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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Kathleen Collins, Disabled New Yorker, on Dining Out NYC Program Accessibility
3:47:22
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115 sec
Kathleen Collins, a disabled New Yorker using a wheelchair, testified in support of the Dining Out NYC program, emphasizing the need for accessibility for people with disabilities. She stressed that the program should be implemented correctly to ensure equal participation and enjoyment for all New Yorkers, including those with disabilities.
- Collins highlighted specific accessibility requirements, such as adequate space between tables for mobility devices, low tables with leg space for wheelchair users, and independent access without needing assistance.
- She emphasized the importance of maintaining clear paths on sidewalks for pedestrians with disabilities.
- Collins called for proper monitoring and inspection of restaurants to ensure compliance with safety, health, and accessibility regulations.
Kathleen Collins
3:47:22
Good afternoon.
3:47:23
My name is Kathleen Collins, I'm a lifetime New Yorker.
3:47:27
I'm disabled and I use a wheelchair.
3:47:30
I support the Dining Out New York City program provided it's done correctly and does not hamper or obstruct New Yorkers with disabilities ability to participate in the Dining Out New York City program.
3:47:41
Since the Dining Out New York City program provides another revenue source for restaurants by expanding their seating capacity, it also needs to be accessible to people with disabilities.
3:47:51
People with disabilities enjoy outdoor dining with family, relatives, and friends.
3:47:55
Additionally, people with disabilities who want to hold a business meeting over me appreciate having outdoor dining as an option available to them.
3:48:02
Thus, restaurants dining out New York City program needs to provide enough space between tables for people with mobility devices to be able to participate in the Dining Out New York City program.
3:48:11
Sufficient tables that are low and can be accessed somewhere by someone sitting in a wheelchair needs to be provided.
3:48:17
Additionally, these tables need to provide leg space for people with wheelchairs to be able to come up to the table.
3:48:22
Further, the Dining Out New York City program needs to permit a customer to access it without a customer having to request a ramp or other assistance to be seated when other customers can independently seat themselves.
3:48:33
Turning to the pedestrian walking past the dining out spaces, the restaurants need to keep a clear path on the sidewalk for everyone including pedestrians with disabilities to travel safely.
3:48:44
Finally, in order to make sure restaurants outdoor dining actually is in compliance with regulations, the agency issuing these permits needs to be given financial resources to follow-up and inspect the restaurants to make sure the restaurants are following the applicable safety, health and accessibility regulations.
3:49:01
In sum, the Dining Out New York City program can improve the quality of life of New Yorkers provided it takes into consideration all the needs of everyone, including people with disabilities, and it is properly monitored.
3:49:14
Thank you for this opportunity to speak.
3:49:16
And I'd just like to bring to councilwoman Palladino's attention that many times may not be