Crosswalk to Handicapped Parking

Crosswalk for patrons of nearby shops. When this shopping center was brand new, I noticed the decorative shrubs blocked patrons from crossing safely; they would have to walk a distance and then go into traffic in order to get to the shops. I contacted a store owner, who put me in contact with the complex owners, who put me in contact with the shopping center builder. I explained to the builder that - yes - he did install enough handicapped spaces BUT disabled people would be required to enter traffic to get to the stores safely. He understood immediately once he thought about it. Within a short time, the pretty shrubbery was removed and this brick-lined walkway was installed. The builder was not being negligent, he did not think about function, he focused on attractiveness. It is important to gather input from those who would become users of any service. Each time I visit these shops, I smile to myself; almost every person shopping here crosses on that walkway through the handicapped spaces. Self advocacy is important in my volunteer work. The organization that I volunteer with teaches parents to advocate for themselves and their children.