Disabled man sues over Faneuil Hall access

July 11--A Bay State man is suing the owners of Faneuil Hall Marketplace and the city of Boston, claiming the historic tourist destination violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"The goal is equal access for disabled persons at Faneuil Hall," said Edward Garno, the attorney who filed the suit. "There's many areas that disabled patrons can't access like everybody else can."

The suit, filed in Massachusetts District Court earlier this week on behalf of Raoul Marradi, claims dining areas, some stores and routes are inaccessible, and there is a lack of handicap accessible ramps -- including some that are too steep or don't have necessary railings.

"Defendant has violated the ADA and has discriminated against Plaintiff by excluding him from participation in and denying them the benefits of Defendant's public services, programs, facilities, activities, buildings, spaces, premises and accommodations solely by reason of his disability," the lawsuit says.

Both the city and Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. -- the operators of Faneuil Hall Marketplace -- declined to comment, saying they have not yet seen the complaint.

Marradi is seeking an order that would compel both parties to make changes that would improve accessibility.

Ashkenazy has proposed an overhaul of the three buildings behind Faneuil Hall, hoping to revitalize the area.

Those plans have faced stiff opposition and pushback from the site's current vendors, who fear the changes could transform the historic marketplace into a luxury shopping strip.

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