Equitable Access

Design at MAC must provide systems and services that move beyond minimum code-compliance in order “to provide exceptional airport experiences to Minnesota thrives”, and to make MSP the most accessible airport possible. This enhanced level of service can be achieved through quality design, which incorporates universal design principles.

Goal: To make MSP the most accessible airport possible by providing equitable access for all.

MAC expects design to go beyond code compliance for accessibility striving to incorporate universal design principals. Protected classes have some accommodations in today’s codes, to achieve equitable access consider people with other disabilities, including but not limited to:

• Acute or chronic impairments
• Pregnancy
• Reduced mobility
• Cognitive disorders
• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Allergies
• Chemical hypersensitivity
• Height differences
• Neurodivergent
• Aging Population
• Undiagnosed impairments

Education of stakeholder groups will contribute to the success of this goal to understand and leverage the differing aspects of implementation of universal design.

Resources: Numerous resources are available for compliance review and project background goal- setting.

• Universal Design principles/equitable access https://universaldesign.ie/about-universal-design/the-7-principles
• ADA https://www.ada.gov/
• MN building code https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/codes-and-laws/2020-minnesota-state-building-codes
• Air Carrier Access Act https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/disability
• FAA Civil Rights Programs https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/acr/com_civ_support
• Travelers with Disabilities Advisory Committee (TDAC)
• Travelers Advisory Committee (TAC)
• MAC ADA Coordinator (Manager of Diversity and EEO)
• Customer Service Action Council (CSAC)

Tenant work (including airlines): Utilize the Concessions Planning and Implementation Team (CPIT) to discuss opportunities during a review meeting. Focus on public facing areas first. Approaches to consider include but are not limited to:

• All seating types should be accessible seating
• All counter areas should be accessible
• Merchandise products vertically to allow for any product to be available at multiple heights