Award for Accessibility Goes To Frederick Bell

The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), as part of its Architecture Program, has awarded Frederick Bell their 2004 Barrier-Free America Award. Mr. Bell, currently the executive director of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) New York Chapter, has a long history of advocating accessibility for all citizens. His knowledge and influence were critical in bringing these issues into play during the planning for the reconstruction of lower Manhattan after 911.

The barrier Free America Award was first issued by the PVA in 2001. Previous winners include Cesar Pelli, architect of the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and Bob Vila, host of Bob Vila?EUR??,,????'???s Home Again. Mr. Vila received this award recognizing his work to provide public awareness for accessible architectural solutions for Americans with disabilities. PVA Architecture has developed an expertise in the wide variety of issues surrounding the special needs not only of their own members but people with spinal cord injuries, disease and dysfunction as well as the elderly.

It is estimated that over the next 25 years the number of Americans over the age of 50 will skyrocket?EUR??,,????'??+jumping from 47 million to a total of 115 million people. Adding this to the number of Americans with disabilities means that the need for accessible architectural designs will far outweigh the present demand.

The PVA promotes accessible architectural design through technical assistance services, standards of development, design guides, and building code initiatives that help architects build solutions into their plans not only for housing, but all public access areas such as work sites and commercial venues. These efforts increase housing and employment opportunities for veterans with disabilities and enhance the quality of life for all people with physical and age-related impairments. ?EUR??,,????'??Rick Bell continues to work with my Office for People with Disabilities to promote Universal Design principles and encourage the design community to exceed the minimum standards of accessibility,?EUR??,,????'?? said New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

The award was presented on April 16 in front of the Sphere in Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. ?EUR??,,????'??Having the privilege to work for design excellence and Universal Design with many talented colleagues in New York City, both at MOPD, at the NYC Department of Design and Construction, and now at the American Institute of Architects New York Chapter, allows me to accept the award with humility, recognizing that all significant change in design standards and building codes can only come through concerted and collaborative action,?EUR??,,????'?? said Bell.