The Disability and Communication Access Board (DCAB) of the Hawaiʻi Department of Health has unveiled a new voluntary sign aimed at enhancing accessibility in van-accessible parking spaces. This initiative targets state and local governments, along with private businesses, to prioritize side ramp or lift-equipped vehicles (SRLVs) in these designated areas.
Van-accessible parking spaces are crafted to cater specifically to SRLVs by providing additional width—either within the parking space itself or the adjacent access aisle. This extra space facilitates the deployment of a side ramp or lift. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that one out of every six accessible parking spaces must be van-accessible. These spots can be used by any vehicle displaying a valid disability permit; however, they are crucial for SRLVs. Occupancy by non-SRLVs can prevent those with SRLVs from accessing these essential spaces.
"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 effort forms part of DCAB's "Park with Aloha" campaign, which seeks to enhance Hawai‘i’s parking program for individuals with disabilities. The new sign design is available for download on the DCAB website.
The “Park with Aloha” campaign promotes extending the spirit of Aloha into parking practices, reminding drivers that it’s important not only to “Drive with Aloha” but also to “Park with Aloha.”
For more information about DCAB, interested parties are encouraged to visit their website.