If
alterations are made to areas containing a primary function,
an accessible “path of travel” must be provided to the altered area
unless it is “disproportionate” to the overall alterations in terms
of cost and scope as determined under criteria established by the standard setting
agencies. An accessible “path of travel” is a continuous route
connecting the altered areas to an entrance and other elements (i.e., toilet
rooms, drinking fountains, and public telephones) that serve the altered area.
For example, an alteration is planned for a portion of an existing composite
play structure. Alterations to any play components or structures in the play
area would be considered a “primary function” since “play”
is the primary function of the area. In this example, the “path of travel”
obligation requires an accessible route to be provided from an exterior approach
(e.g., sidewalks, street, parking area) to the portion of the composite play
structure being altered, unless the cost is “disproportionate” to
the overall alterations in terms of cost and scope.
