CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, NORTHRIDGE
OUT AND ABOUT THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY,
A GUIDE FOR ORTHOPEDICALLY DISABLED PERSONS
A project submitted in partial satisfaction of the requirements for the Master of Science Degree in
Recreation and Leisure Studies
by
Jean Rothschild Lusher
January 1983 The Project of Jean Rothschild Lusher is approved:
Dianne Philibosian, Advisor
Dr. yrne Fernelius,
Kar;-
California State University, Northridge
i1 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to thank Dr. Isabelle Walker and Dr. Jean
Teague under whose influence this project was conceived and initiated.
To Dr. Dianne Philibosian, whose unstinting guidance, direction and assistance and Karen Burke, whose excellent ideas and encouragement helped bring this work to fruit ion, I express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation.
Many thanks to Robert Winslow for so generously giving of his time, ability and efforts, and Dr. Bryne Fernelius for helpful ideas and suggestions.
Especially do I want my daughter Lynn and sons Alan,
Howard and David to know how much I cherish their en couragement and cooperation throughout the duration of this project.
Finally I give my undying love and gratitude to my late husband, Hy Lusher, whose faith in me and "you can do anything" attitude inspired me to return to the Univer sity and complete my work at an age well past the half century mark.
Jean Rothschild Lusher
iii TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter I Introduction 1
Rationale (Purpose) 1
Statement of Problem 2
Definition of terms 4
Limitations 6
Basic Assumptions 7
Chapter II Review of Current Literature 8
Chapter III Jl.olethodology 15
Accessibility Criteria Used 17 Strategies for Use of Guide 18
Chapter IV Out and About the San Fernando Valley: 20
A Guide for Orthopedically Disabled
Persons
Department Stores: Listings 24
Grocery Supermarkets: Listings 27
Restaurants: Listings 31
Theatres: Listings 36
Special Attractions: Listings 40
Chapter V Field Testing 41
Procedure 41
Findings 41
Chapter VI Summary and Conclusions 43
Bibliography 46
Appendix 48
iv ABSTRACT
OUT AND ABOUT THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, A GUIDE
FOR ORTHOPEDICALLY DISABLED PERSONS
by
Jean Rothschild Lusher
Master of Science Degree
in Recreation and Leisure Studies
Purpose
The purpose of this project was to produce a guide to frequently needed and used commercial enterprises in the
San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles accessible to consumers using wheelchairs. This guide may facilitate their participation in the mainstream of society.
A Guide for Orthopedically Disabled Consumers
Five categories of commercial establishments were selected as being among the most used on a regular basis.
They were department stores, grocery supermarkets, restaurants, theatres and special attractions. Criteria
v for listing included the following, where appropriate: accessible parking, availability of restrooms wide enough to accomodate a wheelchair, drinking fountains and tele-· phone at wheelchair height, aisles wide enough for wheel chairs, ramped curbs and level entry.
Selections for inclusions were made only from enter prises advertising in the yellow pages of the San Fernando
Valley telephone directories. Nearly seventy listings were included, covering four geographical areas, East Valley,
North Valley, Mid Valley and West Valley.
Methodology
Selections were made to obtain the_ widest geographical coverage in each of the four sections of the valley.
Listings were selected on that basis if all other criteria had been met.
Telephone calls were made to all, or in some cases such as restaurants, where there were several hundred listings, a representative number of listings, to ascertain if the criteria had been met. In most cases, a personal visit followed to each establishment claiming __to_ meet the criteria. Only after confirmation, was an enterprise listed.
Verification was to have been done by students in a
CSUN therapeutic recreation class but they were unable to visit all sites. Validation was done by non-students.
Findings Nearly seventy commercial enterprises in the San
v,i Fernando Valley, accessible to wheelchair users are listed in this guide. The West Valley area has the greatest number, with the North Valley having the fewest and in one category, none at all. Vital features such as restrooms, drinking fountains and telephones, accessible to wheelchair users, are lacking in many locations includ ing several major department stores and well-known res taurants. However, most enterprises, even those lacking other facilities, now have special parking for the disabled often with special marking.
In general, most of the accessible enterprises are located in newer buildings, those constructed within the past seven or eight years.
Recommendations
The need for updating this guide at least yearly seems vital, since there is continual turnover in commer cial enterprises, especially restaurants. It is suggested that this function be undertaken by outside service groups or recreation students as a class assignment.
The guide may be further extended to include addition al categories such as drug stores and home improvement centers.
Disabled consumers who as a group wield sizable econ omic power need to insist on the right of access as well as facilities which meet their special needs in those establishments which they patronize. All structures open to the public at large should be fully accessible to all consumers, not just the able bodied.
v~ii INTRODUCTION
Chapter I
Rationale (Purpose)
The purpose of this guide is to reduce frustration and make life easier and less complicated for the ortho pedically disabled person in conducting daily activities.
This guide to frequently needed and utilized commercial establishments accessible to wheelchair users may facili tate their participation in the mainstream of society. 2
OUT AND ABOUT THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY
Chapter I
Statement of the problem:
It has become apparent in recent years that the energy resources of the United States are neither as limitless nor as inexpensive as they once appeared. Fuel conserva tion has become a necessity and advance planning takes on a far greater importance.
For the orthopedically disabled consumer, planning ahead is even more vital. Too often, after reaching-one's destination, access may be impeded or prevented by archi tectural or other barriers. Interior barriers as well, including actual physical layout, placement of displays, counters, racks, tables and shelves may also prove frustra ting. If one had advance information such frustration might be avoided. It was from this premise that this guide to barrier free establishments was planned.
