meeting notice and agenda - san diego association of ... · monday, march 21, 2016 . 10 a.m. to 12...

MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COUNCILThe Social Services Transportation Advisory Council may take action on any item appearing on this agenda.

Monday, March 21, 2016

10 a.m. to 12 noon

SANDAG 7th Floor Conference Room 401 B Street, Suite 800 San Diego, CA 92101

North County Transit District Board Room - Teleconference 810 Mission Avenue Oceanside, CA 92054

Staff Contact: Audrey Porcella (619) [email protected]

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

• AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: DRAFT FY 2017ACCESS PLAN

• MID-COAST TROLLEY EXECUTIVE DRIVE STATIONREFINEMENTS

SANDAG offices are accessible by public transit. Phone 511 or see 511sd.com for route information.

Secure bike parking is available in the building garage off Fourth Avenue.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), SANDAG will accommodate persons who require assistance in order to participate in SANDAG meetings. If such assistance is required, please contact SANDAG at (619) 699-1900

at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.

To request this document or related reports in an alternative format, please call (619) 699-1900, (619) 699-1904 (TTY), or fax (619) 699-1905.

Rev. 06252015

Welcome to SANDAG. Members of the public may speak to the Working Group on any item at the time the Working Group is considering the item. Please complete a Speaker’s Slip, and then present the slip to the Clerk of the Working Group. Members of the public may address the Working Group on any issue under the agenda item entitled Public Comments/Communications/Member Comments. Public speakers are limited to three minutes or less per person unless otherwise directed by the Chair. The Working Group may take action on any item appearing on the agenda.

Public comments regarding the agenda can be sent to SANDAG via [email protected]. Please include the agenda item, your name, and your organization. Email comments should be received no later than 12 noon, two working days prior to the meeting. Any handouts, presentations, or other materials from the public intended for distribution at the meeting should be received by the Clerk of the Working Group no later than 12 noon, two working days prior to the meeting.

In order to keep the public informed in an efficient manner and facilitate public participation, SANDAG also provides access to all agenda and meeting materials online at www.sandag.org/meetings. Additionally, interested persons can sign up for e-notifications via our e-distribution list at either the SANDAG website or by sending an email request to [email protected].

SANDAG operates its programs without regard to race, color, and national origin in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. SANDAG has developed procedures for investigating and tracking Title VI complaints and the procedures for filing a complaint are available to the public upon request. Questions concerning SANDAG nondiscrimination obligations or complaint procedures should be directed to SANDAG General Counsel, John Kirk, at (619) 699-1997 or [email protected]. Any person who believes himself or herself or any specific class of persons to be subjected to discrimination prohibited by Title VI also may file a written complaint with the Federal Transit Administration.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), SANDAG will accommodate persons who require assistance in order to participate in SANDAG meetings. If such assistance is required, please contact SANDAG at (619) 699-1900 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting. To request this document or related reports in an alternative format, please call (619) 699-1900, (619) 699-1904 (TTY), or fax (619) 699-1905.

SANDAG agenda materials can be made available in alternative languages. To make a request call (619) 699-1900 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.

Los materiales de la agenda de SANDAG están disponibles en otros idiomas. Para hacer una solicitud, llame al (619) 699-1900 al menos 72 horas antes de la reunión.

如有需要, 我们可以把SANDAG议程材料翻译成其他語言.

请在会议前至少 72 小时打电话 (619) 699-1900 提出请求.

SANDAG offices are accessible by public transit. Phone 511 or see 511sd.com for route information. Bicycle parking is available in the parking garage of the SANDAG offices.

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http://www.sdcommute.com/

SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COUNCIL Monday, March 21, 2016

ITEM NO. RECOMMENDATION

1. INTRODUCTIONS

+2. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES APPROVE

The Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC) is asked to reviewand approve the minutes from its January 10, 2016, meeting.

3. PUBLIC COMMENTS/COMMUNICATIONS AND MEMBER COMMENTS

Members of the public shall have the opportunity to address the SSTAC onany issue within the jurisdiction of SANDAG that is not on this agenda.Anyone desiring to speak shall reserve time by completing a “Request toSpeak” form and giving it to the meeting coordinator prior to speaking. Publicspeakers should notify the meeting coordinator if they have a handout fordistribution to working group members. Public speakers are limited to threeminutes or less per person. SSTAC members also may provide information andannouncements under this agenda item.

