Interview Insights.
The man we interviewed uses a power wheelchair, as he is quadriplegic. He explained that he visits outdoor spaces about twice a month, but would like to visit more frequently. We talked about information he likes to know beforehand, barriers he faces, and tools that he uses. With the insights he provided, we were better able to evaluate Berwyn Heights Park. His perspective also helped us understand the diversity of needs, as he gave responses that were different from much of our online research. Below is a summary of his responses. If you would like to hear more, contact us through our Instagram.
Summary of Responses
What type of information do you need and/or want to know about a space before you visit?
It depends on the type of area. If it was just a park, I want to know all the accessible features, including; accessible parking, accessible entrance, and any accommodations to decide what activities are available. Hiking and other parks should provide trail width, accessibility for “OPDMD” other powered driven mobility devices. If a trail or park is not currently compliant, there should be a posting alerting, the public that the public space is not compliant, and there should be a date of when it will become compliant.
What difficulties or barriers do you experience when visiting outdoor spaces?
There are endless barriers. It’s super annoying considering the ADA was passed more than 30 years ago. Most of the barriers have to do with accessibility. I have my four-wheel-drive wheelchair but many of the trails have not been outfitted For ADA regulations. I tried to fight with the state ADA coordinator with the department of natural land and resources, but have not had much success. Their plan is to slowly adapt the area as they make changes. However, they don’t really have a budget to improve the trails. The major, most popular, and most tourist driven parks, usually have pretty good accessibility.
What characteristics would you use to describe an accessible outdoor space?
An accessible outdoor space should be accommodative to all people of all abilities. There should be accommodations for the mobility impaired, sight impaired, hearing impaired, as well as nurturing activities for people of all cognitive abilities. To me, if it is a publicly funded, public space, then it needs to be inclusive for the entire public.