Q: What are the key ADA compliance requirements that colleges should consider when upgrading their aquatic facilities for accessibility?

A: When upgrading an aquatic facility, colleges must ensure compliance with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which establish specific requirements for pool access, lift specifications, and overall facility accessibility. These regulations help ensure that individuals with disabilities have safe and independent access to aquatic facilities.

For pools that are less than 300 linear feet of pool wall, the ADA requires at least one accessible means of entry, while larger pools must have two. At least one of these entry points must be either a pool lift or a sloped entry, as these options provide the most inclusive access for individuals with mobility impairments. If a second means of access is required, it may include another pool lift, a sloped entry, a transfer wall, a transfer system, or accessible pool stairs.

Pool lifts must be permanently fixed unless a facility can demonstrate that a portable lift is the only feasible solution. The seat of the lift must be positioned between 16 and 19 inches above the deck to allow for easy transfers from a wheelchair. Additionally, the lift must support a minimum weight capacity of 300 pounds and be operable independently by the user. To ensure safe and effective water entry, the seat must also be capable of submerging at least 18 inches into the water.

Wheelchair clearance and deck space around pool lifts are also critical considerations. The ADA requires a level, slip-resistant deck space that is at least 36 inches wide next to the lift seat to allow for proper wheelchair transfers. Additionally, there must be a clear, unobstructed pathway leading to the pool lift that is at least 36 inches wide, ensuring easy access for users.

Q: What requirements apply when incporating a sloped entry?

A: For aquatic facilities that use a sloped entry (ramp) as an accessible entry point, the ramp must have a maximum slope of 1:12, meaning it can only rise one inch for every 12 inches of length. It must extend into the water until it reaches a depth of at least 24 inches. To provide additional stability, handrails must be installed on both sides of the ramp. It’s also important to remember that a wheelchair user’s everyday chair is very costly and not intended for aquatic use. So facilities intending to use the sloped entry should plan on also providing aquatic wheelchairs (usually constructed from PVC) that are intended for use in the water.

Beyond the pool itself, colleges must also consider accessibility throughout the entire aquatic facility. Locker rooms, restrooms, and showers should include accessible stalls, roll-in showers, and benches to accommodate users with disabilities. Pathways around the facility must be at least 36 inches wide to allow for smooth navigation. If the facility includes a spa or hot tub, at least one means of accessible entry must be provided, which could be a spa lift, transfer wall, or other transfer system.

By ensuring that these ADA compliance requirements are met, colleges can create a safe, accessible, and inclusive aquatic environment for students, faculty, and community members with disabilities. Taking a proactive approach to accessibility not only ensures compliance with federal regulations but also enhances the usability of the facility for all individuals.

Q: How can colleges ensure that their aquatic lifts and accessibility features are inclusive for individuals with mobility, visual, and cognitive impairments?

A: ADA compliance is just the starting point. True inclusivity means designing for a diverse range of needs. For individuals with mobility impairments, selecting adjustable pool lifts with varied seat heights can improve ease of use. For visually impaired users, high-contrast markers, Braille signage, and tactile pathways can make navigation safer. For those with cognitive disabilities, clear signage, instructional guides, and well-trained staff can make all the difference. Colleges should aim to go beyond the minimum standards by ensuring their aquatic spaces are welcoming, easy to navigate, and usable by as many individuals as possible.

Many colleges and universities also have accessibility committees whose purpose is to aid in projects like this. These committees are not only knowledgeable of the requirements, but often get direct feedback from people with disabilities who can provide a more hands-on review of exactly what your facility can do to improve.

Q: What are the most common types of pool lifts available, and how should a college determine the best option based on its facility and user needs?

A: The first thing to remember is that nothing is one size fits all—and that applies to both pools and disabilities. Pool lifts have come a long way over the years, with numerous unique models now available to accommodate the many different applications and disabilities that need access solutions. From lifts that go up and over above ground spas, to lifts with higher weight capacities that can accommodate more individuals, there’s a lift for just about every application these days!

The most common and safe modern pool lift found in the field today is the fixed battery-powered pool lift. These lifts are permanently installed into the pool deck and operate using a rechargeable lead-acid battery. For outdoor pools that get a lot of sunlight, solar options are even now available for pool lifts!

