Reli-Abilities

Hello Kenny & Co. readers,

My name is Scott. I am 43 years old and the father of two children, 17 & 19 years old. I am also a volunteer Access Specialist. I have been advocating for better access out in the communities for almost 8 years. I have attended the Massachusetts Office for Disability Community Access Monitor training. I worked as an Access Specialist for Stavros Center For Independent Living, which gave me valuable experience in a program called Access Plus.

It was an honor this past weekend to received an email request to join Kenny & Co. and offer my advice or recommendations on the process of eliminating architectural barriers via the complaint process.

So many access barriers are encountered every day out in the communities; it is important to understand the resources that are out there to resolve them. My specialty is in the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (AAB) rules & regulations. The AAB plays a key role in the process of ensuring that proper access is created at any public invite facility in the Commonwealth and often is more stringent than ADAAG (American’s with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines or often referred to as the “ADA”). I have filed approximately 120 complaints with the AAB which has created a significant amount of access at those facilities.

The AAB uses a code that is often referred to as 521 CMR (Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulation). This code is triggered by renovations/reconstruction/work performed or any new construction. The vital tool to determine jurisdiction for the AAB is the all important building permits issued when alterations or changes take place to any public building.

I look forward to providing assistance to all individuals with disabilities and their families, in creating better access to everyday daily activities that so many take for granted.

Scott Ricker
Access Specialist
Email: ptbagger@verizon.net