REPORTS

+4. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: DRAFT FY 2017 ACCESS PLAN INFORMATION

The Council is asked to review and comment on SANDAG’s Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Access Plan. As required by Title II, SANDAG performed a self-evaluation to examine its activities and services, identify problems or physical barriers that may limit accessibility to such activities and services by persons with disabilities, and describe potential compliance solutions in this Access Plan.

5. MID-COAST TROLLEY EXECUTIVE DRIVE STATION REFINEMENTS INFORMATION

Staff will report on proposed refinements of pedestrian access points alongGenesee Avenue to the future Mid-Coast Trolley station platform at ExecutiveDrive. These refinements allow the new pedestrian bridge to be placed at abetter location while addressing comments by the California Public UtilityCommission.

6. STAFF REPORT

Staff will report on notable activity within the SANDAG Short Range Transitsection.

7. TRANSIT OPERATOR UPDATE INFORMATION

Representatives from the Metropolitan Transit System and North CountyTransit District will provide an update on proposed service changes and anynotable activity.

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8. FULL ACCESS AND COORDINATED TRANSPORTATION UPDATE INFORMATION

The Council will hear a verbal report on the most recent developments of FullAccess and Coordinated Transportation Update and the Council on Accessand Mobility.

9. ADJOURNMENT INFORMATION

The next SSTAC meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 16, 2016, at 10 a.m.

+ next to an agenda item indicates an attachment

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San Diego Association of Governments

SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

March 21, 2016 AGENDA ITEM NO.: 2

Action Requested: APPROVE

JANUARY 20, 2016, MEETING MINUTES File Number 3320100

The meeting of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC) was called to order by Chair Meredith Morgenroth (Jewish Family Service [JFS]) at 10:03 a.m.

1. INTRODUCTIONS

2. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES (APPROVE)

Action: Upon a motion from Ruben Ceballos (Access to Independence) and a second by Sharlene Ornelas (At-Large Citizen Member-Seat B) the minutes of the November 16, 2015, SSTAC meeting were approved with minimal changes.

Yes: Jorge Rivas (Special Interest Citizen Member-Seat B Alternate), Mr. Ceballos, Ms. Ornelas, Ms. Morgenroth, Denita Harris (Recovery Innovations), David Jackson (Citizen Member-Seat B), Mary Cory (International Rescue Committee), Oswaldo Meneses (Metropolitan Transit System [MTS]-Fixed Route), Meagan Schmidt (Full Access & Coordinated Transportation [FACT]-Seat B) and No: None; Abstain: Tamara Airhart (Special Interest Citizen Member-Seat B); Absent: FACT-Seat A, Special Interest Citizen Member-Seat A, At Large Citizen Member-Seat A, North County Transit District (NCTD).

3. PUBLIC COMMENTS/COMMUNICATIONS AND MEMBER COMMENTS

Ruben Ceballos (Access to Independence) asked if bikes can go on the low floor of the trolley.

Sharlene Ornelas (At-Large Citizen Member-Seat B) commented on fare machines in Tucson that talks to you. Brian Lane (SANDAG) questioned if these were on the buses. Ms. Ornelas confirmed that this feature was on the bus and senior and disabled passengers have to show identification.

Ms. Ornelas added that the front car on the trolley is hard to see because the wrapping of the front car, unlike the rest of the trolley, is not bright red. There is a similar problem with visibility of buses that are wrapped. Tamara Airhart (Special Interest Citizen Member-Seat B) added that the wrapping covers the buttons to open the trolley doors, which makes it difficult to tell if it is a button or a part of the design. Ms. Airhart proposed framing the buttons with the wrap design.

Ms. Ornelas highlighted inconsistencies with the COASTER in North County and San Diego. The COASTER ticket to North County provides a free connecting ride on NCTD BREEZE. The reverse trip does not provide a free connecting ride to MTS bus.

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Jorge Rivas (Special Interest Citizen Member-Seat B Alternate) noted a KPBS newsfeed story on Compass Cards trying to increase ridership within a few months. Mr. Rivas questioned how this would be accomplished for people who only ride transit occasionally. Ms. Ornelas added that paratransit should have an option to pay ahead of time as well as a phone number to dial and receive refunds for over-payment.

Mr. Lane explained that MTS is currently waiting to hire a Fare Systems Coordinator and adopt new technology that would include “smarter” fare technology, such as stored-value. However, it would cost MTS money to implement this technology and MTS is currently experiencing fiscal constraints. Mr. Rivas asked if the fare technology would roll over to MTS Access. Oswaldo Meneses (MTS – Fixed Route) responded that they would like to invest in technology that lasts a while. Mr. Lane added that they would like to have a system that can be updated easily as new technology becomes available.

