Ensuring inclusion, regardless of age or ability, to independently participate in a wide range of recreation facilities is the goal of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Adopted by the Department of Justice (DOJ) the standards establish minimum accessibility requirements for all new construction or alterations of existing recreational facilities after March 15, 2012. The standards apply to state and local government facilities covered by Title II and places of public accommodation covered by Title III. This session will help you design parks beyond the minimum requirements of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design for recreation facilities, including considerations for surfacing, site amenities, site arrival points, outdoor inclusive fitness equipment, play areas, and much more. Attendees will develop a better understanding of the features that make a park or play area inclusive for everyone. The session will provide tools and resources to help evaluate the level of compliance of existing recreation facilities.
Learning Outcomes:
Outline at least two minimum standards for accessible play areas required under the 2010 ADA Standards.
List at least three key considerations to create accessible routes to and within play and recreation destinations.
Evaluate a variety of park amenities and identify barriers that may restrict people with disabilities from being able to fully participate in the provided recreational opportunities.
Identify two helpful resources to obtain additional information or to utilize when evaluating new and existing play and recreation environments.