Significance of the problem:
After too many years of being ignored, the rights of the disabled population to benefits of society according to the non-disabled are being recognized. The Rehabili tation Act of 1973, Public Law, Sections 93-112 mandates the right of disabled persons to unimpeded access to all public buildings. The law is retroactive to 1974 and allows eight years to comply. 3
There is a growing awareness by business that the disabled population constitutes a sizeable group of con sumers with a significant purchasing power. It seems likely that these consumers would prefer to patronize establishments providing for their special needs.
This guide recognizes, locates and lists such estab lishments. 4
Definition of Terms
Definition of the following terms are from the New
Standard Dictionary of the English Language, published by
Funk and Wagnalls and Random House Dictionary of the Eng- lish Language Unabridged, published by Random House, New
York, 1967.
Accessible: providing access, capable of being used
as an entrance.
Commercial: having profit as the primary aim.
Disabled: crippled, injured, incapacitated.
Enterprise: venture, undertaking, project, purpose-
ful activity, i.e., a business or
restaurant.
Establishment: something established.
Handicapped: one having a disadvantage that makes
achievement unusually difficult, such as
a physical disability that limits capa-
city to work.
Mainstream: the prevailing current of activity or
influence.
Normalization: the process of conforming to the standard
or common type.
Orthopedic: pertaining to, affected by, or involving
deformity or crippling.
San Fernando the incorporated area of Los Angeles Valley: comprising the following communities: 5
Sun Valley, North Hollywood, Toluca Lake,
Studio City, Universal City, Panorama
City, Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, Chatsworth,
Reseda, Northridge, Canoga Park, llilinnetka,
Woodland Hills, Tarzana, Encino, Sylmar,
Granada Hills, Mission Hills, Sepulveda,
Lake View Terrace, Pacoima, Arleta.
Special Attractions:
Distinct or particular enterprise which
draws, attracts, allures or entices. 6
Limitations
An arbitrary choice of area, the San Fernando Valley section of the incorporated city of Los Angeles, and restriction of types of establishments evaluated to five categories were the principal limitations of this project.
There are various other kinds of enterprises that could have been selected such as beauty salons, banks, drug stores, etc., but such extensive evaluation was not feasible.
Another limitation was the primary focus on the ortho pedically disabled consumer. Though, persons with other disabilities such as blindness, deafness, etc., could also use a guide appropriate for their special needs. 7
Basic Assumptions
Legislation has mandated the rights of the disabled to unimpeded access to public buildings, along with the main streaming of disabled students in regular classrooms when ever possible.
These facts, as well as, the recent "Year of the Dis abled" have focused attention on a sizeable segment of society whose needs have frequently been overlooked or subordinated.
There is an increasing awareness by business and industry of the disabled as a significant consumer group for basic necessities, as well as leisure, recreation, and luxury items. Especially during times of economic stress, this potential source of revenue cannot be ig nored.
It seems reasonable to assume that disabled consumers, given a choice, would prefer to patronize establishments which best cater to their special needs.
Some business firms have recognized this and taken steps to provide an accessible and accomodating environ ment for their disabled customers. REVIEW OF CURRENT LITERATURE
Chapter II
The literature reviewed in this project is concerned with three major areas. The first, existing guides, cons ists of directories of services or locations of special interest to disabled people. The second, importance of independence, reviews works concerned with ways and means disabled persons may live as independently as possible.
The final section surveys various aspects of mainstream+ ing, including the legal mandate for it.
Existing Guides:
Several directories of services available to the disabled focus mainly on recreation and or health services.
Christiansen (1978) lists public and private agencies providing services and programs, along with information pertaining to specific topics such as travel, creative leisure activities and modification of sports and crafts to accomodate disabilities.
Strem (1980) is concerned primarily with public and private recreation attractions in the Orange County area.
A booklet prepared by the Junior League of Los
Angeles (1974) lists places of interest in the greater
Los Angeles area such as parks, museums, etc., with information about access and facilities. It is available in both English and Spanish and given free to the dis abled as a community service. 9
There are, however, no guides to commercial
establishments accessible to the orthopedically disabled
in the San Fernando Valley.
The Importance of Independence:
One of the most powerful urges in people is to become
an independent being. As one progresses from infancy to
adulthood, each stage is usually marked by ever greater manifestations of independence. For the disabled person, however, too often this independence of action is restrict ed by physical limitations. Of the three authors whose work is reviewed in this section, two are themselves disabled.
Hale (1979) presents information pertinent to ·all aspects of daily living and reinforces the idea that dis abled persons are entitled to and can enjoy far greater independence and fulfillment than thought possible.
Gilbert (1973), multiple sclerosis victim and mother of four, offers practical ideas and methods of managing household and family duties from a wheelchair. The book is based on her own experiences and aims to convince the reader that a disabled homemaker can be nearly inde pendent in conducting her duties if some modifications in her environment are made.
Too often a wheelchair occupant is viewed by others as one who is homebound, unable to travel without great difficulty. Nelson (1975) dispels this picture by re- 10 counting his own experience touring independently in a modified V W sedan. The main focus is on travel and camp ing, and Nelson gives information on topics ranging from flexible scheduling to baking with a reflector oven. His personal observations add interest to this useful volume.
Mainstreaming:
The word mainstream is not in common use, among the literature cited in this study.
In order to become a part of the mainstream, a dis abled person must first have access to the same places as the non-disabled. Several articles and books have dealt with this topic though Bruch (1978) emphasizes informed consumerism and gives advice on such diverse topics as com municating effectively with government agencies, obtaining funding for business enterprises, voting, air travel, as well as how to complain successfully. Printed in large type, the book stresses the premise that the disabled are entitled to the same goods and services as anyone else, and are the world's largest minority group (roughly 400 million) . ~hey have a staggering amount of money to be spent on consumer goods and services, and need to be alert, informed and demand their rights.
