University begins survey of campus to determine accessibility of facilities

The university has contracted with an architectural firm to inspect campus facilities throughout the next four to six months. The survey began this week in Reynolda Hall and Benson University Center.

The survey is an initial step in working toward renovating campus facilities to bring them into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). When the survey is completed, the university will develop a plan for making physical changes to facilities.

Two-person teams will visit buildings across campus during the survey period, according to Connie Carson, director of Residence Life and Housing and co-chair of the ADA Task Force at Wake Forest. The other co-chair is Van Westervelt, director of the Learning Assistance Center.

Survey team members will carry identification.

“These teams will be conducting various measurements, observing the layout of rooms, and reviewing how accessible campus areas are to the disabled,” Carson said.

Usually, advance notice will be given to buildings where surveys are scheduled. The notice will be made not only to administrative and academic buildings, but also to those living in campus residences.

“We want the survey to be carried out in the least disruptive manner possible,” Carson said. “Interrruptions of academic, administrative and student activities will be brief during visits by the survey teams.”