Ms. Ornelas mentioned that SunTran, the transit operator in Phoenix, allows passengers to make one transfer within two hours of a transit trip.

REPORTS

4. FUNDING MEASURE (INFORMATION)

Rob Rundle (SANDAG) reported on the SANDAG Board of Directors considering a potential funding measure to be placed on the November 2016 ballot. The potential measure is intended to fund implementation of the recently adopted San Diego Forward: The Regional Plan.

Ms. Ornelas commented on the name “TransNet” explaining that it sounds like the funds all go toward transit, but the funds do not. This is unlike Los Angeles’s sales tax measure.

Mr. Rivas questioned if the amount of funding was $18 million or $18 billion and if 1/6 of funding would go toward transit. Mr. Rundle clarified that the amount of funding would be $18 billion and the allocation of spending has not been decided. A habitat conservation plan would be incorporated as a part of the funding as committed in the TransNet ordinance.

Mr. Rivas asked if investment in accessibility was a possibility. Mr. Rundle explained that voters want specification towards a project and accountability. Mr. Lane added that Senior Mini-Grants and Senior/Disabled/Medicare funding provide subsidies. Mr. Lane stressed that the Board of Directors needs to hear from the public on its priorities, and whether a sales tax measure is put on the ballot comes down to polling. SANDAG will host telephone-town hall meetings in the future to hear public comments. Mr. Ceballos asked for more information. Audrey Porcella (SANDAG) announced she will be sending an email with information. Ms. Ornelas asked for more information regarding the teleconference. Mr. Rundle informed SSTAC that the telephone number is on the SANDAG website along with the access code. Meagan Schmidt (FACT-Seat A) inquired about the relevance of the sales tax measure to the Quality of Life initiative. Mr. Rundle clarified that it is the same measure but the official name is still pending.

Mary Cory (International Rescue Committee) questioned if there would be any consideration in lowering fares. Mr. Rundle explained that transit funding would be a large part of the measure and the Board of Directors will decide what is equitable since the measure cannot fund all transit projects.

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Ms. Airhart mentioned having a link regarding the measure on the MTS website would be helpful.

Ms. Ornelas inquired about the font size of the paper survey.

5. CHESTERFIELD DRIVE CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS (DISCUSSION)

Bruce Smith (SANDAG) presented a design plan for the Chesterfield Drive Crossing in Encinitas. This project is a part of the larger San Elijo Lagoon Double-Track Project and will provide pedestrian crossing improvements and ensure Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance.

Ms. Ornelas inquired about the length of the ADA path in comparison to the path for an ambulatory person. She noted that the law allows for a maximum distance of 200 feet difference between ADA paths and paths for ambulatory persons. Mr. Ceballos asked why there would be two paths. Ms. Ornelas recommended forcing everyone to travel on the same path.

Mr. Rivas questioned if the City of Encinitas had a south side crossing. Ms. Airhart stated that the area is very scary for the visually impaired and suggested having something in the concrete to serve as a guide. Mr. Smith explained there would be twelve feet of cobble along the edge of the sidewalk between the road and sidewalk. Ms. Ornelas questioned the type of cobble and if it would be raised or flat. Pete d’Ablaing (SANDAG) informed SSTAC that the cobble would be raised bevel with pebbles and resin similar to what is used on pool decks. Mr. Smith added that pre-cast panels would be used.

Israel Martinez (San Diego Center for the Blind) asked if there would be audible warning at the traffic signals. George Karayiannis (HDR) commented that the traffic signals have audible warning. Mr. Martinez liked the design and thought it kept a direct path of travel. He suggested putting the traffic signal button in line with the path of travel and within reach of pedestrians.

Ms. Ornelas commented that the designed path seemed out of the way. Wayne Landon (At Large Citizen Member- Seat C Alternate) noted that he would rather have a separate path for ambulatory. Ms. Cory concurred and added that she liked the wide sidewalk because ambulatory people are often carrying large things such as surf boards or pushing strollers. Mr. Rivas asked if the six foot path could be made wider by two feet. Mr. Karayiannis explained that he did look at that but it would negatively impact the slope.

6. COORDINATED PLAN NEXT STEPS (DISCUSSION)

Lisa Madsen (SANDAG) summarized comments received at the Coordinated Plan focus groups. Ms. Morgenroth mentioned how JFShas been able to bridge the technology gap by providing their clients with transportation through Uber. Mr. Rivas asked how this was achieved. Ms. Morgenroth explained that JFS has a business account with Uber. JFS pays for the trip with a credit card on file with Uber and the client is asked for a ride-based donation.

