Agenda Summary
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That the Director of Planning work with this Council to increase accessible housing.
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Official Text
WHEREAS: Somerville's comprehensive plan, SomerVision 2040, calls for making the city more accessible for all residents and for supporting elders' ability to age in place; and,
WHEREAS: Many Somerville residents report difficulty finding accessible housing, and residents have reported being displaced from Somerville due to a lack of accessible housing options; and,
WHEREAS: Accessible units, specifically those known as Group 2 accessible housing units, are uncommon in Somerville's housing stock; and,
WHEREAS: Housing units that are both deed-restricted affordable and Group 2 accessible are in short supply in Somerville; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED: That the Director of the Planning Division work with this Council to identify the best tools, whether an overlay or another method, to increase accessible housing, incentivizing the following:
1. Additional accessible housing units, particularly Group 2 accessible units;
2. Housing units that are both deed-restricted affordable and Group 2 accessible;
3. Wheelchair-accessible ramps and/or elevators in smaller buildings not otherwise required to provide accessible egress;
4. Deaf-accessible fire alarms and other safety measures for residents who require them;
5. Accessibility of the ground story of all housing units;
6. Braille and high-visibility signage and elevator buttons within buildings;
7. Extra-wide door frames throughout buildings, using expandable or offset hinges; and
8. Automated door entrances to buildings where appropriate.