The Office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut reached a settlement agreement with Lake Shore Lounge Inc., doing business as Down the Hatch restaurant in Brookfield, to resolve allegations that the restaurant was not operating in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).
The settlement agreement resolved an ADA complaint filed by an individual with disabilities who claimed the restaurant demanded the removal of a service animal from the premises. An additional complaint alleged that the restrooms and parking spaces were inaccessible to individuals with physical disabilities.
As part of the settlement agreement, the restaurant is now posting signage indicating “Service Animals Welcome” and is updating its policies to welcome customers with service animals. The restaurant agreed to upgrade accessibility to its restrooms and parking spaces. The complainant received compensation from the restaurant, although the sum was not disclosed.
“We appreciate Down the Hatch”™s commitment to increasing access to its restaurant for individuals with disabilities who require service animal assistance and those with mobility challenges,” said Vanessa Roberts Avery, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, who added the settlement agreement was achieved without the need for litigation.
