U-M statement regarding accessibility of Michigan Stadium

October 30, 2007
Contact:
  • umichnews@umich.edu

ANN ARBOR—The University of Michigan is deeply committed to ensuring the accessibility of Michigan Stadium by all patrons who require accessible seating and is in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Every ticketholder who has required an accessible seat has been accommodated. Furthermore, plans currently under way specify significant additions to the number of accessible seats at a range of excellent locations in the stadium, as well as improvements in the accessibility of parking, restrooms, and concessions. Improvements specified under the current plan would greatly exceed projected demand from fans.

The Department of Education has been fully informed of our activities and plans, and the University has been in earnest discussions aimed at gaining their support for our aggressive efforts to further meet the needs of our fans with mobility impairments. The University has also fully cooperated in good faith with the Department of Education, granting all of their requests for relevant information throughout the course of their investigation. We were therefore surprised and disappointed that they unexpectedly issued a negative statement that not only contains misinformation but also ignores the many measures we have already taken?as well as those we are now undertaking?to enhance access to the Michigan Stadium. We hope that this letter will not interfere with our continuing efforts to resolve this important issue in a constructive manner.