A complaint to federal authorities has prompted a Seymour movie theater to make several modifications to its building so it will be more accessible to patrons with disabilities.
The U.S. Attorney’s office announced this week that it has reached a settlement agreement with 165 Main St., Inc., doing business as the Strand Theater, to resolve claims that the business fails to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A patron with disabilities had lodged a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s office alleging that the theater wasn’t fully accessible.
Under the terms of the agreement, the theater will ensure accessible wheelchair seating, acquire assistive listening devices, add signage, and remediate the designated accessible entrance and bathroom.
The business has already started making the required changes, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Private businesses considered to be places of “public accommodation,” such as movie theaters and hotels, must comply with the ADA.
The U.S. Department of Justice can investigate ADA complaints, do periodic reviews, and pursue civil litigation if needed.
U.S. Attorney John Durham noted the Strand Theater’s owners were fully cooperative with his office’s investigation and reached an agreement to make modifications without the need for any litigation.
In recent months, Durham’s office has resolved complaints involving area hotels, inns and movie theaters.
John Fanotto, building manager, said the theater primarily features classic movies and comedy shows, and uses money raised to benefit various charitable organizations and to help communities following disasters such as fires and hurricanes. The building is owned by the Knights of Columbus, he said.
“We aren’t a first run theater,” Fanotto said. “We have been ADA accessible before this, because we have a ramp and bathrooms, but this is mostly an upgrade to be in further compliance with newer regulations.”
While some upgrades will be done immediately, others will take up to a year to complete, according to Fanotto.
The theater is currently closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but Fanotto said he expects it to reopen sometime in August.
To file a complaint over accessibility issues, contact the U.S. Attorney’s office at 203-821-3700.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.
