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San Rafael installs tent platforms and ramp after wheelchair user requests access at local encampment
Summary
City staff said they installed tent platforms and are adding a ramp after a homeless resident switched to a motorized wheelchair and requested access; staff noted platform thresholds and placement create accessibility challenges and said they will consider relocating the platform closer to stable paths.
The commission heard that San Rafael has installed tent platforms and will add a ramp after a homeless resident who uses a motorized wheelchair requested access to her tent platform.
Staff reported the city has erected approximately 40–60 tent platforms at a fenced site, provided temporary power and accessible portable restrooms with hand‑washing stations, and arranged occasional portable showers. According to staff, this is the first request to make a platform wheelchair‑accessible; staff said they are seeking a portable or foldable ramp solution and may relocate the resident’s platform to a more stable location closer to an accessible pathway.
Staff cautioned that the existing platform design includes a lip or threshold that makes full accessibility challenging without additional hardware. Commissioners asked about the design and whether portable ramps would be suitable; staff said they are exploring options that are lightweight and portable and that vendors occasionally supply foldable metal ramps that work for low rises.
What’s next: staff said they will follow up at the site to verify portable restroom placement and shower accessibility, coordinate training and maintenance with service providers, and install a ramp for the resident who requested access.
