[tri-med] handicap accessibility

Hi all!
I was wondering what you all know about what the requirements are for a
public building regarding accessibility for handicapped individuals.

We recently joined the local YMCA.  Christina has been taking swim lessons.
Unfortunately, there are no times for me to take her when Eric is home so I
am bringing all 3 kids to the lessons.  Since 2 of them don't walk, I am
using a double stroller.   I get SO incredibly frustrated trying to get into
the Y building and then and navigate through its maze to the pool.

There is a ramp into the Y, and there are no stairs, but there are NINE sets
of doors to go through to get to the pool.  Luckily, a couple are usually
opened, but most are not.  None of the doors are automatic and, I can't
imagine, if someone was in a wheelchair, how they would get into and through
the Y.  I have the worst time trying to get in and out of the Y and I feel
like there should be an easier way.  I haven't asked them yet.  Are they
obligated to help disabled individuals?  It seems like they definitely
should be, but I am not familiar with the laws.  They have handicapped
parking spots, they have a spa pool with a ramp.  They even supply
wheelchairs that can pushed into the water, but I don't know how anyone in a
wheelchair could even get to that pool in the first place!

Anyone have any thoughts or ideas on how I could make this easier
without causing too much trouble?

Thanks!
--
Irene
Christina (4), Caroline (2 with partial trisomy 17p) and Kallie (born
6/23/05)
Caroline's site:  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/carolinesmith

                  Building ___ooOOoo__ Rainbows
                       www.trisomyonline.org
                  Families Helping Families On-line

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