City Advances First ADA Transition Plan in Over 30 Years

This important work formally began in July 2024, when the City launched the assessment in partnership with community members at the Rally for Disability Rights at Google. Since then, the City has conducted a thorough evaluation of existing conditions and barriers, guided by both technical expertise and the lived experiences of people with disabilities. 

“The ADA tells us what the minimum requirements are,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “But our community deserves more than the minimum. This plan lays out how we can achieve compliance and move beyond it toward a City where everyone can fully participate and thrive.” 

The ADA Transition Plan will reflect a long-term, intentional strategy that acknowledges both the scale of the work ahead and the City’s responsibility to approach it thoughtfully. The recommendations identified through this assessment will require sustained commitment, careful budgeting, and the integration of accessibility into the daily operations of City government. 

“This work is essential to building a Pittsburgh for all, where disabled people are not excluded and where the City benefits from their full participation,” said Anne Marie Ellison, Manager of the Office of Equal Protection. “Everyone brings lived experience, knowledge, and unique gifts to the life of the City. Removing barriers allows all of us to benefit from those contributions.” 

Accountability remains central to this effort. For too long, accessibility initiatives have been delayed or deprioritized. At a time when accessibility is too often treated as optional, the City affirms that disability rights are human rights, and that improving access for people with disabilities strengthens access for everyone. 

The City extends its sincere appreciation to Precision Infrastructure Management for its technical expertise and continued support throughout this process. Special recognition is also given to Attorney Paul O’Hanlon for his lifelong advocacy and leadership in advancing disability rights. 

This ADA Transition Plan represents both a milestone and a promise, that accessibility will no longer be an afterthought, but a shared and ongoing responsibility. The City looks forward to continuing this work in partnership with the community and to ensuring steady, transparent progress.