Collaboration Leads to New Ramp at Morristown Business

Just two weeks ago, those with a wheelchair or stroller couldn't easily access Dr. Thomas Puzio of EYE DRx on Lafayette Avenue. 

"We've been for years trying to get accessibility here for my wheelchair patients and I would go out and help them get into the office," said Puzio. Now those days are over with some collaboration between Puzio and one of his patients. 

"Finally one day one of our patients asked if there was anything he could do to help. He contacted the owner of the complex and I think the state. We were able to get the ball rolling to get the ramp in here.

"I use a wheelchair and was surprised to find my optometrist (located on the upper level of the stores under Staples on Lafayette Ave) was not accessible," said Cameron Wallace. "As soon as it was brought to (Morristown Construction Code Official) Fritz Reuss' attention, Fritz acted with dispatch to correct this—pushing plans through the maze of approval and inspection and coordinating with David Vought (Staples property manger). Here it is the first warm day of the season and David V. has the curb cut and it is built and the concrete is drying in the sun."

The ramp was put in about two weeks ago and just Thursday morning, the stripings were put down.

"The markings are in now and it's all done and we can get our patients in. THis was a combined effort between me and the patient to get it done," said Puzio.

"This new ramp will help so many people in the coming years," added Wallace. "These men deserve our collective thanks."