~ Boston Landmarks Commission Celebrates 35 Years of Progress in Accessibility

In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed, marking a significant moment for civil rights in the United States. The act aimed to ensure that people with disabilities are granted full participation in society through equal access to physical spaces and information. For Boston, a city known for its hills and rich architectural history, the ADA has presented both challenges and opportunities.

From the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the iconic steps of Old South Meeting House, many structures in Boston were built during eras that did not consider accessibility features such as ramps or elevators. As the Boston Landmarks Commission (BLC) reviews changes to historically important buildings and landscapes, they are faced with the delicate balance of preserving their historical integrity while also promoting inclusive design.

According to Chelsea Blanchard, Staff Architect at the Office of Historic Preservation, "The ADA does not require us to erase the past. Instead, it has encouraged us to innovate – to find ways of maintaining the authenticity of our historic environments while ensuring no one is excluded from experiencing them."

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In the past 35 years, Boston has made remarkable progress in terms of accessibility. Institutions like the Central Branch of the Boston Public Library and Boston City Hall have led by example by integrating ADA-compliant changes with sensitivity towards their historical buildings. This has been made possible through collaborative efforts between preservationists, architects, BLC, and the Boston Disabilities Commission.

Blanchard highlights some creative solutions that have been implemented in historic buildings throughout Boston: discreetly placed lifts, re-graded pathways, newly inserted elevator cores, and interpretive programs that bring history to life for all residents of the city.

At BLC, accessibility issues are carefully examined on every application submitted. The commission consults with colleagues, commissioners, and members of the community to ensure that their work is not just code-compliant but truly inclusive. The success of the ADA has shown that accessibility is not a threat to historic preservation; rather, it is an essential aspect of ensuring that buildings meet the needs of all individuals.

As Boston celebrates 35 years of progress in accessibility, the BLC remains committed to promoting inclusive design and preserving the city's rich history for generations to come.

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