Ms. Madsen asked for volunteers for the Coordinated Plan Ad Hoc Group, which will meet regularly to discuss how the Council can assist in updates to the Coordinated Plan. In May, there will be a public meeting to solicit comments from the public regarding unmet transportation needs.

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7. STAFF REPORT (INFORMATION)

Audrey Porcella (SANDAG) reported on the status of SANDAG’s specialized transportation grant programs. Ms. Porcella explained that Form 700 would be available electronically as well at the next SSTAC meeting in March. She will send an email with further information.

8. TRANSIT OPERATOR UPDATE (INFORMATION)

Oswaldo Meneses (MTS-Fixed Route) informed the Council that there would be some changes along Route 950 as of January 31, 2016. Route 950 will see an increase in service from Otay Mesa to Iris Avenue Transit Station. Route 905 will be modified to accommodate this change.

Mr. Meneses explained that cameras will continue to be added to paratransit. Currently 20 percent of the fleet has cameras installed.

According to Mr. Meneses, as of February 13, 2016, a person who refuses to give up their seat to a senior or individual with disability in the designated seating area in transit vehicles will be given a citation.

Ms. Ornelas explained that she has been asked to move, but other seats have a bar below the seat, which does not accommodate her service animal. Mr. Rivas asked if the bars could be modified. Mr. Meneses explained that the bars hold the seat up but some buses are different. He added that Ms. Ornelas should not move because she is qualified to sit in the designated seating. David Jackson (Citizen Member-Seat B) asked how the citations would be distributed. Mr. Meneses informed SSTAC that an MTS security officer would be called by the bus driver and would meet the bus at the next stop.

Johnny Dunning (NCTD-Fixed Route) announced a modification of routes as of February 7, 2016, including connections to the SPRINTER. Mr. Dunning informed SSTAC of a proposal to eliminate Route 341 and Route 342, which was approved.

9. FULL ACCESS AND COORDINATED TRANSPORTATION UPDATE (INFORMATION)

Ms. Schmidt announced that FACT celebrated its 10th anniversary on December 10, 2015. Ms. Schmidt also announced that the Council on Access and Mobility is having a meeting at Caltrans on February 9, 2016, where Ms. Morgenroth will be presenting on JFS’s experiences using Uber and Lyft. There will be a California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CalACT) conference March 28 through March 31, 2016, in La Jolla.

10. ADJOURNMENT (INFORMATION)

Ms. Morgenroth adjourned the meeting at 11:25 a.m.

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Meeting Start Time: 10:03 a.m. Meeting Adjourned Time: 11:25 a.m.

SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING ATTENDANCE FOR January 20, 2016

JURISDICTION/ORGANIZATION NAME ATTENDING COMMENTS

Special Interest Citizen Member (Seat A)

Clytie Koeher No

Clive Richard (Vice Chair), Alternate

No

Special Interest Citizen Member (Seat B) Tamara Airhart Yes

Jorge Rivas, Alternate Yes

At-Large Citizen Member (Seat A) Judy Stern No

At-Large Citizen Member (Seat B) Sharlene Ornelas Yes

At-Large Citizen Member (Seat C) Tony San Nicolas No Excused

At-Large Citizen Member (Seats A - C) Alternates

Ted Kagan, 1st Alt. No Excused

David Jackson, 2nd Alt. Yes

Wayne Landon, 3rd Alt. Yes

Jewish Family Service Meredith Morgenroth (Chair) Yes

San Diego Center for the Blind Israel Martinez Yes Not present at time of

voting

Access to Independence Ruben Ceballos Yes

Recovery Innovations Denita Harris Yes

International Rescue Committee Mary Cory Yes

Full Access & Coordinated Transportation (Seat A)

Arun Prem No

Full Access & Coordinated Transportation (Seat B)

Meagan Schmidt Yes

Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Fixed Route

Oswaldo Meneses Yes

MTS Paratransit Todd Lordson No Excused

North County Transit District (NCTD) Fixed Route

Johnny Dunning Yes Not present at time of

voting

NCTD Paratransit Jason Shaw No

OTHER ATTENDEES SANDAG STAFF MEMBERS LISTED BELOW

Annie Gottwig (Caltrans) Audrey Porcella

Lisa Madsen

Brian Lane

Daniel Veeh

Rob Rundle

Bruce Smith

Pete d’Ablaing

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San Diego Association of Governments401 B Street, Suite 800

