Making Swimming Pools Accessible for All

Though the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been in place for two decades, accessibility is an ongoing issue. The Department of Justice has indicated that all government and private building owners are required to ensure that there are no architectural barriers that prevent a person with a disability from fully utilizing the building. Based on a 2010 revision of federal guidelines, which extended the ADA to cover recreational facilities, the Justice Department mandate will extend beyond the building.

Of particular interest to the hospitality industry and municipalities will be the mandate to install wheelchair lifts in swimming pools. Two South Carolina Senators have already introduced a bill that would prevent the Attorney General from enforcing the rules covering swimming pools and the Hotel Association has asked the Justice Department for a delay in implementing the rules. The Justice Department remains strong on the issue, however, even if it means seeing closed pools as the summer months approach.

Thanks to Jessica Brent