To the editor:

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed to help the disabled have easier and better access to public places. Sometimes issues concerning access get missed on purpose, or by neglect. I have found a few that concern me.

The first is the handicapped restrooms at the local hospital. If you are in a manual wheelchair it won‘t work. I called the Patients Rights Advocate, Nicki Behr, at the hospital and asked her to perform this simple test. Take one of the courtesy manual wheelchairs in the lobby of the Professional Building and wheel yourself while staying seated, into and out of the restroom designated for the handicapped. Fellow citizens, try this test yourselves, and you will see what I mean.

The next is the building at 1000 West Michigan Ave. It has a foot doctor on the lower level, and a dermatology clinic in the upper level. Here is the test for that location. Park your car the rear of the building in a handicapped designated slot, and propel yourself in a manual wheelchair, following the signs to the handicapped entrance and you will see there is no ramp with the proper slope and handrails, or landings at the proper intervals. NO doorbell to call for assistance if you can’t make it that far up the hill.

I have proof that both locations have had these specific issues brought to their attention. It is with regret that l am now filing a complaint with the department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Watching out for my fellow disabled citizens is a task that never seems to end.

Larry Grieshop

Sidney