We continue celebrating the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with a look at how the ADA and related laws and policies have opened more opportunities to summer recreation. Parks, beaches, pools, campgrounds, and other summer recreation spots may be managed by state or local agencies, or under private ownership, but all have responsibilities under the ADA to ensure that those facilities are accessible to people with disabilities.
The NIDILRR-funded ADA National Network has resources that can help facility owners and managers understand and fulfill their responsibilities under the ADA. Here are just a few examples:
- Accessibility of Pool Lifts and Service Dogs at the Beach are two Ask About the ADA Podcast episodes from the Northeast ADA Regional Center that tackle recreation issues.
- Accessibility of Sidewalk Dining, Retail, and Community Spaces from the Pacific ADA Regional Center can help businesses and organization take their activity outdoors so everyone can enjoy dining, shopping, and connecting al fresco.
- ADA Checklists for Existing Recreational Facilities from the New England ADA Regional Center can help older facilities conduct physical surveys, identify barriers, and develop a plan to ensure everyone in the community can access their buildings, services, and events.
- Success Stories from the ADA National Network spotlight several examples of how the Regional Centers helped their communities open more opportunities for recreation:
If your community has questions about the ADA and access to recreation facilities and activities, contact the ADA National Network Center serving your area at 800/949-4ADA (4232).