The Town of Abington, located in Plymouth County, is home to approximately 17,000
residents. Among this population, an estimated 10.4 percent have a disability. According
to the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990), a disability is defined as a physical or mental
impairment that substantially limits one or more life activities. The most prevalent
disability types in town include cognitive difficulties (5.0 percent of residents), ambulatory
difficulties (4.2 percent of residents), and independent living difficulties (4.0 percent of
residents) (ACS, 2024).
Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) has prepared this ADA Transition Plan on behalf of
the Town of Abington as a means of better understanding the Town’s current level of
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This plan aims to better
support the ability of those with disabilities to more fully participate in the Abington
community. This document includes an assessment of municipal policies, programs,
services, activities, parks, and facilities, followed by a series of recommendations for
improvement in line with the most recent iteration of ADA Standards for Accessible Design
(2010) and the Massachusetts State Building Code 521 C.M.R.
As evidenced by this report, the Town of Abington is committed to understanding and
removing its barriers to accessibility. The ADA Transition Plan is not a static document but
rather acts as a benchmark and framework for improving accessibility throughout the
Town, requiring ongoing implementation and periodic updates.
In the development of this assessment, Old Colony Planning Council and the Town of
Abington have surveyed 14 public buildings and 10 Town Park and Playground facilities.
This survey considered an array of accessibility concerns, including parking, entrances,
access to goods and services, restrooms, and pathways. Community engagement also
shaped the planning process allowing staff to connect with residents and recognize
existing needs.
