Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Accessibility topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves ADA ramp and loading-zone work at Playhouse lot; dumpster to be relocated
Summary
Selectmen approved Burns Construction contract to build an ADA-compliant ramp from the Playhouse lot to Elm Street, reconfigure the dumpster area and create a loading zone; project authorized at $812,895 including contingency.
New Canaan — The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved a contract with Burns Construction on Sept. 16 for a new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)‑compliant route from the Playhouse parking lot to Elm Street, reconstruction of the adjacent staircase, relocation and enclosure of dumpsters on the embankment between lots, and a new loading zone. The contract authorization is $738,895 plus a $74,000 contingency for a total of $812,895.
Department of Public Works staff described the work as providing accessible parking spaces, a compliant ramp with properly graded turns for wheelchairs and small delivery vehicles, and improved pedestrian connections to Elm Street. The contractor plans to move the dumpsters into the embankment area to create a safer and cleaner layout; the work also includes a loading zone designed to permit deliveries without blocking Elm Street.
Why it matters: The Playhouse area currently has constrained access and a narrow staircase route; the ramp and loading zone are intended to both improve accessibility and reduce delivery vehicle congestion and sidewalk obstruction on Elm Street. Staff acknowledged there will be temporary closures and staging in the Playhouse lot during construction and said the contractor will sequence work to limit the duration of full closures and keep performance periods short to allow the Playhouse to remain accessible for events.
Board action: The motion to contract with Burns Construction for $738,895 plus contingency passed unanimously.
Implementation notes: Public Works said the contractor plans to begin with the dumpster relocation to create staging area, proceed from Elm Street upward, and complete the ramp and stairs before Thanksgiving if weather permits. Staff will coordinate communications to merchants and theater patrons and provide plan displays at the Playhouse and in a public newsletter.
