Liquor Store Puts Hybrid Parking Closer To Door Than Handicapped Spots
MANCHESTER, N.H. (CBS) - One effort to "go green" in New Hampshire has run into trouble with the disabled at a new state liquor store.
Handicapped accessible spots are now farther from the door than spots for hybrid cars.
To some customers, this parking scheme is an inconvenience. To lawmakers it's an outrage.
James Fox, a disability advocate says it may even be illegal.
WBZ-TV's Lauren Leamanczyk reports
"It violates the ADA, almost assuredly, and just on a basic common sense level, it doesn't make any sense."
Fox is a disability advocate who had to pass by several cars to get to the front door.
The liquor commissioner would not agree to an interview about the controversy. Instead, he issued this statement.
"Our goal is to design stores that are welcoming to all, as well as stores that promote energy conservation and save on operating costs. We are confident that the final parking plan…can achieve both of these important objectives."
He's asked the governor's commission on disabilities to give an opinion on the parking scheme. People with disabilities are already forming theirs.
The building is designed to meet federal green incentives. Hybrid parking is one of those incentives. But, the commission says today's parking scheme is only temporary and it can be re-visited.
