City of Keystone, ADA Violation, South Dakota 2012

City of Keystone Faces ADA Violation Charges

KEST even residents have been denied access to the city's park due to a lack of accessibility for individuals with disabilities. A complaint was filed with the U.S. Attorney's Office alleging that the playground equipment at Watson Park in Keystone, South Dakota, was not accessible to wheelchair users.

According to the complaint filed on December 19, 2012, the playground equipment at Watson Park was not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The lack of accessibility denied individuals with disabilities the opportunity to picnic, relax, and play in the park.

City officials in Keystone cooperated with the investigation and developed a Master Plan to bring Watson Park into compliance with the ADA. The plan included removing sand and installing wood fiber safety surfaces around the playground equipment, developing a more accessible route to the playground, installing additional playground stations, and renovating the parking lot to include van accessible parking spaces.

Thanks to the modifications, the parking lot is now equipped with accessible parking spaces and appropriate signage for van accessible parking. The sand around the playground has been replaced with a more stable, firm, and slip-resistant wood fiber surface. The gazebo and playgrounds have an accessible route within the playground equipment.

These renovations provide an ADA-accessible place for people with disabilities to picnic, relax, and play. The City of Keystone remains committed to providing accessibility to all individuals.

The U.S. Attorney's Office investigates allegations of ADA violations and provides information about the ADA through a toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) and (800) 514-0383 (TDD), or visit www.ada.gov for more information.

The City of Keystone's actions demonstrate a commitment to serving all members of the community, regardless of their abilities. By providing accessibility to Watson Park, the city is ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park's facilities and services.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sd/pr/keystone-city-park-now-accessible-all-citizens-community