The city of Burleson will begin a comprehensive Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) assessment of public right-of-way sidewalks the week of Jan. 20 as part of its ongoing efforts to improve accessibility for all residents and visitors.
The project, led by Kimley-Horn, an engineering, planning and design consulting firm, will evaluate approximately 200 miles of sidewalk within the city. The assessment combines the work of trained assessment technicians with advanced robotic technology to gather detailed engineering data that will help identify sidewalk conditions and potential barriers to accessibility.
The use of robots moving at walking speed allows for precise measurements while keeping human crews out of traffic. Compared with traditional, labor-intensive methods, the robotic technology provides a more cost-efficient way to collect accessibility data while covering a larger area in less time. The robots also capture highly detailed engineering measurements, including slope, travel width, vertical changes and other conditions relevant to ADA standards, with a level of consistency and accuracy that would be difficult to achieve through manual data collection alone. The results will be compiled into an inventory of sidewalk hazards and accessibility concerns to guide future planning and improvements.
“Ensuring our sidewalks are accessible to everyone is a key part of creating a city that serves all residents,” said Director of Public Works Errick Thompson. “This assessment is an important next step in evaluating existing conditions.”
Assessment Details
Start Date: Week of Jan. 20
Conducted By: Kimley-Horn
Technology: Combination of trained assessment technicians and Dax robotic assessment devices
Objective: Identify and evaluate accessibility of public right-of-way sidewalks to ensure ADA compliance
Residents may see assessment teams and robotic equipment operating throughout the city in the coming weeks. Motorists are asked to show the same courtesy they would provide to road maintenance crews. The city anticipates minimal disruption during the assessment and appreciates community cooperation.
The robotic technology used in this project collects engineering data about sidewalks and pedestrian pathways to support ADA compliance. The robots do not capture personal photographs of people, homes or private property. Data will be used only for accessibility evaluation and planning.
For more information about the ADA assessment, contact BTX 311 by calling 817-426-9600, emailing 311@burlesontx.com, visiting www.burlesontx.com/311, or dialing 311 within city limits.
Additional Information