HB 2729, Rep. Joan McBride (D-Kirkland), would require cities to prepare a plan to address the phase-in of retrofitting streets with accessible on-street parking spaces for individuals with a physical disability. This bill is the result of a 2013 U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals case, Fortyune vs. City of Lomita, requiring cities to provide accessible public on-street parking to individuals with disabilities. However, the decision did not clarify standards or what that parking should look like. Disability standards are set by the United States Access Board, but, unfortunately, to date no standards have been adopted for on-street parking.

With no official standards in place, HB 2279 is proposing a solution. However, cities are concerned with our ability to carry out this new proposed policy. Specifically, HB 2729 would require cities:

• To prepare a plan that addresses how we will phase in retrofitting of local streets to accommodate accessible on-street parking;
• Show how retrofitting and design recommendations are in compliance with the guidelines issued by the Access Board;
• Include a timeline for when retrofitting will begin; and
• Provide a fiscal analysis of the design and constructions costs for the retrofitting.

These plans are due to the Department of Commerce by December 30, 2020.

Cites applaud the intent of the bill, and are committed to working with the sponsor to address the problem. However, we have significant concerns around our ability to carry out the requirements of the bill in the time allocated and with no resources provided.