Welcome to the Pedestrian Access Routes (PAR) Program! Find out more about this program that facilitates the creation of new accessible pedestrian circulation paths or converts existing non-compliant pedestrian circulation paths to acceptable standards. The goal of the PAR program is inclusion and a pedestrian network that is connected, safe, reliable and convenient for the pedestrian user.
Overview
What is a PAR you ask? A PAR is an accessible, continuous, unobstructed prepared surface designed for pedestrian use that either coincides with or is separate from a pedestrian circulation path. A PAR may be comprised of one or more of the following components: walkways, ramps, curb ramps and landings/turning spaces, blended transitions, crosswalks, and pedestrian overpasses and underpasses, elevators, and platform lifts.
What are DelDOT's responsibilities? DelDOT, as a public agency, has authority to and is charged with control of highway and multi-modal related facilities in the public right-of-way. This authority requires that DelDOT provide programs which are accessible to and usable by all users including persons with qualifying disabilities. This accessibility requirement is commonly referred to as program access.
Why is a PAR important? An ambulatory user generally does not have difficulties negotiating a pedestrian circulation path in the public right-of-way. Other the other hand, pedestrian circulation paths can pose challenges for persons with qualifying disabilities. Because program access is a requirement, DelDOT has an obligation to provide accessibility to existing and proposed pedestrian circulation paths under DelDOT authority and control.
How did DelDOT evaluate the existing pedestrian network? In 2011/2012 DelDOT completed a field investigation or self-assessment of the pedestrian network under DelDOT's authority and control. This self-assessment was a massive undertaking since DelDOT has responsibility to approximately 90% of the roadway network throughout the state. This investigation was necessary in order for DelDOT to complete a Self-Assessment and Transition Plan. The results of the self-assessment are found on the DelDOT Internet as the DelDOT ADA Inventory & Assessment App.
What are the PAR program objectives? The PAR program works with all DelDOT programs and projects to ensure that existing DelDOT pedestrian facilities are evaluated and or upgraded to acceptable standards or planned DelDOT pedestrian facilities meet acceptable standards. The PAR program also works with the DelDOT Civil Rights Section and the DelDOT ADA Title II Coordinator ensuring DelDOT is meeting obligations including a detailed schedule to transition pedestrian circulation path deficiencies that were identified through DelDOT's Self-Assessment and Transition Plan.
Excluding residential subdivisions