There are portable models now available as well, which typically use a counterweight ballast system that can easily be rolled away from the pool deck for storage. However, it is important to note that not all portable lifts are ADA compliant. Many facilities will purchase a portable model with the intent of rolling it away from the deck while it’s not in use, which is a violation of the ADA requirement that your primary access point be readily available whenever the pool is open. This small but crucial detail ensures a safe and equitable experience for swimmers of all abilities.

Selecting the right lift for your pool is crucial, both operationally and aesthetically, and there is more that goes into it than one might realize. When we evaluate a body of water for lift selection, there is quite a bit to consider, but there are a few questions you can ask yourself to get going in the right direction. Colleges should evaluate the size and layout of their pool, the anticipated range of users, and whether portability is an option or priority. The pool edge itself must also be considered, including whether or not the lift will need to clear a gutter or raised edge.

Especially in a university setting where branding is so important, facility operators should also consider the importance of branding their lift with custom colors to match the rest of the pool deck.

We recommend consulting an accessibility or pool lift expert to ensure the correct lift is used. At Aqua Creek, we have experts on staff available to help walk you through this process and make it as easy as possible. We provide mockups and drawings if needed and can even help with custom projects when it’s needed. We don’t expect everyone to be experts on access, and that’s where we come in!

Q: Beyond pool lifts, what additional features should colleges consider to improve overall accessibility in their aquatic centers?

A: An accessible pool is only one part of an inclusive aquatic facility. Colleges should also focus on the surrounding environment. Locker rooms should have wide stalls, roll-in showers, and accessible benches. Consider also keeping aquatic PVC wheelchairs available for your shower rooms and any ramp entry pools. Pool decks should feature non-slip surfaces, clear pathways, and high-contrast markings for those with visual impairments.

In addition, providing adaptive equipment, such as water wheelchairs, flotation devices, and accessible pool ladders can further enhance accessibility. Thoughtful planning ensures that all users—not just those with mobility disabilities—can enjoy the facility comfortably and safely.

Get your accessibility committee involved! I think most able-bodied people are surprised by how much they can do to create a more equitable aquatic experience for their students and staff. The first step, and arguably the biggest step, is first asking the question: “What can I do to improve this?”

Q: What maintenance and servicing requirements should colleges anticipate when purchasing and installing accessibility equipment for their pools?

A: Pool lift maintenance is fairly simple, but imperative. Sometimes it can be the difference between your lift lasting you 10 years or 20. Furthermore, regular maintenance is critical for ensuring that accessibility equipment remains safe and operational. Lifts should be inspected routinely for battery life, mechanical function, and seat integrity. Batteries are usually the most common failure point, due to failure to charge the battery.

Facilities staff should also ensure that handrails, ramps, and non-slip surfaces are well-maintained and free from hazards.

Manufacturers often provide recommended service schedules, but a proactive maintenance plan—including staff training on troubleshooting and routine equipment checks—can prevent unexpected issues and ensure consistent accessibility for all users.

Q: Are there any funding sources, grants, or tax incentives available to help colleges offset the cost of ADA-compliant aquatic access equipment?

A: Yes, there are several funding sources, grants, and tax incentives available to help colleges offset the cost of ADA-compliant aquatic access equipment. While securing funding requires research and planning, many institutions can take advantage of federal and state programs, private grants, and tax incentives designed to support accessibility improvements.

At the federal level, colleges may qualify for the Disabled Access Credit (DAC) and the Barrier Removal Tax Deduction, both of which are designed to assist businesses and organizations in covering costs related to ADA compliance. The Disabled Access Credit provides a tax credit of up to $5,000 for small businesses and non-profits that spend between $250 and $10,000 on accessibility modifications. Meanwhile, the Barrier Removal Tax Deduction allows entities to deduct up to $15,000 per year for qualified accessibility-related expenses, including the purchase and installation of pool lifts and other ADA-compliant aquatic access features.

In addition to tax incentives, federal and state grants may be available to help fund accessibility upgrades. Programs such as the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Quality of Life Grants provide funding for projects that enhance the independence and inclusion of individuals with disabilities, including the installation of pool lifts and other accessible aquatic features. Similarly, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Grants and certain Department of Education and state-level disability assistance programs may offer funding opportunities for colleges looking to improve accessibility in their facilities.

