Additional Accessibility Resources

Architectural Accessibility Consultations & 
Modular Ramp Program.

Temporary Ramp Loan Program

Modular ramp systems are available for temporary installation by our skilled staff.  If you or someone you know needs a ramp to access their home please call The Finger Lakes Independence Center today.  Our ramp program is open to residents of Tompkins or Schuyler Counties.   A refundable deposit is required.  Currently our Ramp Loan Program is available in part because of grants we have received from the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency and individual donations.

 Accessibility Consultations

Removing architectural barriers is key to creating an inclusive community and supporting people with disabilities to lead independent lives.  We provide assistance to individuals, business owners, schools, and government agencies to help make physical spaces accessible.  We can also review architectural plans prior to construction.

Call Brian at the Finger Lakes Independence Center for more information.

Universal Design

The term “universal design” was coined by the architect Ronald L. Mace to describe the concept of designing all products and the built environment to be aesthetic and usable to the greatest extent possible by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or status in life.
– www.ncsu.edu

Universal design is a broad concept that is defined by The Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University as “the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.”

Sidewalks with curb cuts and doors that automatically open when a person moves near them are examples of universally designed products. They benefit people with disabilities, parents with baby strollers, delivery workers, and others. Human characteristics considered in universal designs may include age, gender, stature, race/ethnicity, culture, native language and learning preference.
– www.washington.edu