Penobscot Theatre requests additional accessible space; committee asks staff to check feasibility

The Penobscot Theatre requested an additional accessible parking space directly in front of its entrance to improve access for patrons with mobility needs.

Anne Krieg, director of community and economic development, said the theatre "has asked for another accessible space in front of their doors" because the existing configuration sits on a hill and can be difficult for patrons with mobility limitations. The request was described as a longstanding item the theatre had raised previously.

Committee members asked practical questions about traffic flow, loading zones and whether converting an existing accessible space nearby (on flatter ground at Cross and Main/Middle Street) would be preferable. One committee member noted the difficulty of accessing an ADA space on a steep slope and suggested a nearby flat spot might be more appropriate.

Staff cited statutory and ordinance constraints for accessible spaces, noting a handicap space is required to be wider than the existing space and that the enhanced width and some time-limit rules apply between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. "...the statute state statute, city ordinance is that the handicap, space is double whatever the existing space. So it's not just and that's only from 8 to 5," a staff member explained, and recommended homework before a final decision.

The committee did not grant or deny the request at the meeting. Members agreed to ask the theatre to attend a future meeting, consult the fire and public-safety departments about traffic and loading impacts, and verify statutory requirements and signage or time-limit implications before a formal recommendation is made.