36 CFR Parts 1190 and 1191 ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines - Preamble (Discussion of Comments and Changes)

Comment. Section 403.5 specifies a continuous clearance of 36 inches minimum for walking surfaces. Wider clearances are specified for wheelchair passing space (60 inches minimum) and certain sharp turns around narrow obstructions. Several comments urged an increase in the specified clearances for walking surfaces, such as a 48 inch minimum for exterior routes, and an increase in wheelchair passing space to 66 inches.

Response. No revisions have been made to the specified clearance of walking surfaces. The minimum width of exterior routes on public streets and sidewalks will likely be revisited in supplementary guidelines specific to public rights-of-ways that the Board intends to develop. These supplementary guidelines will be proposed for public comment.