Bowe (1978) indicates that there are an estimated 14 to 50 million Americans with mobility limitations. He states that for every dollar spent in the rehabilitation of the disabled, about nine dollars are returned in taxes. 11
He cited Mainstream Inc.'s estimate that the cost of making a building fully accessible to the disabled adds only about one percent additional to the cost of construc tion.
According to Doherty and Fiorito (1981) most disabled people accept their disability and live with no more or less stress or conflict than non-disabled. Neither of the disabled have any special personality or emotional prob lems.
When the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Sec. 405' mandated that all federally-aided activities must be available to the disabled as explained by Elmos (1978), it was believed that mainstreaming would proceed smoothly. In the report of Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (1974), Reese
Robran, executive director of the American Coalition of
Citizens with Disabilities, hailed the Rehabilitation Act as a major victory, believing that the disabled citizen would finally become part of mainstream America, without the cost of compliance ever becoming a factor of considera tion.
However, in the ensuing years the costs of providing special services for the disabled have escalated to a degree unforeseen and many communities face bankruptcy of their transportation systems if such mandated services as bus lifts and train and subway elevators are implemented.
As Thorton (1981) points out, even when such services are 12
available, very few use them, noting that specially
equipped busses in Los Angeles average only four riders
daily. Thorton cites Arthur Teele, Jr., director of the
United States Department of Transportation, as advocating
local options such as the use of vans or subsidized taxi
service.
Strangely enough, the government has often defied its
own mandate concerning access. An article in the L.A.
Times (1979} states that although the law guarantees access
to all buildings used by government agencies, of the 10,000
buildings utilized by the government in 1979, 7,000 were
leased and would not be brought up to compliance for at
least another five years.
Gatty (1981} describes disabled workers as a group, as
highly motivated, reliable and competent, with a low
absentee rate. However, business is often reluctant to
hire them, claiming it too costly. Gatty disproves this
and points out that it can actually make good fiscal sense
to hire or train the disabled worker since there is often
a government subsidy for doing so.
Employment has always been considered one of the
principal means of entering the mainstream. Unfortunately,
obtaining it is a major obstacle, especially during times
of economic difficulty. Angel (1969} has listed hundreds
of occupations and their requirements, open to disabled
persons. The book does not explain, however, how to be
awarded a job, nor does it assure the probability of a .. 13. qualified disabled person being hired.
It is obvious from the literature reviewed that the problem of mainstreaming the disabled population is far from solved. In fact, there is not even solid agreement that mainstreaming is a valid goal. Jameson (1981) dis closes that there seems to be some feeling among the general population that by providing special benefits and services to the disabled, those available to the general population would be reduced or eliminated. He feels that militants among the disabled population have distorted the issue from mobility, access and mainstreaming to de manding special rights and privileges. 14
SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW
The review of literature summarizes several pertinent facts. It emphasizes that independence can be achieved to a great degree by disabled persons through modifications in the environment, combined with strong personal motiva-· tion.
Mainstreaming appears to depend on a number of factors, among them being access, mobility, and opportunities for education and employment. Social and economic implica tions, along with attitudes and perceptions of both disabled and non-disabled populations are other vital elements in the success or failure of mainstreaming.
The reference and guide books reviewed present infor mation on diverse topics ranging from location of histori cal monuments, availability of special health services, through achieving sexual gratification through mechnical aids.
Most of the literature reviewed is useful to disabled persons. In some instances, however, the information presented is obsolete, delineating the need for ongoing research and availability of current information. METHODOLOGY
Chapter III
In planning this guide, it was determined that it would be most useful to the disabled reader to include those goods and services most used on a regular, ongoing basis.
Research disclosed that guides to health services, commun ity services and points of interest had been written.
There was no evidence, of any guide to commercial estab lishments, with special provision for the disabled in the
San Fernando Valley.
After observation and consultation, the following categories were selected as being most useful to disabled consumers: Restaurants, Theatres, Department Stores,
Grocery Supermarkets, Attractions. Investigation showed no sports facilities or legitimate theatres accessible to wheelchair users other than those in public parks, schools, colleges and c.s.u.N. Location was the primary factor in determining which establishments were selected. Obtaining as broad a geographical coverage as possible was the goal, since size limitations prohibited the inclusion of every establish ment.
The Valley was divided into four divisions: east val ley, mid valley, north valley and west valley. Listings in each area were included in each category, where poss ible. Accessible facilities did not exist in all areas.
~5 16
The north valley in particular seemed to have a dearth of accessible establishments in nearly every category, while the west valley seemed to have an adequate number.
The yellow pages of the telephone directories of the valley editions of Pacific and General Telephone Companies were used to compile the lists of establishments from those advertising.
Telephone calls were made to listed establishments to determine if they met the criteria for inclusion. In some categories every listing was called. In the case of restaurants, listings were called at random based on location, since there were too many to contact every one.
In nearly every instance a personal visit was made to those places claiming to meet the criteria. Revisions were made as needed and listings are current at the time of publi cation.
In the case of theatre listings, a personal visit was made to each. Every theatre listed in all valley direct ories was inspected. 17
ACCESSIBILITY CRITERIA
The accessibility criteria used to select those establishments included in this guide are fully explained in Chapter IV. Each category (Restaurants, Theatres, etc.) has specific requirements for listing. While accessible parking and level entry are requirements in every category, other factors may vary.
