The City of Fresno has launched a program to encourage businesses to become compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The Accessible Fresno Small Business Initiative will provide eligible small businesses with free Certified Access Specialist inspection services to identify construction-related accessibility issues and provide information to create a schedule for becoming complaint.

The Central Valley has the third most construction-related physical access complaints in the state, according to a city news release, and courts look favorably upon proactive businesses that have a plan of action to fix their building, even if the plan is not yet finished.

“Working side-by-side with businesses to help them understand and comply with health, safety, and consumer regulations is just one more way that Fresno is becoming even more business friendly,” said Mayor Lee Brand. “These resources will help to make sure our residents enjoy access to provide for their needs.”

Accessible Fresno also provide educational workshops and discussions forums for the business community. Outreach Business Partners include SCORE Central Valley, Downtown Fresno Partnership, Fresno Chamber of Commerce, Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board and Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation.

“The Administration is committed to work with our local business owners to make Fresno more accessible so that our city becomes a convenient and welcoming place for everyone,” said City Manager Wilma Quan-Schecter. “We’re providing businesses with the information and support needed to enhance accessibility and improve access.”

There is no cost to the business to apply or participate in Accessible Fresno. Interested businesses can view the eligibility requirements and apply online at fresno.gov/AccessibleFresno.