The Disability and Communication Access Board (DCAB) of the Hawaiʻi Department of Health has introduced a new voluntary sign for reserved van-accessible parking spaces. The initiative targets state and local governments, as well as private businesses, to ensure that these spaces are prioritized for vehicles equipped with side ramps or lifts (SRLVs).
Van-accessible parking spaces offer additional width to accommodate SRLVs, providing either an extra 3 feet in the parking space itself or in the adjacent access aisle. This design facilitates the deployment of side ramps or lifts. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), one out of every six accessible parking spaces must be van-accessible. Although any vehicle displaying a valid disability parking permit can use these spaces, they are essential for SRLVs. Occupation by non-SRLVs prevents individuals with SRLVs from accessing their destination.
“Vehicles without side ramps or lifts parking in van-accessible spaces when standard accessible spaces are available is one of the most common complaints we receive from SRLV drivers,” said DCAB Executive Director Kirby Shaw. “Our goal is to encourage those who can use standard-sized accessible parking spaces to do so, thereby keeping van-accessible spaces available for those who need them. This initiative is part of our ‘Park with Aloha’ campaign, which aims to improve Hawai‘i’s parking program for individuals with disabilities.”
The sign design is available for download on the DCAB website.
The “Park with Aloha” campaign promotes courteous behavior in parking practices, extending beyond driving etiquette.
For more information about DCAB, visit their website.
Media inquiries can be directed to Kirby L. Shaw.
