City Council Approves Study on ADA Accessibility at City Hall

The City of Cortland Common Council has unanimously approved hiring QPK Design to conduct a study on accessibility improvements at City Hall, following a recent request for proposals. The city previously secured $50,000 through a Community Development Block Grant to fund the study.

City Hall, located at 25 Court Street in downtown Cortland, currently offers ADA access only at the rear of the building, where an elevator is available. The front entrance includes a single step leading into a security area and directly to a large stairwell, creating barriers for those with mobility challenges.

This limited accessibility has been an ongoing inconvenience for residents with disabilities, particularly when attending meetings held outside normal business hours, such as commission or Common Council meetings. Individuals who need to use the elevator must enter through the rear and often require assistance to gain access.

Before the vote, Mayor Steve noted that Alex Mikowski, executive director of Access to Independence, submitted a letter expressing the organization’s support for the study as a first step toward improving accessibility at City Hall.

The study will include a comprehensive evaluation of the building and provide recommendations on upgrades needed to make the facility more accessible. City officials say it marks the beginning of a broader effort to improve access for all residents.