Would the planned alterations meet Code for accessibility? (Speculation)

THE STATE HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE provides alternative minimum standards for alterations of qualified historical buildings or facilities. The section for accessibility can be found HERE. 

Our historic sanctuary building does qualify for the allowances under this code, according to our 2003 Historic Structure Report. And now that we are contemplating genuine alterations—not merely repairs or rehabilitation—it seems timely to explore what the applicable accessibility standards are. 

Below the jump, this post explores three aspects of the accessibility standards and how they would apply in our situation.…

1.  Restrooms

PARAPHRASE:   The regular code requires separate-gender toilet facilities. In a historic building, however, an accessible unisex toilet facility may be designated instead (§8–603.5). 

COMMENT:   This option may come in handy as our restrooms are renovated, especially downstairs.

2.  Ramps

PARAPHRASE:   In a historic building, a ramp with a slope of 1:10 is allowed for horizontal distances of up to 5 feet. In extreme cases, a slope of 1:6 is allowed for up to 13 inches of horizontal distance. In either case, signs must be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope (§8–603.6). 

COMMENT:   These options may come in handy as we improve access between the play yard and the sanctuary.

3.  Entry

PARAPHRASE:   An accessible entrance should be provided at an entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet from the primary entrance. Alternatively, access can be provided at an entrance not used by the general public but open and unlocked with directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than 200 feet from, the primary entrance. The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem, remote monitoring may be used (§8–603.2).

COMMENT:   This requirement seems to pose a big challenge. We have been relying upon the Hampton Drive gate to serve as our accessible entrance. Yet it is located some 350 feet from the main sanctuary entrance, via the alley between Main Street and Hampton. This suggests that we ought to revisit what can be done to render the street-level doors on Main Street as an accessible entrance.