[MassHistPres] question abouut ADA and preservation restrictions

[Fred Taylor]

Olivia,

There is a waiver.  Some of what is involved in obtaining one includes:
One of the criteria used by the MAAB in evaluating the variance is whether or not it is technically feasible to establish public access for an historic building 
Application first sent to MHC to verify the building is historic. Local historic districts commission and historic commission write letters to explain why it is historic.   
If a town/city has a local Committee on Disabilities, they must weigh in with a formal vote.   The application must include the committee’s decision and must be signed by the chair.
MHC requires 30 days to review the application.
After 30 days the app is sent to Mass. Architectural Access board who schedules date to hear the case.
I am not sure if local hdc and hc can write letters to MAAB in support of the application.
I believe anyone can attend the hearing.
Fred Taylor, Sudbury


> On Oct 9, 2019, at 7:23 AM, Olivia M <liv1946 at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> Question for the group:
> Is there a waiver from historic preservation when making ADA improvements to public buildings-- specifically thinking about widening doors to make them wheel chair accessible.
> 
> ( The building has preservation restrictions, on the National Register as individual and in a district)
> thanks for your help.
> 
> -- 
> Olivia Mausel
> Holyoke Preservation Trust
> 92 Race St.
> Holyoke, MA 01040
> info at holyokepreservationtrust.org <mailto:info at holyokepreservationtrust.org>
> www.holyokepreservationtrust.org <http://www.holyokepreservationtrust.org/> 
> 413-437-0466
> 
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