HANDICAP: Keep things more accessible

I am writing in response to the article entitled “Misuse of Spokane River Ramp May Force Removal.” I can relate to the frustrations of Ms. Burdett, who is wheelchair bound, when everyone but the mobility impaired are using the ramp for river fun.

This same thing happens with handicapped parking spaces. Drivers, without handicap placards or plates, use the spaces close to the entrance because they just want to run in, get something quick and be right out. It just happened to me at Super 1 on U.S. 95 and Kathleen. Thankfully, I’m not in a wheelchair, but I am mobility impaired and I signify that with my state issued handicap license plate.

The same thing happens at the Schuler Performing Arts Center at NIC during the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theater performances. The theater is ADA compliant and has designated handicap seats in the first row of the balcony center. But, unfortunately, my husband and I are not able to reserve them. This year, as a season ticket holder, I requested seating in that section for Sunday matinee performances. Staff in the ticket office told me those seats were not available and yet for the past two years we have observed the group of people sitting in those seats are CST management and their friends, none of which were individuals with mobility disabilities.

The handicap designation is not special treatment, it just makes life more accessible. Please think of that the next time you’ll “be just a minute” or “I want a good seat.”

GERI WILE

Coeur d’Alene