The criteria selected was chosen because it appeared to be the minimum basic requirement vital to a disabled person. 18
Strategies for Use:
It is anticipated that this guide will become a most useful and practical source of information for the disabled consumer.
It is envisioned as being printed in booklet form, approximately 5 by 8 inches in size, about 25 pages in length. A major problem in completing this project was the necessity for constant updating as there is frequent turnover in commercial establishments. To be of value to the consumer, listings must be as current as possible.
There are several means of keeping listings current.
A sponsoring organization, such as the Easter Seal Society, could assume publication and enlist its volunteers to keep listings current. C.S.U.N. Therapeutic Recreation majors could undertake updating as a class assignment or project.
Still another method might involve organizing a group such as "Friends of the Disabled" solely for the purpose of checking listings and keeping them current.
A yearly supplement to the original guide will be needed if the material is to have sufficient value. In order to avoid the need for constant revision, listing selections were made from well established organizations whenever possible. Unfortunately, the majority of the long established enterprises were located in buildings which did not meet requirements of this guide. Newer enterprises, on the other hand, are guided by the 19
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 in providing accomodations for the disabled.
Distribution of this guide may be initiated through organizations working with the disabled such as the
Easter Seal Society, Veterans Administration, hospital and outpatient rehabilitation services, as well as, school, college, university and public libraries. If funding can be obtained from a philanthropic source, the booklet could be distributed free of charge. If not, perhaps the guide may be purchased in book stores, markets and drug stores, as well as, through the abovenamed groups. OUT AND ABOUT THE VALLEY:
A shopping guide for the disabled consumer in the San Fernando Valley section of Los Angeles
The San Fernando Valley, once the site of expansive cattle ranches, verdant pumpkin fields and fragrant orange groves, has grown into one of the largest population centers in the United States. More than a million people live in this "city within a city" located just north of
Los Angeles proper. Separated by mountains, the Valley is linked to the central city by heavily traveled free ways and passes. Roughly 143 square miles in area, it is about the size of the city of Detroit.
In an area this large and sprawling, locating business establishments equipped to accomodate the special needs of the disabled patron can be both time and energy consuming.
With that in mind, this guide was written to make the task easier. Categories of goods and services offered are as follows:
1. Department and Discount Stores
2. Grocery Supermarkets
3. Restaurants
4. Theatres -movies, legitimate, cabaret type
5. Special Attractions and Sports
For convenience, the Valley is divided into four geographical areas: East Valley, Mid Valley, North Valley,
20 21
and West Valley. Only those communities actually a part of the incorporated city of Los Angeles are included.
Whenever possible, at least one listing in every category is given for each area.
All listings were selected from those advertising in the Yellow Pages of the San Fernando Valley directories of the Pacific Telephone Company and General Telephone Com pany. No evaluation or endorsement of goods or services offered is implied, nor is there any desire to favor any particular ownership or group. Selections were made sole ly on the basis of location and accessibility. While every effort was made to assure a fair representation of adver tisers, the primary goal of this guide was to obtain the broadest geographical coverage within each category for the convenience of the reader. SAN FERNANDO VALLEY (not to scale)
NoRTH \MLLC:Y
BURBANK WEST VALleY
EAST VALLEY WEST VALLEY(cont'd)
Sun Valley Canoga Park North Hollywood Winnetka Toluca Lake Reseda Studio City Woodland Hills Universal City Tarzana Encino MID VALLEY NORTH VALLEY Panorama City Van Nuys Sylmar Sherman Oaks Granada Hills Mission Hills WEST VALLEY Sepulveda Lake View Terrace Chatsworth Pacoima Northridge Arleta Canoga Park 23
DEPARTMENT AND DISCOUNT STORES
All of the stores listed in this section have special features to make shopping easier for their disabled custo- mers. These include the following:
Convenient, close to the entrance parking. Most have
specially marked stalls reserved for the disabled with
ramped curbs if needed.
Restrooms have at least one stall which can accomodate
a wheelchair.
At least one drinking fountain at wheelchair height
is provided.
At least one telephone at wheelchair height is on the
premises or assistance will be provided if requested.
When the building is more than one story high, there is an elevator. Note: Many elevator control buttons are out of reach of the wheelchair user or too dimly lit to be seen by those with poor vision. It is suggested that an elevator be boarded with other passengers.
Some of the stores may provide fitting rooms which are able to accomodate a wheelchair. It is suggested that regular patrons of any particular store request such accomodations from the management. Nearly all stores have ' entrance doors which must be pushed or pulled to enter or exit, making them difficult to use without assistance for those in wheelchairs. 24
Department Stores
North Valley:
Gemco
17055 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Granada Hills
363-7491
Mid Valley:
Broadway
14060 Riverside Drive, Sherman Oaks
995-8991
Bullocks
14000 Riverside Drive, Sherman Oaks
788-8350
May Co.
15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
986-8110
Montgomery Ward
14665 Roscoe Blvd., Panorama City
982-0344
Robinsons
15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
501-3999
West Valley:
Broadway
2500 North Fashion Center, Northridge
885-7377 25
Bullocks
9300 Tampa Avenue, Northridge
885-6611
Bullocks Wilshire
80 The Promenade Mall, Woodland Hills
887-5151
May Co.
Topanga at Vanowen, Canoga Park
883-7211
(Fountain outside store proper in mall)
Mervyn's
8800 Corbin Avenue, Northridge
701-7860
East Valley:
Gem co
11051 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood
760-2810
Mervyn's
8500 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Sun Valley
768-1322
North Valley:
None at this time 26
GROCERY SUPERMARKETS
Since there are nearly 200 markets in the Valley, only a representative listing can be given. In most cases, stores within the same chain have similar facilities, except in the case of those located in older, unremodeled buildings.