San Diego, CA 92101

Americans with Disabilities Act2017 ACCESS PLAN

Agenda Item No. 4 SSTAC

March 21, 2016

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Table of Contents

Overview of the ADA and SANDAG Responsibilities ......................................................... 1

SANDAG Compliance Plan for FY 2017 ................................................................................ 3

Compliance for Existing and Constructed Facilities ............................................................. 6

Compliance with ADA for Public Business, Outreach, and Meetings ............................... 6

Compliance with ADA as an Employer ............................................................................. 10

Complaint Procedures ........................................................................................................ 12

i SANDAG AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT FY 2017 ACCESS PLAN 11

1 SANDAG AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT FY 2017 ACCESS PLAN

Overview of the ADA and SANDAG Responsibilities Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted on July 26, 1990 prohibits state and local governments from discriminating against persons with disabilities or from excluding participation in or denying benefits of programs, services, or activities to persons with disabilities.

As required by Title II, SANDAG performed a self-evaluation to examine its activities and services, identify problems or physical barriers that may limit accessibility to such activities and services by persons with disabilities, and describe potential compliance solutions in this ADA Access Plan. The self-evaluation is reviewed annually by SANDAG staff. The ADA requires that SANDAG prepare the Access Plan to describe the process for making any changes to make SANDAG activities and services accessible as identified in the self-evaluation. This Access Plan is prepared pursuant to Title II and is intended to outline the methods by which changes will be or have been made to implement Title II's non-discrimination policies.

As in the past, SANDAG will continue to work with individuals with disabilities to find a mutually acceptable way to mitigate barriers to existing programs and facilities. This Access Plan is intended to serve as a step toward achieving this goal. The section of this Access Plan entitled “SANDAG Compliance Plan for FY 2017 describes the additional actions SANDAG intends to undertake as updates to its last Access Plan. The remaining sections of this Access Plan summarize the steps SANDAG already has in place to implement its previous Access Plans.

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ADA Compliance Officer

The Director of Administration has been designated as the SANDAG ADA Compliance Officer. The following tasks, duties, and responsibilities are included in the job description of the Director of Administration: oversee SANDAG compliance with disability discrimination laws, including but not limited to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Review of Organizational Policies

The Office of General Counsel has reviewed the SANDAG Employee Handbook as well as all other organizational policies for compliance with the disability discrimination law. Documents are updated as needed to ensure continued compliance.

Reasonable Accommodation Requests

All relevant SANDAG staff members have been trained on the procedure for handling a reasonable accommodation request from employees, directors, and members of the public. The Human Resources Manager oversees SANDAG’s responses to all employee accommodation requests and consults with the ADA Compliance Officer and Office of General Counsel when needed. The ADA Compliance Officer oversees SANDAG’s responses to requests for accommodation from non-employees and consults with the Office of General Counsel on such requests when needed.

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SANDAG Compliance Plan for FY 2017 Using the section of the self-evaluation containing recommended areas of change, as well as recommendations from the Federal Transit Authority (FTA) from its April 2015 ADA Compliance Review, SANDAG has identified additional methods for meeting or exceeding those recommendations, which will be implemented as part of this Access Plan as set forth in this section.

Input from the Community with Disabilities

This Access Plan and future updates will be provided to the Social Services Transportation Advisory Committee (SSTAC) for review and comment. The SSTAC membership includes persons with disabilities from the local area who are not employees of SANDAG. The SSTAC is asked to assist SANDAG on its self-evaluation and Access Plan in addition to assisting SANDAG with evaluating the impact of proposed projects and public programs on the community with disabilities, including public safety and emergency management; appropriate methods of communication, including electronic technology; and website accessibility. SANDAG documents participation by persons with disabilities in order to identify appropriate resolutions on ADA-related matters.

Accessible Documents

In the summer of 2015 staff responsible for formatting documents for the public received training on Section 508 standards. SANDAG will be hiring a consultant in FY 2017 to further identify areas of improvement and to assist with developing an implementation plan.

Accessibility of Existing Facilities

SANDAG leases 104,000 square feet at 401 B Street, San Diego, California. In February 2015, building management began modernizing the elevator system in the building’s towers and parking structure. Full elevator modernization is expected to be 100% complete by the end of 2016. SANDAG has regular meetings with building management to address questions or concerns on ADA-related matters regarding visual, audible, and touch features of the new elevator system. Although the entire system is ADA compliant, our conversations have resulted in adjustments being made to audible messaging volumes as well as consideration to modify “lobby” call buttons on tower floors to be easier to recognize.

