We know how complicated it is to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements in restaurants. Several people had told us at different times that a certain person in wheelchair actually became a millionaire by suing several restaurants for not being in compliance with ADA regulations. It is an unfortunate situation when someone in a wheelchair is unable to dine at a restaurant.

There are small restaurants who barely get by with their daily sales and cannot afford the costs to renovate and make it accessible to people with limited mobility. In these situations, they often choose to give up their dream and close down the restaurant. Some banks do offer loans targeted at small restaurants to help them make renovations to meet ADA requirements, and help them stay in business The way I see it, providing accessibility is a win-win situation for both people with limited mobility and business owners.

Being deaf business owners, we also fall under this category. The ADA regulations are primarily targeted at people with limited mobility. We understand their needs, and we are working hard to meet requirements in all areas in a satisfactory manner. We asked the building inspector to arrange an initial walk-through at Mozzeria as we were worried about the entrance ramp and restroom. The inspector identified several areas in the restroom and entrance that we need to correct.

Restroom:


The soap dispenser is located in the wrong place. The top of soap dispenser needs to be 40 inches high from the floor. Its current location is higher and difficult for people in wheelchairs to reach.


We got a 27" x 27" mirror for the restroom. The bottom edge of mirror needs to be at 40 inches height. If we lower the mirror to 40 inches, that mirror would not allow able-bodied people to see themselves in the mirror. We would need to change the mirror with a larger one.


We need to replace the existing door hinges with 5 lb spring hinges to slow down speed of the door closing.

Entrance ramp:


According to regulations, you must have 5 feet of "flat" surface and allow up to quarter inch for every twelve inch segment leading to it and then, at the end of the "flat" surface, make an inch upwards for every twelve inch space to create the ramp.


Hand rails are required to be placed on both sides of the wall surrounding the ramp.


We look forward to making our restaurant accessible to everyone.