Colleges should also explore private foundations and corporate sponsorships that focus on disability inclusion and accessibility initiatives. Organizations such as the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, and local disability advocacy groups may provide funding or resources to support ADA compliance efforts.

To maximize funding opportunities, colleges should:

Conduct thorough research to identify relevant grants and tax incentives.

Work with grant writers or financial experts to ensure strong applications.

Partner with disability advocacy organizations to strengthen funding proposals

Engage with state and local government agencies for potential funding sources.

By leveraging these financial resources, colleges can reduce the financial burden of ADA compliance while ensuring that their aquatic facilities are fully accessible to students, faculty, and community members with disabilities.

Q: How can colleges ensure that their staff is properly trained to assist individuals with disabilities in using aquatic access equipment safely and comfortably?

A: Proper staff training is just as important as having the right equipment. Colleges should provide mandatory training sessions on how to operate pool lifts, assist individuals with transfers, and respond to accessibility-related concerns.

Incorporating hands-on practice drills, video tutorials, and disability awareness training can enhance staff confidence and ensure that students with disabilities receive the support they need. Clear, posted instructions at the pool and locker rooms can also help users and staff alike feel more comfortable with the available accessibility features.

Q: What are the biggest misconceptions that colleges have about ADA aquatic access, and how can they avoid common mistakes?

A: Wow, where do I begin? There are many misconceptions about ADA requirements regarding aquatics access.

The most jarring misconception we hear in the field is that aquatic access is superfluous in some way—that it’s either too ugly to leave on the pool deck, or “I never see anyone in a wheelchair, why do I need it”? What some people still have a hard time understanding is that disabilities aren’t always as obvious as a wheelchair—some are even temporary, or invisible to our naked eye. And someone who has a disability, however permanent, will not put themselves willingly in a dehumanizing situation. So when we say that the lift must be functioning and readily available at all hours of operation, it’s because it creates a positive and equitable experience for everyone.

Being able-bodied is a privilege that most don’t even think about throughout the day, all those little moments of independence that we take for granted. Not having to wonder if the pool has a lift, and if it does will it work, or will everyone stare while I try to figure it out and ultimately have to ask the maintenance team for help? No, most will leave the facility without a word the moment they see a lack of access. Water is a magical place, and everyone deserves to experience it without barriers. It’s our moral obligation as privileged, able-bodied people to ensure these moments don’t happen.

Another common mistake is assuming that all pool lifts are the same. Some colleges purchase the least expensive lift, only to find out later that it doesn’t fit their pool design or accommodate all students, or that it’s not made with the same manufacturing standards. Make sure you select a lift brand with high standards of safety and quality by looking for things like ADA Compliance and UL Safety Certifications. As with any other product, it’s also important to look for things like warranty programs, and stick with brands that offer service and support after the sale.

Q: How can an institution future-proof its aquatic accessibility investments to accommodate evolving regulations and changing student needs?

A: To future-proof an aquatic facility, colleges should invest in versatile and upgradeable accessibility equipment. Choosing modular pool lifts that can be updated with new features, or designing locker rooms and entryways with universal design principles, can help ensure long-term usability.

Staying informed about emerging ADA regulations and seeking input from students and disability advocates can also help colleges anticipate future accessibility needs rather than reacting to them. Investing wisely today means ensuring that facilities remain accessible and compliant for years to come.

Q: What steps can a college take to actively promote its accessible aquatic facilities and encourage greater participation from individuals with disabilities?

A: Accessibility features are only effective if people know about them! Colleges should actively promote their inclusive aquatic facilities through campus-wide announcements, social media, and outreach to disability services offices. So often, we see that things like lifts are removed from the pool for marketing photos. Instead of hiding your access, you should promote it!

Hosting adaptive swimming events, partnering with local disability organizations, and offering inclusive aquatic programming can help encourage participation. Adding detailed accessibility information to the college’s website and facility maps can also make it easier for students to find and use these features. The goal should be to create a welcoming space where all students— regardless of ability—feel encouraged to engage in aquatic activities.