Description

I previously reported this problem (almost a week ago). But I have received no response from Permits, Inspection, and Planning. I am requesting that this be forwarded to the city's ADA compliance officer, and to anyone else with oversight over matters such as this, and that action be taken promptly.

This is a blatant violation of the ADA, a misuse of a public sidewalk, a hazard to all pedestrians (not just the disabled), and simply a violation of common sense. I'm all for outdoor seating (like near the front door of the establishment) when there is sufficient room for it. But this is not OK. I cannot possibly imagine that the city has authorized this.

Nearly the entire pedestrian through zone, which should be at least five to seven feet wide, and under no circumstances should be less than four, has been taken for this private establishment's seating. What remains is a narrow strip roughly three feet wide to the curb. That not only obstructs wheelchair access but presents a serious risk to a person in one. The rope, which is tied to a city sign at one end, is at or below knee level (in fact, at times, the establishment allows it to rest on the ground), posing a trip hazard, especially to a visually impaired person. In addition, the planters to which the rope is attached are not affixed to the ground. Instead they are precariously balanced on stacked cement tiles. The whole thing is both illegal and a serious accident waiting to happen. It endangers not only those attempting to pass by, but also patrons of the establishment. Please address it before someone gets badly hurt. Thank you.