Every effort was made to assure fair representation of companies, but the primary factor in listing was to pre sent the broadest geographical coverage within each area.
In order to be listed in this guide, supermarkets must meet the following criteria:
Convenient parking, with ramped curbs, if needed, is
provided.
The store must have a level entry with doors which
need not be pushed to enter or exit.
If turnstiles are used, there are alternate means of
entry or exit.
Check out assistance is provided when requested.
Aisles are wide enough for wheelchair use.
Much merchandise is within reach of the unassisted
wheelchair user. (It is unlikely that all goods will
be accessible, however.) 27
Grocery Supermarkets
North Valley:
Alpha Beta
12689 Glenoaks Blvd., Sylmar
367-9824
Hughes
16940 Devonshire, Granada Hills
Ralphs
10400 Sepulveda, Mission Hills
365-3289
Vons
9011 Woodman , Pacoima
892-7100 892-9076 Meat
Mid Valley:
Albert sons
13630 Victory, Van Nuys
994-8835
Dales
6821 Lennox, Van Nuys
781-1310
Hughes
14620 Parthenia, Panorama City
894-2243
Safeway
14845 Ventura, Sherman Oaks
872-0388 28
West Valley:
Albert sons
19725 Vanowen, Canoga Park
348-9553
Gel sons
5500 Reseda Blvd., Tarzana
345-6882
Ralphs
17800 Ventura Blvd., Encino
345-6882
Vons
23351 Mulholland Drive, Woodland Hills
888-1220
East Valley:
Lucky Discount
13051 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood
760-3754
Ralphs
8325 Laurel Canyon, Sun Valley
768-0377
Smiths Food King
8035 Webb Avenue, North Hollywood
767-2234
Thriftimart
6140 Lankershim, North Hollywood
980-0475 29
RESTAURANTS
More than 400 restaurants are listed in the Valley telephone directories and it was not possible to evaluate all of them. Only those offering full "sit down service" were considered. As in the other sections of this guide, broad geographical coverage was the primary consideration for inclusion.
No prices can be given, nor is there any implication of evaluation of either food or service. Some of the restaurants do provide reduced portions at lower cost for children and/or senior citizens. It is suggested that one check with the management of a particular establishment to find out if these are available.
To be included in this guide all restaurants must meet the following requirements:
Convenient, lighted when necessary, parking is pro
vided, with ramped curbs if needed.
Entry is level or ramped if required, with doors wide
enough to accomodate a wheelchair.
There is enough space inside the restaurant to manuever
wheelchair.
A restroom is provided with at least one stall wide
enough to accomodate a wheelchair, located on the main
floor, or with elevator provided. 30
When one restaurant in a 'Chain is listed as providing accomodations for disabled patrons, it is not necessarily true that all in the chain have the same type of facilities.
Checking with the management is advised before a visit. 31
Restaurants
North Valley:
Bob's Big Boy
10841 Sepulveda, Mission Hills
365-9950
Fisher's Cove {Seafood)
18037 Chatsworth, Granada Hills
368-3796
Happy Steak
12631 Glenoaks, Sylmar
367-7715 {waitress will assist)
Sutter's Mill
11054 Sepulveda, So. Mission Hills
361-7151
Mid Valley:
Alphy's
14445 Sherman Way, Van Nuys
997-8234
Carmela's {entertainment)
4449 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys
995-9532
Elite Restaurant {Israeli)
14611~ Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
990-9532 32
Restaurants (continued)
Mid Valley:
Hamburger Hamlet
4419 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks
784-1183
Jo Jo's (Mexican)
13733 Roscoe Blvd., Van Nuys
786-3966
Old Hildelberg (German)
13726 Oxnard, Van Nuys
997-9396
Que Pasa (Mexican)
14433~ Ventura Blvd., Panorama City
990-5860
Seafood Broiler (Seafood)
8600 Van Nuys Blvd., Panorama City
891-5602
Skinny Haven (diet)
8516 Van Nuys Blvd., Panorama City
893-9736
West Valley:
Beef N Barrel
8920 Tampa, Northridge
885-1055 33
Restaurants (continued)
West Valley:
Castagnola's Lobster House (seafood)
21911 Roscoe Blvd., Canoga Park
887-1692
Don Riccardo's (Mexican)
9301 Tampa, Northridge
886-7735
El Torito (Mexican)
8855 Tampa, Northridge
349-1607
Golden Bowl (Chinese)
16733 Ventura Blvd., Encino
995-3500
Good Earth (health)
17212 Ventura Blvd., Encino
986-9990
Josephina's (pizza, entertainment)
8930 Corbin, Northridge
349-3030
Red Onion
6424 Canoga Avenue, Woodland Hills
340-5653
East Valley:
Colony Kitchen
13075 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood 34
Restaurants (continued)
985-7759
Fung Lum (Chinese)
222 Universal Terrace Pky., Universal City
760-4603
Hobo Joe
13136 Sherman Way, North Hollywood
765-0689
Los Arcos (Mexican)
8431 Sunland, Sun Valley
767-4240
Rusty's Hacienda (Mexican)
6439 Lankershim, North Hollywood
761-5176
Sportsman's Lodge
12833 Ventura Blvd., Studio City
877-9846 984-0202
Victoria Station
3850 Lankershim, Universal City
760-0714 35
THEATRES
In addition to the commercial theatres listed in this guide, performances are frequently presented in various school, college and university auditoriums in the San
Fernando Valley. Information regarding some specific locations can be obtained by calling that facility.