The toll road operations center located at 1129 La Media Road, San Diego, California, recently conducted a space assessment in efforts to determine if off-site services can be consolidated to the La Media location. The building was built in 2007 in accordance with ADA requirements then in effect and is approximately 20,000 square feet. As a result of the space assessment, it has been determined that several walls will be moved to expand workspace availability. Proposed alterations will not affect the usability of the space, the path of travel, nor the primary function of the building. As the project moves forward, proposed modifications will be monitored and when required, be completed according to ADA technical guidelines.

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Compliance with ADA for Public Business, Outreach, and Meetings

The Director of Administration is the agency-wide ADA Coordinator and disseminates necessary contact information in various forums to the public, agency customers, vendors, and contractors; in public reception areas; and on the SANDAG website.

SANDAG has a link on its Public Information Office homepage to the ADA program/policy page that specifically includes ADA program information.

SANDAG provides specific ADA training to staff in spring 2015 and will provide additional training every two years to update staff on roles and responsibilities with regard to ADA implementation.

SANDAG Board Policy No. 009 includes add statements regarding effective communication, making reasonable modifications to SANDAG policies and programs, and not placing surcharges on modifications or auxiliary aids and services.

The SANDAG website notifies the public of TTD/TTY access to ensure that persons with disabilities are provided an appropriate phone number to call for any issue. The availability of SANDAG TTY equipment is included in a notice in the SANDAG lobby areas at 401 B Street to inform the public. The TTY equipment is provided at the 401 B Street location and staff has been instructed to include the TTY phone number on all documents where phone numbers are provided to the public for specific information on the agency's programs and services. A schedule of periodic equipment checks has been developed to ensure that all assisted listening devices and TTY equipment are in working order (i.e., included in routine physical or ergonomic inspections). Periodic training will be provided to SANDAG staff to ensure adequate knowledge of appropriate communication methods, resources, and etiquette when providing services to persons with disabilities.

At the 1129 La Media location, TTY equipment is installed with procedures similar to those established at 401 B Street.

Website

SANDAG has a work plan to fully update its main website (www.sandag.org) and train relevant information technology staff and webpage contributors on accessibility features consistent with Version 2.0 of Web Content Accessibility guidelines (WCAG), released on December 11, 2008.

At this time, SANDAG websites are at an 80% or better compliance rate with ADA requirements. With over 20 external websites at various levels of compliance, it is expected remediation efforts to reach 100% compliance will take one to two years to review and modify all of SANDAG’s websites. Remediation work began in the second quarter of FY 2014 and continued throughout FY 2015 and FY 2016. Staff continues to work toward 100% compliance.

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Publications and Materials

The public will be notified when the Access Plan and updates to the Plan are available for review, and how to provide comments to SANDAG regarding these documents.

All written and electronic publications will be available upon request in accessible formats for persons with visual and hearing disabilities.

Complaint Procedures

Training has been provided to staff to increase awareness of SANDAG Board Policy No. 009, which describes procedures for handling external ADA matters.

An ADA-specific complaint form is provided for the public to use. The goal of using the separate form is to avoid confusion and to maintain consistency and integrity about the type of information gathered to track and investigate an ADA inquiry, grievance, or complaint.

The complaint form and grievance procedure are available in alternate formats to assure accessibility by persons with sensory impairments.

Staff training on the ADA complaint procedure for non-employees will be provided at the time of hire for those staff engaged with the public and repeated with updates at least every two years to ensure knowledge of updated regulations, policies and processes, tools, and resources. SANDAG also will ensure consistency in training regarding practices and procedures, including documentation of complaints, to prevent duplication of efforts and costs.

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Compliance for Existing and Constructed Facilities

ADA Building Compliance Survey for 401 B Street, San Diego, California

An ADA compliance survey was prepared by the Irvine Company building management for the SANDAG main offices. This document was reviewed by the SANDAG Americans with Disabilities Coordinator in November 2013 and establishes compliance with the building accessibility requirements of Title II of the ADA for all SANDAG office space. Items reviewed included the notation of adequate parking spaces for persons with disabilities, lobby doors falling within ADA pull requirements, ease of elevator access, and the inclusion of emergency assistance procedures for the physically impaired.

