WHY USE ADA TECHNOLOGY?
Traditional methods of conducting ADA inventory assessments in public rights-of-way have often been laborious, imprecise, and infefficient, leading to challenges in accurate data collection and effective planning. Recognizing these challenges, Cole turned to the latest in ADA technology paired with custom-built tools and software.
ADVANCED ADA TECHNOLOGY
Cole embarked on a mission to find a groundbreaking solution that would revolutionize ADA compliance planning for our clients. Our quest led us to the ULIP-ADA™ (Ultra Light Inertial Profiler), a one-of-a-kind sensor and acquisition system developed by Starodub, Inc. under contract with the Federal Highway Administration. This advanced technology was designed to address the shortcomings of traditional inventory processes by providing comprehensive and accurate data collection.
Since its inception in 2013, this groundbreaking technology has undergone continuous updates, solidifying its position as the best practice for ADA data collection. Our approach combines the ULIP mounted on a Segway with custom-built tools for precision and efficient data collection, enabling us to measure approximately 6-10 miles of sidewalk per day accurate to ¼” for vertical deflections and 0.1% for slope measurements, as required by ADA standards.
Cole’s ULIP-ADA technology has assessed 11,000 sidewalk miles in over 30 projects helping our clients across the nation reduce time and labor costs associated with collecting sidewalk inventory. Our unique method goes above and beyond common data collection methods in both productivity and precision. Accurate data is essential, and Cole’s technology for ADA inventory assessments in public rights-of-way positions agencies for long-term success in their ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Planning process.
Moreover, our in-house software further enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of our process, facilitating comprehensive analysis, project prioritization, and cost estimating. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and our expertise, we empower organizations of any size to navigate the complexities of ADA compliance planning with confidence and cost-effectiveness. Our technology is highly scalable, allowing us to manage projects of any size, whether it’s a small city or an entire state. We have the capability to tailor our solutions to meet the specific needs of each project. This flexibility makes us well-equipped to support a wide range of clients, from municipal governments to state agencies, providing them with the tools and expertise needed to achieve ADA compliance efficiently and effectively, regardless of the project’s scale.
The ULIP captures data on run slope, cross slope, sidewalk heaves, deformities, and other inventory items specified by the agency we’re collaborating with. Our proven advanced technology has been cited as Best Practice by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Continuous HD video is taken during the collection process and can be used as future reference for our clients. Lasers are used to detect any sidewalk deformities. We provide all compliant and non-compliant data. Additionally, we’ve developed a custom ramp collection app that covers traffic signals, curb ramps, bus stops, and parking spaces.
CUSTOM ADA TOOLS AND SOFTWARE
By employing the latest in ADA technology and developing our own custom tools and software, we’ve enhanced the assessment process for our clients and our team. If you are looking for an ADA inventory assessment, you can rest assured that with our technology you have chosen a cost-effective route to data collection and planning. At Cole, we continue to research the most accurate and efficient way to collect the specific data required for ADA compliance, and our company continues to stay on the forefront of the latest developments in technology.
Afterall, the greatest risk an agency has is to complete an ADA Self-Evaluation, only to find the accuracy of the evaluation does not meet ADA Standards. This leaves the agency liable for non-compliant facilities that may have been evaluated as compliant with the proper tools. Other ADA inventory assessments typically involve a significant amount of manual data collection, this process is time-consuming and prone to human error. Additionally, the data collected often needs to be manually entered into spreadsheets or other tracking systems, which further increases the risk of inaccuracies and inconsistencies. Cole is proud to lead the charge in leveraging the most innovative technology to promote inclusivity and ensure equal access for all members of our communities.
Why should agencies prioritize ADA compliance now?
It is required by federal regulation, but oddly enough, that is not always a good enough reason for many clients. Many agencies choose to accept the risk and do not understand how large of a threat non-compliance is to their agency, or they might be completely unaware of their requirement to comply. Starting with an ADA Self-Evaluation using the latest technology is the most effective approach.
Most agencies look at ADA compliance and recognize the costs to be compliant. They know that once they begin the self-evaluation process there will be many non-compliant items that will need to be addressed, taking resources away from other city projects or operations. While it is a large and difficult task, it is important to start it on your own terms and control the process. This allows a Title II entity to plan and implement needed efforts on an appropriate timeline in line with their available resources and budget.
It is important to also note the impact that these changes can have on a community. According to the CDC, over 1 in 4 adults in the United States—28.7%—live with some form of disability. This statistic underscores the critical need for accessible public spaces and services.
Ensuring accessibility is not just a legal requirement but a vital step toward inclusivity. Implementing changes that enhance accessibility can dramatically improve the quality of life for a substantial portion of the population.
Why use Cole’s ULIP technology for conducting your ADA inventory assessments?
What truly sets Cole apart is our dedicated team of ADA specialists and our proven and unique technology which allows for efficient and accurate data collection. Leveraging our GIS department and technological advancements, we aim to equip agencies with data that is not only accurate but also manageable and accessible for years to come.
Many firms offer ADA compliance services, but most do so in a limited capacity. Unlike engineering and design firms that only dabble in this area, we deeply understand how the data gathered during a Self-Evaluation informs the development of a transition plan and its practical application by a Title II entity. This expertise ensures that our plans are not only accurate but also user-friendly and can fully integrate with asset management software and databases. Cole excels because we know what it takes to implement a transition plan effectively, recognizing the need to work within the constraints of yearly budgets.
Our practical approach to prioritizing information, coupled with advanced technology for efficient and precise data collection, makes us a leader in this field. Our technology is scalable. We can manage projects from small cities to entire states. We are dynamic. Specific project needs are easily accommodated within our operating capacity. This is due to our technology and our dedicated and sophisticated team.
If you are looking into an ADA assessment and want an effective solution that employs the latest in ADA technology for efficiency, Cole will help you create a plan that works for your organization and timeline.