The ADA is a Civil Rights law that requires that barriers be removed from buildings in order for the disabled community to fully utilize it.  But what do we do when there are elements that are not compliant and to replace them would be too expensive?  Here are some suggestions. 

Along the accessible route there should not be any gaps along the path of travel for a wheelchair that are larger than 1/2" wide.  If there are then the wheelchair casters will get caught and it will be hard for the user to maneuver.  Grates are one barrier that exists if they are positioned so that the openings are placed in the same direction as the path of travel.
 

The video above shows how this could be a barriers.  If this occurs, one solution would be to either rotate the grates or add a corrugated metal on top of it which would still allow drainage but allow the wheels to roll over it without any maneuvering problems.

DOT Final Rule on Rail Station Platforms

On September 19, 2011, The US DOT published a final rule amending the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations governing the provision of facilities to achieve level boarding for mobility-impaired passengers on intercity, commuter and high-speed trains, as well as removing the operational use of the "common wheelchair" concept. The rule, effective as of October 19, 2011, applies to new and altered passenger platforms and establishes performance standards to ensure that passengers with disabilities can get on and off of any accessible car that is available. This final rule will apply to platforms constructed or altered after February 1, 2012. To read the final rule, click here: 

DOT Proposed Rule on Airline Websites and Kiosks

Also on September 19, 2011, the US DOT announced proposed regulations on airline websites and kiosks under the Air Carrier Access Act. These rules would require most foreign and domestic airlines to have accessible websites within two years of any final regulation. It would also require new kiosks purchased after enactment to meet accessibility standards. The DOT says this new proposal is part of an "ongoing effort to ensure equal access to air transportation for travelers with disabilities."  Comments must be filed by November 25, 2011.

For full text of the proposed regulations about airports click here and about kiosks click here:  

Remember that March 15, 2011 is when the new Standards became effective in the Federal level.  They will be mandatory on March 15, 2012. And each State will adopt it or not, at their discretion.

If you want to learn more about the new Standards, The ADA Companion Guide has the 2004 Guidelines with commentary and explanations throughout.