Retail Interior Accessibility Program
The Retail Interior Accessibility Program (RIAP) helps property owners and business tenants improve the accessibility of the inside of their commercial building by paying for a portion of select construction or rehabilitation costs. RIAP funds are paid in the form of a reimbursement check, upon project completion. RIAP funds are a grant, not a loan, and are not considered taxable income.
Program Description
Approved projects are now eligible for 90% reimbursement, up to $25,000 in funds. Past awardees can reapply for grant funding three years after completing a previously awarded project.
Past RIAP funds have been reimbursed to projects built according to American with Disabilities Acts (ADA) and the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB) standards and regulations, such as:
- Accessible bathrooms
- Bar/Restaurant countertops built to accessible heights
- Checkout or sales register countertops built to accessible heights
- Shelving installed at accessible heights
- Tables, chairs, or other seating built to accessibility regulations
- Interior lifts
- Interior ramps and/or walkways
To qualify for reimbursement funds, interested property owners and business tenants must complete an RIAP application, provide quotes and designs from contractors/vendors, and be approved by the RIAP manager to enter into a contract with the City of Cambridge.
Improvements made prior to approval of a design and execution of a contract will not be funded. Large scale projects may require a licensed architect and contractor to refine a conceptual design and to implement the City-approved plans.
Application Form
To participate in the Retail Interior Accessibility Program submit a completed Retail Interior Accessibility Program application. Please review the Retail Interior Accessibility Program guidelines before applying.
Additional Resources
For More Information
If you wish to participate in the Retail Interior Accessibility Program, please contact Christina DiLisio at 617/349-4601 or via email at cdilsio@cambridgema.gov. The City of Cambridge will provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to persons with disabilities upon request.