Caltrans Reaches $1.1 Billion Settlement Agreement With Disabilities Groups

Sacramento, CA -- Caltrans has settled a class action lawsuit filed by Californians for Disability Rights and the California Council for the Blind regarding access to sidewalks and facilities.

The organizations had sued Caltrans, alleging that the state had denied access to people with vision or mobility disabilities to numerous facilities.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has released a statement reading, "This settlement is a win-win. It is a victory for all Californians, taxpayers and the disability community who have a right to equal access to all walkways."

Caltrans agrees to spend $1.1 billion for barrier removal work and other improvements on sidewalks and pedestrian facilities over the course of 30 years. The agency also agrees to ensure that all pedestrian and park and ride facilities will be fully compliant with state and federal access requirements.

Written by bjhansen@mlode.com.