All theatres listed must meet the following criteria:
Convenient parking is provided, with ramped entry
if needed.
Restrooms are on the main floor, unless there is an
elevator. At least one stall wide enough to accomodate
a wheelchair is available.
Aisles within the theatre are wide enough to accomo
date a wheelchair.
Placement of wheelchair patrons must provide a good,
unobstructed view of the stage or screen, as well as
good acoustics. 36
Theatres
North Valley:
There are none at the present time.
Mid Valley:
Cinema I and II
4500 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks
986-9660
Cinema III, IV, and V
14424 Milbank, Sherman Oaks
981-2437
Pacific Galleria (4 theatres)
15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
West Valley:
Cinema I, II, III
9301 Tampa, Northridge
993-0111
Movies of Tarzana
18632 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana
996-1300 (parking around corner in bank)
Peppertree 3 Cinemas
10155 Reseda, Northridge
993-0211
Town and Country Cinemas
17200 Ventura Blvd., Encino
981-2130 37
Theatres (continued)
West Valley:
U.A. Movies
6031 Canoga Avenue, Canoga Park
999-2130
East Valley:
U.A. Movies
6355 Bellingham, North Hollywood
766-4317 38
SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS
Nearly all special attractions, such as amusement
parks and the Music Center, as well as all professional
sports events are located outside the Valley. However,
Valley educational institutions are frequently the locale
for collegiate, high school and semi-professional sport
ing events, such as baseball, basketball, football and
soccer games. Not all those sites are equipped to accomo
date disabled spectators and it would be prudent to check
specific locations.
Information concerning attractions outside the Valley
can be obtained by writing for a booklet published for the
disabled entitled "Around the Town". Send 25 cents in
stamps to cover cost of mailing to:
Junior League of Los Angeles
Farmers Market, Third and Fairfax
Los Angeles, CA 90036 (specify English or Spanish)
One exception was made in listing Six Flags Magic
Mountain, which is actually in Valencia. It is included
because it is nearby and easily reached from the Valley
by auto, without going through Los Angeles proper.
The attractions given in this guide provide the
following accomodations for handicapped visitors:
Convenient, accessible parking, with level entry or
ramped entry when necessary, is available. 39
Restrooms convenient to wheelchair users, large enough to enter easily are provided.
Drinking fountains and telephones are easily reached by wheelchair patrons. 40
Special Attractions
San Fernando Valley:
Universal Studios
100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City
877-1311
Valencia:
Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia
992-0884 (recorded information)
1 (805) 255-4111 (direct line) FIELD TESTING
Chapter V
Procedure
Field testing was to have been completed by Robert
Winslow's therapeutic recreation students as a class
assignment. Material in the form of check sheets was
submitted to the class early in September, and students were asked to visit each site, evaluate it as if they were in a wheelchair and report their findings.
The evaluation forms provided space to rate each
listing for the following specifications where appropriate:
accessible, convenient parking, rest rooms wide enough for
a wheelchair, water fountain at wheelchair height or drink
ing water provided at no charge, and telephone provided
at wheelchair height, aisles wide enough for wheelchairs,
ramped curbs and level entry. (See Appendix A)
Findings
Specific data is not reported since students were
unable to visit all sites. However, all data was valid
ated by non-students who inspected each location listed.
General findings are as follows:
1. the 68 commercial enterprises in the San
Fernando Valley listed in this guide conform to accessi
bility specifications.
2. The West Valley area has the greatest number, with the North Valley having the fewest and in one
category, none at all.
41 42
3. Vital features such as restrooms, drinking fountains and telephones accessible to wheelchair users are lacking in many locations including several major department stores and well-known restaurants. Therefore these establishments are not listed in the guide.
4. Most enterprises now have special parking for the disabled, often with special marking.
5. Most of the accessible enterprises are located in newer buildings, those constructed within the past seven or eight years.
Table I provides a summary of the specific information found in the guide. I
TABLE I
Number of Commercial Enterprises by Geographical Location
Geographical Area
North Mid West East Department Stores 1 5 5 2
Grocery/ Supermarkets 4 4 4 4
Restaurants 4 9 8 7
Theatres 0 3 5 1
*Special Attractions
*Six Flags Magic Mountain is located outside the San
Fernando Valley SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, RECO~~ENDATIONS CHAPTER VI SUMMARY
This project was conceivedwithfue object of facili tating the participation of persons using wheelchairs in the mainstream of society by locating the most frequently needed and used commercial enterprises fully accessible to them. Since disabled consumers wield sizable economic power it is hoped they will use that power to influence all enterprises to insure their right of access and accomodation.
The purpose of this project was to provide a valid guide to commercial enterprises providing accessible accomodations for disabled consumers using wheelchairs.
The purpose has been met, since enterprises in each category selected; department stores, grocery supermarkets, restaurants, theatres and other attractions have been listed after being inspected and found to comply with the standards defined.
The process used in completing this project consisted of several steps. First,an arbitrary decision was made as to the types of enterprises to be included. Through observation and discussion with both disabled persons and faculty members, the categories deemed most useful, because of necessity and frequency of use, were selected.
The area to be surveyed, the San Fernando Valley section
~3 44
of the city of Los Angeles was divided into four sections:
East Valley, North Valley, Mid Valley and West Valley was
·next. Using the yellow pages of all telephone directories
serving the area, the researcher called enterprises in
each category. Those seeming to meet the factors previous
ly mentioned were visited. If they met the requirements
they were then listed in the guide.
CONCLUSIONS
This guide lists nearly seventy commercial enterprises
in the San Fernando Valley which meet accessibility and accomodation requirements of consumers using wheelchairs.
