Penobscot Theatre requests additional accessible space; committee to research feasibility

Anne Krieg, director of community and economic development, reported that the Penobscot Theatre has requested an additional accessible parking space directly in front of its entrance to improve accessibility for patrons with mobility needs.

Krieg said the theater has made the request previously and the committee had deferred action until the advisory group reconvened. “The Penobscot Theatre has asked for another accessible space in front of their doors... there are a number of people with ADA needs that do go to the theater,” Krieg said.

Committee members raised potential conflicts with traffic flow, loading zones and fire access on the hill near the theater. One committee member suggested a nearer, flatter space at the corner of Cross (Middle) and Main as an alternative, while another noted state statute and city rules affect the length and timing of ADA spaces: a handicapped space must be double the existing space length and that special provisions apply during posted hours.

A participant who said they had used a cane added a personal perspective on the importance of proximity: “parking half a block away up the hill is not convenient and oftentimes really challenging,” the participant said.

The committee asked staff to check statutory and operational constraints, consult the fire department as needed, and invite Penobscot Theatre representatives to the next meeting to present specific location and usage needs. No formal action was taken at this meeting.