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Digital Accessibility Project

The City of Madison values inclusion and equal access for all. The Digital Accessibility Project is our roadmap for making digital content and services that can be accessed and used by everyone. This includes people on different devices, in different environments, and with different abilities. 

We recognize that access for all requires a thoughtful, scalable, and city-wide approach. This work is part of our broader ADA Transition Plan and aligns with Federal ADA guidelines(external). We're actively working to address remaining gaps as part of our ongoing commitment to access and inclusion.

Announcements 

  • Reporting a Digital Accessibility Need

    If a member of the public can't access digital information or services, or has any questions or concerns about the accessibility of the City's digital content, they can notify us by:

    Once their request is processed, we will work to update the issue as soon as possible. 

  • Web Accessibility Deadline Extended

    On April 20, 2026, the DOJ announced a one-year extension for web accessibility compliance. The new compliance deadline is April 26, 2027. While our commitment to digital accessibility remains the same, this gives us some breathing room to continue working towards our goals. We're moving forward with the scaled, intentional project approach we've implemented. Staff worked very hard to get us where we are today — thank you for your ongoing commitment to digital access for all. Updated April 20, 2026. 

  • Maps, Data, & Complex Images

    PDF maps and visualizations will be remediated like other PDFs. Please follow the guidance in Accessible Complex Images and Visualizations for document-based content. 

    We requested third-party vendors for our interactive maps and visualizations submit plans to make their software fully accessible. We've also followed up about training opportunities for accessibility in these products. More coming soon.   updated April 2026

  • Audio and Video updates

    Media Team is making updates to APM 4-4 and implementing captioning software. All unarchived audio-visual media they produce will incorporate accessibility standards. Any archived content will be made accessible to members of the public on request.   updated March 2026

  • Legistar Documents

    Documents created or updated by City staff goes through our general process for accessibility updates. IT is currently partnering with the BCC Admin Group on standards and policies around this. Our long-term goal is also ensuring our third-party contributors follow accessibility standards when submitting content to the City. More information throughout 2026. updated February 2026

ADA Updates

The federal government released a rule that sets new standards for digital accessibility. This rule says that the City's publicly available digital content and services should be accessible. All departments will have a role in updating their digital content. Making some minor changes to the way we author and save content goes a long way in making it more accessible. Staff who create digital content (including digital documents, maps, data visualizations, and more) must ensure it is accessible moving forward.

As part of the broader ADA Transition Plan, our goal is also to make sure our internal (staff-only) digital content is accessible by 2031. When we create accessible digital content, it can adapt to the needs of our users. Designing for diverse needs is good design for everyone.

Project Plan

A woman sitting at her desk, looking at multiple computer screens with maps and data.

We recognize that access for all requires a thoughtful, scalable, and city-wide approach. This work is part of our broader ADA Transition Plan and aligns with Federal ADA guidelines(external). We're actively working to address remaining gaps as part of our ongoing commitment to access and inclusion.
 

This work includes:

  • Webpages

    • Conducting website audits with a third-party vendor.
    • Continuing to review and update webpages for accessibility standards.

  • PDF Documents

    • Updating unarchived and new PDF documents for accessibility.
    • Prioritizing vital documents and public requests. 
    • Updating policies/procedures around Legistar document accessibility.

  • Maps and Data

    • Reviewing and updating maps and data visualizations for accessibility.
    • Working with vendors to implement accessibility changes in the software used to create visual communications. 

  • Social Media

    • Training for and creation of accessible social media posts and public communications.

  • Audiovisual Media

    • Archiving old audio and videos and making them accessible upon request. 
    • Adding captions, transcripts and audio descriptions for newer media.

  • Third-Party/Vendor Hosted Content

    • Ensuring partner vendors who host City content and provide access to City information and services comply with ADA standards.
    • Updating contract language to include these requirements.

When we create accessible digital content, it can adapt to the needs of our users. Designing for diverse needs is good design for everyone. We'll update staff-only digital content will follow the same process, with an extended timeline of June 2026 to December 2031.

Staff Training & Support 

We currently offer many training resources for staff. Check out the entire Digital Accessibility IT Knowledge Base category for self-help articles and step-by-step guidance. 

Documents

Communication & Plain Language

Other

Website

For web content editors. Please contact the Web Team if you'd like to attend or refresh yourself on any of these trainings and presentations.

 

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