JIM RAMSTAD THIRD DISTRICT. MINNESOTA JUDICIARY COMMITTEE SMALL BUSINESS COMMITTEE JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE		WASHINGTON OFFICE 322 CANNON HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON. DC 2O515-2303 (202) 225-2871 DISTRICT OFFICE 3120 PENN AVE SOUTH #152 BLOOMINGTON MN 55431 (612) 881-4600
	Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515-2303

John D. Walsh
Executive Director
Metropolitan Center For Independent Living
1600 University Avenue West
Suite 16
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104-3825

Dear John:

As a person who has long been involved with issues of importance to persons with disabilities, I know very well the physical and financial barriers people face every day. The ramp design presented in this manual is an effective, low-cost solution to meet the access needs of persons with disabilities.

This unique and creative approach builds on the strengths of the community. It involves volunteers, ensures quality and safety, and can be adapted to an individual's situation. One of the most notable characteristics of the design is the modular system which allows the ramp to be reused time and again.

That same design also allows families to construct ramps at a much faster pace, when time is of the essence to get loved ones back together again.

I applaud the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living for their innovative approach to increased independence and access for people with disabilities.

Sincerely

JIM RAMSTAD
Member of Congress

JR:lo