Title - City of San Antonio


	Pilot: City of San Antonio Downtown Sidewalk Survey Using Segway Transport Devices
	Downtown Survey Area


	Sidewalk Rating Summary •0 = Sidewalk is not present for entire block •1 = Sidewalk is impassable based on rating criteria •2 = Sidewalk has limited but not severe damage. Sidewalks appear level across driveway aprons. Encroachments appear to allow adequate passage •3 = Entire sidewalk is in good condition. Sidewalks appear level across driveway aprons. Encroachments appear to allow adequate passage.

	Rating Sheet



	Sidewalk Rating Summary
		0 = Sidewalk not present for entire section / block


		1 = Sidewalk present but not usable by someone with a wheelchair


		2 = Marginally usable by someone with a wheelchair.


		3 = Sidewalk is in good condition and easily usable by someone in a wheelchair.



	Segway Survey
		“Alamo Segway” loaned 2 Segways (mobility devices) to the Disability Access Office to conduct a sidewalk survey using the above rating system

	Findings
		Advantages - Segways: Cover wider area more quickly than if walking Allows immediate sense of what it is like to maneuver on wheels in the public right-of-way. Wheels require searching for an accessible pathway into buildings, helping to identify related access issues. Elevated height on Segway helps identify overhanging hazards / obstacles in the right-of-way. Increased ability to detect uneven surfaces and excessive cross slopes.

	Findings
		Disadvantages: Filling out detailed rating sheet while standing on device Awkward to get on and off and park device Leg and foot muscles may tire from standing for extended period Stance requires maintaining a slight bending of the knees

	Conclusion
	Segways: •Are excellent in simulating wheelchair conditions and maneuverability •Are excellent for quick response site visits around downtown area as opposed to driving •Are economical and environmentally friendly •Are efficient and effective tool for small area analysis •Have low maintenance cost •May not be as practical on larger survey areas •Require short staff training and practice to assure safety and equipment maintenance


		Thanks to Roland "Buzz" Jellett and Alamo Segway Tours for loaning the Disability Access Office 2 Segways and for their ongoing downtown sidewalk advocacy and support.

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