BHCA argues in court for historically appropriate,ADA-compliant ramps
Accessibility is and will continue to be an important issue to the Beacon Hill Civic Association, particularly in light of our many senior residents, multiple housing facilities for persons with disabilities, and difficulties of navigating our historic neighborhood for those with mobility or visual challenges.
The BHCA strongly supports accessibility improvements to pedestrian intersection ramps in the Beacon Hill neighborhood and sees no conflict between the American’s With Disabilities Act (ADA) and the historic district law. In fact the ADA was designed specifically to promote the preservation of historic resources, and there are many successful examples in Boston and elsewhere of fully ADA-compliant ramps built with historically appropriate materials.
At a hearing in Suffolk Superior Court last week the BHCA argued its case that the City of Boston needs to submit ADA-compliant ramp designs using historically appropriate materials for review by the Beacon Hill Architectural Commission. A ruling from the Court is expected within the next 60 days, and the Court may determine whether the City improperly avoided allowing the Commission to review its ramp reconstruction project.
The BHCA remains eager to work with the City to find a mutually-agreeable solution for improved accessibility that can be implemented in a timely fashion.
BHCA seeks Board Candidates
The 2017 BHCA Nominating Committee is currently seeking individuals to serve on its board of directors. The BHCA board welcomes neighbors who are interested in working to better the neighborhood and who have the time to attend monthly meetings, according to Chairman Mark Kiefer. “We are looking for people who care about community building, civic engagement and historic preservation.”
Those interested in serving on the board or recommending a neighbor who would be a good candidate are encouraged to email Patricia Tully at [email protected] or call 617-227-1922.
Oscar Night Cocktail Party
Get ready to roll out the red carpet as the Beacon Hill Civic Association and the Hampshire House host an Oscar Night Cocktail Party on Sunday, February 26. Party-goers will premiere Hollywood’s big night of awards in style from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Hampshire House and enjoy a true V.I.P. treatment with A-list drinks, hors d’oeuvres and the chance to enter prize drawings by playing a movie trivia game.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Beacon Hill Civic Association. For more information and reservations, click on www.bhcivic.org or call 617-275-6696.
Get involved
Beacon Hill Civic Association committees and special events comprise volunteers
working together from all over the neighborhood to assure a good quality of life here. All residents are welcome to jump aboard. Visit www.bhcivic.org and/or call the office (617-227-1922) for more information on how to get involved.
Meetings this week
Tuesday, February 21st:
Green Committee Meeting at 74 Joy Street, 6 pm