ADA Compliance Survey for Other SANDAG Locations

The SANDAG offices located at 1129 La Media Road, San Diego, as well as most other offices used by staff as project or construction site offices separate from 401 B Street, were constructed in accordance with existing ADA requirements at the time. Appropriate SANDAG staff has been provided legal advice on ADA requirements applicable to facilities used by the public, used solely by staff without disabilities, used by staff with accommodation needs, or any combination thereof to ensure facilities used by SANDAG meet all accessibility requirements.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

The Business and Facilities Services Manager has reviewed the emergency evacuation procedures implemented by building management at Wells Fargo Plaza and deems them to be compliant. Training of all staff on emergency evacuation procedures occurs on an annual basis. Each floor of the building where SANDAG staff work has an assigned floor warden trained specifically to assist individuals with disabilities during an emergency evacuation.

ADA Compliance on Facilities Constructed by SANDAG

SANDAG constructs buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs, and related transportation facilities that must comply with ADA requirements and various state codes created to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities.

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Compliance with ADA for Public Business, Outreach, and Meetings The ADA emphasis is on program accessibility. One aspect of making programs physically accessible to persons with disabilities is through structural modifications to SANDAG facilities. SANDAG has many public meetings at its facilities and in the community and encourages participation by the public. Therefore, SANDAG also has conducted a self-evaluation of its programs and procedures with regard to public contact. Public contact is typically defined as interaction between staff member(s) and member(s) of the general public. To ensure accessibility, various types of public contact are listed below:

Telephone

SANDAG receives numerous calls on a daily basis requesting information on a wide range of topics. TTY equipment is available and relevant SANDAG staff has been trained on its use when requests are received. The public is informed of the availability of the TTY equipment in public notices, agendas, public outreach materials, and on the SANDAG website.

Internet

SANDAG provides access to various types of information via its website. The public is able to obtain information regarding SANDAG programs, services, job openings, news and updates, contracting opportunities, and reports. The website is maintained consistent with ADA requirements to ensure it is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Email

SANDAG provides information to the public through requests via email. The public is able to obtain information regarding SANDAG programs, services, job openings, news and updates, contracting opportunities, and reports by emailing [email protected].

Request of Auxiliary Aids by the Public

SANDAG provides notification to the public through statements on all public meeting agendas and announcements of the process for requesting auxiliary aids. Upon request, the following assistive services and devices may be made available (this list is not meant to be all-inclusive): large font type documents, documents on tape or in Braille, readers for individuals with visual impairments to review all pertinent material distributed on specific meeting agenda items, amplification or listening devices for individuals participating in meetings organized by SANDAG, interpreters, audio and/or written transcripts from meetings, and SANDAG-produced videos.

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Depictions of Individuals with Disabilities

To ensure the public is aware that SANDAG programs are inclusive of persons with disabilities, efforts are made to include individuals with disabilities in graphic depictions showing participants in SANDAG activities.

All informational brochures, booklets, and fliers distributed to the public contain the following or similar statement to provide notice of the public’s right to seek accommodation:

“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this document is available in alternate formats by contacting the SANDAG ADA Coordinator at (619) 699-1900 or (619) 699-1904 (TTY).”

Counter Height Accommodation

Where counter heights are too high to be accessible, an alternate transaction area has been identified, and clipboards are provided as an assistive device.

Advising All Individuals of SANDAG ADA Processes and Resources

SANDAG takes steps to ensure all individuals - employees, applicants, and the public are advised of the requirements of ADA, and of the process and resources used by SANDAG to make services, activities, and programs accessible.

Accessible Public Meetings

Public meetings are a part of SANDAG daily operations. Some meetings are formal and publicly noticed. Others are working sessions focusing on project management. Some examples are: Board of Directors’ meetings, policy committee meetings, workshops and seminars, project meetings, pre-proposal meetings, advisory, task group, focus group, or ad hoc meetings, and community forums. Efforts are taken to ensure that all public meetings are reasonably accessible to persons with disabilities.

From time to time SANDAG meetings are held off-site. All relevant employees have been trained concerning the need to investigate sites where training or business will be conducted prior to the event to ensure the location is located in proximity to public transit if possible and is accessible to persons with disabilities.

SANDAG also co-hosts public meetings with partner agencies, such as Caltrans, local municipalities, and regional transit agencies. SANDAG adheres to the same standards of accessibility when conducting meetings in these co-hosted forums.

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Notification of Accessibility at Public Meetings

SANDAG agendas contain the following statement:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), SANDAG will accommodate persons who require assistance in order to participate in SANDAG meetings. If such assistance is required, please contact SANDAG at (619) 699-1900 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting. To request this document or related reports in an alternative format, please call (619) 699-1900, (619) 699-1904 (TTY), or fax (619) 699-1905.

