Commissioners approve wider doorway at nursing home business office to improve ADA access

Merrimack County commissioners approved a contract with Lang Door & Hardware to widen the entrance to the nursing home business office to improve accessibility for residents who use power chairs and bariatric equipment. Presenters said the existing opening (about 36 inches, as described in the discussion) is too narrow for many standard power chairs and some bariatric residents, causing scuffed paint and potential safety risks. Staff consulted the architect and fire/safety plans and provided drawings showing a wider primary door plus a hinged leaf to create a larger opening when needed while preserving the wall’s required smoke‑barrier function. Staff said the change would improve resident access to the business office (where residents review accounts and financial matters) and reduce the risk of incidents during tight maneuvers. The architect’s schematic and vendor bids were included in the meeting packet; two vendors responded (Lang Door & Hardware of Hooksett and Kelly Brothers of Hudson), and the board approved Lang Door & Hardware by voice vote. Commissioners noted the work appears straightforward and said the nursing home has pursued ADA improvements in response to resident needs. No construction start date was read into the record during the discussion excerpt provided.