During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing revision of building codes in the city, highlighting an opportunity to incorporate visibility and visitability standards into the new regulations. The conversation centered around the comprehensive land use plan, which encourages the development of accessible housing for individuals of all ages and disabilities. While the plan is aspirational, there is a push to translate its language into actionable building codes.

One significant point raised was a missed opportunity regarding a duplex construction project by the Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority (PURA). The project proceeded without prior consultation with the ADA committee, which could have facilitated the inclusion of an accessible dwelling unit. As the foundation has already been laid, officials expressed concern over the lack of accessibility features, emphasizing the importance of proactive discussions with developers to avoid similar oversights in future projects.

The meeting also touched on the compliance of city buildings with visitability standards. While no non-historical buildings were reported as non-compliant, there was a suggestion for the ADA advisory commission to conduct an audit of city facilities, including new fire stations, to ensure they meet accessibility requirements.

Additionally, officials recounted challenges in communication with the local school district regarding improvements to Dutch Clark Stadium. Despite efforts to engage with the district over the past two years, there were delays in responses, leading to concerns about the accessibility of the stadium's facilities, particularly for older attendees. The discussion underscored the need for better collaboration between city authorities and educational institutions to enhance accessibility in public spaces.

Overall, the meeting highlighted a commitment to improving accessibility in the community, with officials advocating for more inclusive practices in building and renovation projects.