The greater number of such facilities are located
in the West Valley area. The fewest are in the North
Valley section, and in one category, theatre, there are none at all.
Several major department stores and well known restaurants lack such vital features as restrooms, tele phones and where needed, drinking fountains accessible to patrons confined to wheelchairs.
Most enterprises, even those lacking other facilities, provide accessible parking for disabled consumers. usually there are specially marked stalls with ramps if required.
The majority of commercial enterprises meeting accessibility criteria for disabled consumers are located in newer buildings those built after 1974. Very few 45
older structures have been modified to accomodate customers using wheelchairs.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations pertain to future projects of this type:
1. Field testing would have most validity if done by persons actually using wheelchairs.
2. Funding would be most helpful to facilitate validation of information. It would reimburse cost of transportation for validators, as well as the actual costs involved in the use of facilities to be surveyed.
3. To be of even greater use, any future guide might include additional categories such as drug stores, home improvement centers and sports attractions.
4. A procedure for yearly updating, publishing and distribution should be established. Perhaps tnis could be undertaken by a foundation or a group or groups aiding the disabled. Availability of the guide free or at very low cost to all who would find it useful should be the object.
5. The ultimate goal of this project would be for all enterprises open to the public to be fully accessible to those using wheelchairs as well as the able bodied. BIBLIOGRAPHY
American Association for Advancement of Science. Legal
requirements of innovative technology. Symposium,
Science and Technology and the Handicapped, 1976.
Angel, Juvenal L. Employment Opportunities for the
Handicapped. New York: World Trade Academy Press, Inc.,
1969.
Bowe, Frank. Handicapping America: Barriers to Disabled
People. New York: Harper and Row., 1978.
Bruck, Lilly~ Access: The Guide to a Better Life for the
Disabled. Orangeburg, New York: Consumers Union, 1978.
Christiansen, Mickey. A Directory of Leisure Studies for
the Physically Handicapped. Los Angeles:nd.
Doherty, J. and Fiorito, E. Most disabled people accept
disability. Glamour, My 82, 80, pp. 162.
Eckhardt, Elizabeth. Independent Living for the Handi
capped. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1974.
Elmos, Diana. A Handbook on Legal Rights of Handicapped
People. U.S. President's Committee on Employment of the
handicapped, Law and Legislation in D.C., Virginia,
and Maryland, 1978.
Gatty, B. Business finds profit in hiring the disabled.
Nation's Business, Aug. 81, 69 {30-2).
46 47
Gilbert, Arlene E. You Can Do It From A Wheelchair.
New Rochelle, N.Y.: Arlington House Publishers, 1973.
Hale, Glorya. The Source Book for the Disabled. N.Y.,
London: Paddinton Press Ltd., 1979.
Jameson, Fenton. The great wheelchair controversy.
Readers Digest. Aug. 1981.
Junior League of Los Angeles. Around the Town. Los
Angeles: Junior League of Los Angeles, 1974.
Nelson, John C. Wheelchair Vagabond. Santa Monica, Ca.:
Project Press, 1975.
Public Law Sec. 93-112 and 94-142. Rehabilitation Act
of 1973.
Reich, A.E. Statement, international year of disabled
persons, worldwide response. Dept. of State Bulletin,
1982 (March) ~' 58-60.
Strem, Linda. Accessibility of Selected Recreational
Facilities in Orange County, 1980.
Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. First Report
to the Congress of U.S. Concerning Transportation and
Barriers. Washington D.C.: H.E.W., 1974.
L.A. Times. U.S. ignoring own rules on handicapped. Wed.
Mar. 2 8, 19 7 9.
Thorton, J. Equal access, it seemed like a good idea.
U.S. News and World Report, July 20, 1981, 91 45.
• 0 APPENDIX A
48 49
RESTAURANTS Criteria for inclusion in this guide include the following: parking available with ramps if needed (P), level or ramped entry with door wide enough for wheelchair (E), rest room wide enough for wheelchair on main floor or elevator provided (R) .
NAME p· E. R North Valley:
Sutter's Mill 11054 Sepulveda, Mission Hls. 361-7151
Bob's Big Boy 10841 Sepulveda, Mission Hls. 365-9950 '
Fisher's Cove (seafood) 18037 Chatsworth, Granada Hills 368-3796
Happy Steak 12631 Glenoaks, Sylmar 367-7715 (waitress will assist)
Mid Valley:
Alphys 14445 Sherman Way, Van Nuys 997-8234
Old Heidelberg (German) 13726 Oxnard, Van Nuys 997-9396
Skinny Haven (diet) 8516 Van Nuys Blvd. Panorama City 893-9736 50
Restaurants (continued)
NAME p E R Mid Valley:
Que Pasa (Mexican) 14433~ Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks 990-5860
Seafood Broiler (seafood) 8600 Van Nuys Blvd. P.C. 891-5602
Elite Restaurant (Israeli) 14611~ Ventura Blvd., s. 0. 990-9532 - Carmela's (entertainment) 4449 Van Nuys Blvd., s.o. 995-9532
Hamburger Hamlet 4419 Van Nuys Blvd. Van Nuys 784-1183
Jo Jo's (Mexican) 13733 Roscoe Blvd. Van Nuys 786-3966 west Valley:
Castagnola's Lobster House 21911 Roscoe Blvd., C.P, 786-3966
Beef N Barrel 8920 Tampa,Northridge 885-1055
Red Onion 6424 Canoga Ave. w. Hls. 340-5653 51
NAME p E R
Mid Valley:
El Torito (Mexican) 8855Tampa, w. Hls. 349-1607
Josephina's (pizza,entertain.) 8930 Corbin, Northridge 349-3030
Golden Bowl (Chinese) 16733 Ventura , Encino 995-3500
Good Earth (healthy) 17212 Ventura, Encino 986-9990
Don Riccardo's (Mexican) 9301 Tampa, Northridge 886-7735
East Valley:
Colony Kitchen 13075 Victory Blvd., No. H. 985-7759
Sportsman's Lodge 12833 Ventura Blvd. S.C. 877-9846 984-0202
Victoria Station 3850 Lankershim N.H. Univ. c. 760-0714
Rusty's Hacienda (Mexican) 6439 Lankershim N.H. 761-5176 52
NAME p E R
Hobo Joe's 13136 Sherman Way, N.H. 765-0689
Fung Lum (Chinese} 222 Universal Terrace Pky. u.c. 760-4603
Los Arcos (Mexican} 8431 Sunland, s.v. 767-4240 53
DEPARTMENT STORES
All stores listed provide the following feature for ortho pedically handicapped persons, especially those using wheel chairs: convenient parking (P), at least one rest room for men and women has a stall wide enough for a wheelchair (R) , at least one drinking fountain at wheelchair height is available or water is provided at no charge from the res taurant (W). If a telephone at wheelchair height is avail able it will be coded (T). However, it is not a require ment for listing.
