Summary

Cary strives to ensure that all provided services and programs are accessible. The ADA Transition Plan plays an important role to meet that goal of removing all accessible barriers identified in the plan. Depending on the type and number of barriers identified for each facility, park, street, or greenway, removal is completed as individual capital projects or included with other maintenance or Capital Improvement Plan projects.

Below is a list of current projects, each accompanied by a brief description of the scope of work, estimated costs, and/or anticipated commencement dates for the accessibility improvements at each facility.

Accessible Greenway Project

Cary boasts over 100 miles of greenways; however, it remains to be determined which of these meet accessibility standards. As part of this project, staff will collaborate with consultants to establish Cary’s accessible greenway standards, guided by national ADA recommendations. Once these standards are defined, staff and consultants will assess and identify which greenways qualify as accessible.

Work is scheduled to commence in Fall 2025.

The Cary Depot

Accessible site improvements will include upgraded curb ramps, sidewalks, and improved access routes from Harrison Drive to the depot facility. Construction will be phased to avoid interrupting station or transit operations. Construction is scheduled to commence in Fall 2026.

Urban Park

Accessible site improvements will include regrading and installing new accessible and standard parking spaces. The scope of work also includes regrading existing sidewalks to meet accessible slope requirements. The total estimated construction cost is $24,000, with work scheduled to commence in Spring 2026.

Davis Drive Park

Several accessibility improvements are currently in design or under construction at Davis Drive Park. A new sidewalk and landscaped areas connecting the existing accessible parking spaces to the comfort station’s restrooms and picnic area are currently under construction, with completion by mid March 2026. Both the playground structure, the men’s and women’s restroom renovations, and the sidewalk repairs have been completed. Please visit the Davis Drive Park website for closures and project timelines.

Bond Park

Recently completed ADA Improvements at Bond Park enhanced accessibility to the Boat House, Lazy Daze Playground, and Field #3. The projects included upgrading parking areas with compliant ADA spaces, signage, and access aisles. New and improved sidewalks provided safe, stable, and continuous routes from parking areas to each destination. These enhancements improved mobility, safety, and inclusivity for all park visitors while ensuring ADA compliance.

Herb Young Community Center

Constructed in the late 1980s, Herb Young will undergo a renovation project that is currently in the design phase and will focus on enhancing accessibility and overall functionality within the locker rooms. Planned improvements include ADA-compliant upgrades to toilets, showers, and sinks to improve usability and access. Lighting will be updated to increase visibility, and new finishes will be incorporated to create a more durable and welcoming environment. Together, these enhancements will improve compliance while providing a more inclusive and comfortable experience for all users.

Additionally, cost estimates have been received to enhance access from the lower-level parking deck to the gymnasium by adding curb ramps and repairing sections of sidewalks along the route. Construction is being coordinated with facility events and schedules to minimize disruption.

Town Hall Campus

A comprehensive assessment of the Town Hall campus evaluated accessibility of sidewalks, curb ramps, parking spaces, and building access. The study identified which elements meet ADA standards and which require upgrades, including accessible parking, signage, and routes from parking to entrances. Cost estimates have been received to prioritize and budget construction projects addressing deficiencies. Construction will be completed in phases to minimize disruption to scheduled events and daily operations. These improvements support the Town’s commitment to safety, accessibility, and equitable access for all visitors.

Curb Ramp Improvements

In January 2020, Cary completed a Curb Ramp Inventory as part of its ADA Transition Plan. At that time, there were 500 miles of Cary maintained streets with nearly 6,700 curb ramps. Prior to completing the Curb Ramp Inventory, Cary proactively repaired nearly 800 curb ramps as part of its annual Street Improvements Program. Curb ramp assessments are included in the annual pavement condition survey and are repaired or replaced if needed, in advance of street resurfacing. The chart below includes updates to Cary’s Curb Ramp Inventory.

Contact

Reid Saunders
Architect - ADA Coordinator 
Facilities, Construction, & Field Services
(919) 380-2785
Reid.Saunders@carync.gov