Freedom Resource Center has announced its Accessibility Award was presented to the Sensory Garden located in Solien Denault Park, Jamestown. The Accessibility Award recognizes people and organizations that have made significant contributions to accessibility by constructing barrier-free environments and/or removing physical barriers.
This award recognizes the collaborative effort between the Jamestown Park and Recreation Department, Jamestown Area Chamber Beautification Committee, Anne Carlsen Center, Freedom Resource Center, Master Gardeners and City of Jamestown Forestry Department.
The Sensory Garden is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs, walkers and the visually impaired. The walking area meets Americans With Disabilities Act width requirements to accommodate wheelchairs traveling in both directions. The two bridges have lower plate guards to help guide those who are visually impaired and to prevent the wheels from adaptive equipment from slipping off the edge. The planters are at varying heights, picnic tables are accessible, and benches are placed to accommodate wheelchair parking. To enjoy the water, a walkway to the deck is accessible. Planters have readers for people who have visual impairments to place their phone up to a reader card and learn about the various plants through their phones. The park has been listed on a national visually impaired registry. The goal is to ensure people with all disabilities are be able to enjoy the peace and serenity of the park. Sensory Gardens will be featured on Freedom’s Facebook page during the month of November.
Freedom Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc. is a non-profit disability rights organization that has been serving people with disabilities for over 30 years.
