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SILVER TSUNAMI Competing in a world with increasing demand for accessibility means being prepared. Here's how to get started: Gaskins, who has more than 30 years experience in the practice of architec- ture and a comprehensive understanding of professional practice nationwide, says that ADA is a sleeping giant that is just beginning to stir. "The ADA has been a Civil Rights Law for more than 25 years, and businesses are still catching up. ADA lawsuits are on the rise across the coun- try. It's much better to be proactive about compliance, both to avoid litigation and to better serve your customers." As we have seen, this trend de- mands new levels of flexibility in the workplace and beyond. The race to com- ply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) continues to be one of the big- gest areas of emphasis for brands in the retail, restaurant and hospitality sectors. Requirements include wheelchair ramps, accessible stalls, accessible parking, lifts, and other items designed to assist the physically disabled. The ADA addresses a much broader array of issues than just wheelchair acces- sibility. It also is requiring facilities to make adjustments for people who are visually and hearing impaired, and have trouble sitting down, standing up and walking stairs. Gaskins says there has been a rise in the number of ADA lawsuits filed against businesses and facilities for alleged vio- lations over the last few years. With the advent of the Silver Tsunami, the number of lawsuits is poised to increase. Now is the time for change. The average cost of an ADA settlement is nearly $15,000. " Agility, flexibility, accommodation is the order of the day." – Dr. James Johnson, Director, Urban Investment Strategies Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ways to prepare for the Silver Tsunami No. 1 Know how you're doing First, understand the ADA basics. Consult with a licensed architect specializing in ADA compliance and have them conduct an ADA audit on the facility. No. 2 Develop a written implementation plan Data from the audit can be used to create an access plan to remove barriers within a time frame that works for your budget. ADA enforce- ment does not insist on complete and immediate compliance, but hav- ing a plan will show that you have it under control. COMMERCIAL TRANSFORMATIONS JULY/AUGUST 2016 ISSUE 3 MCINTOSHTRANSFORMS.COM 132