Built Environment
Accessibility in municipal buildings and outdoor recreation spaces means designing them so that everyone can use them comfortably, no matter what kind of disability they might have. This includes thinking about people with physical (e.g., cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, diabetes), sensory (e.g., low vision, hearing loss ), or neurodiverse (e.g., attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia) needs.
Making public spaces accessible can be a challenge. It often involves working with other departments and doing things like accessibility audits or joining advisory committees. However, the recreation department plays a key role in engaging with the community and delivering programs. This means your input is crucial in creating spaces that are not just accessible but also welcoming to everyone. By getting involved and taking initiative, you help ensure that your community’s recreational spaces show a strong commitment to including people of all abilities.
The strategies below are meant to help you get started on your project. You’ll need to adjust them to fit your local community’s needs. What’s most important is that, as part of your municipality’s recreation department, your efforts play a big role in creating a community that welcomes and supports persons with disabilities.
Executive Summary
There are many evidence-based practices to bring accessibility in the recreational built environment. The practices outlined below will help you have the mindset required to complete your goals.
Creating momentum
Here, you will learn tips to help you engage with community members and to secure support from leadership in government.
Assess current conditions
This section includes strategies such as using accessibility audits and writing up a report or plan.
Implement audit recommendations
Here, you will learn a few practices to help you communicate your results and track your progress.