NAME p R ~v T
Bullocks 9301 Tampa, Northridge 885-6611
Bullocks 14000 Riverside Dr., Sherman Oaks 788-8350
Bullocks Wilshire 80 The Promednade Mall W. Hls. 887-5151
Broadway 2500 North Fashion Ctr, Nor. 885-7377
Broadway 14060 Riverside Dr. s.o. 995-8991
Gemco 17055 S.F. Mission Bl. G Hls. 363-7491
Gemco 11051 Victory Blvd. N.H. 760-2810
May Co. 15301 Ventura Blvd. s.o. 986-8110 54
DEPARTMENT STORES (continued}
NAME p R w T May Co. Topanga at Vanowen, C. Park 883-7211 (Fountain outside store in mall}
Montgomery Ward 14665 Roscoe, P.C. 982-0344
Mervyns 8501 Laurel Cyn. Sun Val. 768-1322
Mervyns 8800 Corbin, Northridge 701-7860
Robinsons 15301 Ventura Blvd. s.o. 501-3999 55
THEATRES Criteria for listing in this guide include the following: Parking available, either self or valet, with ramps if needed (P), restroom wide enough to accomodate a wheelchair on first floor or elevator provided (R) , aisles in theatre wide enough for wheelchair (A) , unobstructed view of screen and good acoustics (V) .
NAME p R A v Mid Valley:
Cinema I and II 4500 Van Nuys Blvd., s.o. 986-9660
Cinema III, IV, v 14424 Milbank, s.o. 981-2437
Pacific Galleria (4 theatres) 15301 Ventura Blvd., s.o. 990-4140
West Valley:
Cinema I, II, III 9301 Tampa, Northridge 993-0111
Movies of Tarzana 18632 Ventura Blvd., Tar. 996-1300 public parking in back
Peppertree 3 Cinemas 10155 Reseda, Nor~ 993-0211
Town and Country Cinemas 17200 Ventura Blvd., Encino 981-9811
U.A. Movies 6031 Canoga Ave, C.P. 999-2130 56
THEATRES (continued)
NAME p R A v East Valley:
U.A. Movies 6355 Bellingham N.H. 766-4317 57
ATTRACTIONS
Criteria for listing include the following: Convenient parking with level entry or ramped entry when necessary (P), restrooms wide enough for wheelchair access are provided (R), drinking water is available either from fountains or at no charge from refreshment concessions (W) , telephone within reach or assistance given for use (T).
NAME p R w T
Six Flags Magic Mountain 26101 Magic Mountain Pky., Valencia 1 ( 805) 255-4111 Gen. info. 992-0884 recorded info.
Universal Studios 100 Universal City Plaza, u.c. 877-1311 58
GROCERY SUPERMARKETS
The criteria for listing in this guide includes the follow ing: convenient parking with ramped curbs if needed (P), level entry with doors which need not be pushed to enter or leave (E). If turnstiles are used there are alternate means of entry or exit, with assistance if needed (T), aisles are wide enough for wheelchair use (A) •
NAME p E T A
North Valley:
Alpha Beta 12689 Glenoaks Bl. Syl. 367-9824
Hughes 16940 Devonshire, G. Hls. 360-8323
Ralphs 10400 Sepulveda, Mis. Hls. 365-3298
Vons 9011 Woodman, Pac. 892-7100 Groc. 892-9076 Meat
Mid Valley:
Albertsons 13630 Victory, V.N. 994-8835
Dales 6821 Lennox, V.N. 781-1310
Hughes 14620 Parthenia, P.C. 894-2243 59
GROCERY SUPERMARKETS (continued}
NAME ·p E T A
Mid Valley
Safeway 14845 Ventura, s.o. 872-0388
West Valley:
Albert sons 19725 Vanowen, C.P. 348-9553
Gel sons 5500 Reseda, Tarzana 345-8121
Ralphs . 17800 Ventura, Encino 345-6882
Vons 23351 Mulholland Dr. w. Hls. 888-1220
East Valley:
Lucky 13051 Victory, N.H. 760-3754
Ralphs 8325 Laurel Cyn, s.v. 768-0377
Thriftimart 6140 Lankershim, N.H. 980-0475 60
GROCERY SUPERMARKETS (continued)
NAME p E T A East Valley: Smiths Food King 8035 Webb Ave. N.H. 767-2234