City of Racine
City Website PDFs More Accessible with Launch of DocAccess
The City of Racine has taken a significant step toward improving digital accessibility with the launch of DocAccess, a new tool that makes most PDF documents on the City’s website more accessible to people with disabilities.
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice updated regulationsA rule or directive made and maintained by an authority. under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), establishing requirementsA thing that is needed or wanted. for digital accessibility across state and local governments. These rules apply to web content, including documents like PDFs, which must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
PDFs have historically been one of the most common barriers for people using screen readers and other assistive technologies. Improving access to these documents is a key part of making public information easier to use and understand.
What’s New
Through DocAccess, hundreds of City documents are now available in formats designed to be easier to read, search, and navigate.
When a user opens a supported PDF on the City’s website, it is automatically presented in a version that is:
- Compatible with screen readers and assistive technology
- Searchable, including the ability to find answers in plain language
- Translatable into more than 250 languages
- Optimized for mobile devices and easier viewing
- Usable even for older or scanned documents
No additional software or downloads are required.
What This Means for Residents
Most PDF documents published directly on the City of Racine’s website are now significantly more accessible.
Some documents hosted through external systems – such as meeting agendas, minutes, and other materials within the City’s legislative platform – are not currently supported by DocAccess. The City continues to evaluate options to improve accessibility across all systems.
Looking Ahead
The launch of DocAccess is an important step toward meeting updated federal accessibility standards and expanding access to public information.
It also gives the City new insight into how residents use online documents, helping inform future improvements and make information more responsive to community needs.
Accessibility is an ongoing effort, and the City will continue working to improve access across all platforms.