Accessibility at Public Events

Efforts to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities at SANDAG public events include the following as appropriate: ADA accessible port-a-potties, ramps where applicable, proximity to public transit, designated parking spaces for those with disabilities, temporary transportation options such as golf carts to provide convenient access to event venues, sign language interpreters, and other assistance, as requested.

Contractor and Consultant Compliance with SANDAG ADA Policies

SANDAG contracts with entities that provide a service, activity, or program to the public include a clause requiring compliance by the contractor or consultant with all SANDAG policies concerning ADA compliance and prohibitions against discrimination based on a disability or various health conditions. If a contract concerns construction or remodeling of a facility, the contract documents specify that the contractor is required to comply with ADA and building code requirements relevant to serving persons with disabilities.

Review of Published Reports

The Director of Communications has been assigned to review all final written and audio visual reports prior to their publication to ensure consistency with discrimination laws. The Director of Communications has undergone training concerning compliance with discrimination laws and consults with the ADA Coordinator and Office of General Counsel when appropriate.

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Compliance with ADA as an Employer SANDAG employment practices are in compliance with the ADA. The following actions have been taken to meet existing, new, or expanded requirements.

Review of Employment Policies

Employment policies are reviewed annually by the Office of General Counsel to ensure that SANDAG does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities.

Recruiting for Essential Functions of Positions

As recruitments occur, physical or cognitive skill requirements for each position are reviewed to ensure that requirements relate to performance of essential functions of the position. The intent of this practice is to ensure unnecessary skills are not included that would limit the pool of qualified candidates with disabilities, and to give advance notice to candidates with disabilities of the job requirements to assist them in making accommodation requests if needed.

No Automatic Disqualifications for Medical Conditions

With the exception of positions covered by regulation, there are no automatic disqualifications for candidates for employment based on medical conditions. Each case is considered individually and reasonable accommodation is considered.

Physical Agility Examinations

Positions requiring a physical agility examination are reviewed to ensure the job relevance of all physical activities simulated in the test and prevent unnecessary restriction of the candidate pool for potential employment.

Reasonable Accommodation During Recruitment

Reasonable accommodations are available upon request for use in the selection/hiring process. Candidates are informed of their right to request accommodation in the SANDAG job announcements, which state: “Applicants requiring an accommodation due to a disability should state their needs in writing when submitting an application.” SANDAG makes job announcements available, upon request, in alternate formats, such as large print and Braille. In addition, the SANDAG TTY number is included on all position announcements.

Training for Interview Panels

All persons who participate on interview panels are given training that includes a discussion about non-discriminatory conduct during candidate interviews.

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Outreach Efforts

Recruitment outreach efforts include direct mailings, email messages, and social media to organizations servicing persons with disabilities and posting on websites dedicated to minority individuals.

Reasonable Accommodation Policy and Procedure

SANDAG includes a reasonable accommodation policy and procedure in its Employee Handbook. This handbook is reviewed and updated annually.

ADA Sensitivity Training for Employees

SANDAG conducts ADA sensitivity training every two years for all appropriate employees, including supervisors and managers. The training for supervisors and managers includes additional information on ADA compliance in the areas of recruitment, selection, and hiring of employees.

New Employee Orientation

New employee orientation for appropriate staff includes a section that covers SANDAG policies concerning the ADA.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Fair Employment Practices

SANDAG ensures equal employment opportunity and fair employment practices to all persons regardless of race, color, gender, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, age, marital status, veteran/military status, ancestry, medical condition (AIDS/HIV, history of cancer), breast-feeding (or medical conditions relating to breast-feeding), mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or genetic information. The SANDAG Equal Employment Opportunity statement “SANDAG is an Equal Employment Employer” will continue to be included on job announcements and applications for employment.

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Complaint Procedures One of the agency’s responsibilities under Title II is to designate a person to be responsible for coordinating the implementation of ADA requirements and for investigating complaints of alleged noncompliance. At the time of approval of this Access Plan, that person is the Director of Administration, whose office is located at 401 B Street, Suite 800, San Diego, California 92101.

SANDAG also is required to establish a grievance policy for the filing and investigation of grievances involving allegations of noncompliance with the ADA provisions. A grievance and investigation process for claims concerning the ADA applicable to SANDAG staff members is incorporated in a policy in the SANDAG Employee Handbook titled “Discrimination and Harassment Prevention.” SANDAG also has adopted an ADA grievance policy applicable to SANDAG visitors and other persons who are not on SANDAG staff, which is contained in SANDAG Board Policy No. 009, titled “Discrimination Complaint Procedures.”

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