A park can be as small as a green space or as large as a theme park and accommodate a broad range of recreational and sports options. Regardless of its size or intended use, the park is required by law to be accessible to offer recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This class is designed to assist participants in understanding how to make the many varieties of parks and trails compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Attendees will be provided many unique and little-known ways to make parks a delight for people with all types of disabilities. Case studies will be highlighted from communities that have successfully updated their parks and trails to be ADA-compliant. Information will be shared regarding ADA-approved construction designs and whether these projects were initiated due to a complaint, being proactive, or as part of a renovation project. The unique challenges for each study will be presented, as well as what was tried, what ultimately worked, and whether the project was handled in-house, outsourced, or both. Of course, park and trail renovations launch another set of challenges since many of these projects lead to new ADA considerations that can cause budgetary alarms to go off. This makes it difficult to prioritize the order of tackling projects when all seem the most important. This session will help you identify the low-hanging fruit when it comes to choosing where to begin and how to proceed with ADA compliance.
After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Name specific ways to incorporate all of the senses into outdoor experiences, making them accessible and enjoyable for individuals with different disabilities.
• Identify characteristics of ADA-compliant trails on varying types of topography.
• Describe modification options for playgrounds to make them accessible.
Contributor/Source
Kristi Avalos-President/CEO
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Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
Public Works Radio Podcast
Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Virtual Program
Virtual programs are live, interactive educational programs led by top experts in the field who provide timely information or address trending topics within an area. Programs often conclude with an open forum for Q&A.