Capitol due for $400,000 in accessibility upgrades to meet ADA requirements

Idaho’s state C apitol is due for $400,000 in accessibility upgrades, to bring the renovated historic structure in line with requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act. They range from new wheelchair accessible seating areas in the public galleries of the House and Senate, to improved ramps and handrails, to new signs.

A complaint two years ago led the U.S. Department of Justice to look into accessibility in Idaho’s Statehouse. “There were 110 areas they wanted us to look at,” said Senate President Pro-Tem Brent Hill, R-Rexburg. “Some were major, and some were minor.” He said, “We hope by the end of the year to have a signed agreement that we’re in compliance, or have a plan in place to be in compliance.” You can read my full report in my Sunday column here .