News Updates

Supporting more accessible communities through ADA technical assistance

Northeastern Illinois is growing stronger and more accessible as communities across the region make significant strides towards accessibility for all through CMAP’s technical assistance program. In Hillside, CMAP supported the village’s first comprehensive assessment of accessibility barriers along sidewalks, curb ramps, pedestrian signals, and key corridors including priority routes such as Hillside Avenue, Frontage Road, and Oak Ridge Avenue. Public input underscored the challenges of navigating heavily traveled state and county roadways, and the resulting plan lays out a phased 20-year strategy to improve curb ramps, fill sidewalk gaps, and embed accessible design into local policies and maintenance practices.

In Chicago Heights, CMAP worked with the city to evaluate more than 158 miles of sidewalks, 8 signalized intersections, and 122 transit stops, identifying barriers such as non-compliant curb ramps, tripping hazards, and steep or disconnected transit boarding areas. The plan includes a new prioritization tool that weighs severity, equity, proximity to important destinations, and cost-effectiveness to guide future investments. Chicago Heights also updated its grievance procedures and designated an ADA/504 coordinator, building a strong administrative foundation for long-term implementation. Together with ongoing assistance in other communities, these plans highlight CMAP’s commitment to helping communities expand mobility, safety, and independence for residents of all abilities.