Gloucester’s Facilities Management Department has started work inside the colonial court circle to improve accessibility for visitors coming and going from the historic structures.

The project is being funded by federal grant dollars. The work will include an ADA (American with Disabilities Act)-approved ramp with handrails going from the entrance of the colonial courthouse to the entrance of the Visitor’s Center.

Steps with handrails will also be constructed leading to the ramp in front of the courthouse building. There will be a sloped walkway, providing direct ADA access from the Visitor’s Center to the courthouse. An enlarged brick area will be constructed in front of the Visitor’s Center to assist in thru-foot traffic circulation. Sidewalks throughout the court circle will be leveled to make for a safer experience for those visiting the historic buildings.

“This project has been one that we have been eagerly anticipating for quite a while,” said Gloucester’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director Katey Legg. “We are really excited to be able to ensure that our historic buildings are easily accessible to everyone in our community.”

The accessibility project is part of an ongoing improvement project aiming to protect the county’s historic assets. Completed projects include asbestos remediation and new flooring in the colonial courthouse and a conditions assessment of the original fireplaces in that same structure. Looking ahead, the county plans to execute a conditions assessment of the historic Botetourt Hotel, which houses the Gloucester Museum of History.

For more information regarding the improvements, follow Gloucester County, Virginia Government on Facebook at facebook.com/gloucesterva and Twitter at twitter.com/gloucesterva.