US DOJ v. City of San Rafael, CA - Physical Accessibility Settlement

The U.S. Department of Justice reached a comprehensive settlement agreement with the City of San Rafael, California as part of DOJ's Project Civic Access initiative. This settlement addressed physical accessibility barriers throughout the city's facilities and ensured that all city programs and services are accessible to people with disabilities under ADA Title II. The settlement required the City of San Rafael to: - Conduct self-evaluations of all city facilities and programs - Remove physical barriers in city buildings including city halls, community centers, libraries, and parks - Ensure accessible routes, entrances, and parking at all city facilities - Make restrooms, drinking fountains, and other amenities accessible - Provide accessible voting locations and equipment - Ensure accessible communication including TTY/TDD services and sign language interpreters - Train city employees on ADA requirements and serving customers with disabilities - Establish grievance procedures for accessibility complaints - Develop and implement transition plans for systematic barrier removal These requirements ensured that residents and visitors with disabilities could access city services, participate in civic activities, and enjoy public facilities on an equal basis with others.