Universal Design For Byways: Preparing For Our Future (Accessibility)
Is your byway prepared for visitors of all ages and abilities?
In response to a need raised at the 2009 National Scenic Byways Conference open space forum, America’s Byways Resource Center has recognized the importance of universal design for byways. Further, the Resource Center has determined that a key element of sustainable byways is their ability to plan for and provide accessible experiences for people of all abilities. To support this need, the Resource Center hired DSL Design Consulting to develop a universal design curriculum for the byway community. Byways specialists can help you assess your needs and provide you with materials, exercises and presentations, or facilitate workshops regarding accessibility and universal design.
Are our byways ready for the growing aging and disability market? Are there improvements that can be made along our byways to make the visitor experience better for everyone? We know that there is still work to be done on all byways in the following areas:
- Buildings
- Spaces
- Outdoor recreation
- Programs
- Marketing materials
- Visitor etiquette
- Strategic planning
What Is The Difference Between “Universal Design” And “Accessibility”?
- Universal design is the design of environments, products, information and services so that they are usable by all people regardless of age, size or ability.
- Accessibility generally refers to designing for the needs of persons with disabilities.
- We have found that by designing for people with disabilities and older adults in mind creates a better design for anyone.
- Spaces that are universally designed are also accessible; however, they don’t look like they were made only for people with disabilities.
- Some good examples are power sliding doors, curb cuts, and captioning on television. All of these features were originally developed for people with disabilities; however, now everyone uses them. They are more universal.
- Accessibility is often tied to codes and standards. We can do better than what is in the codes/standards and provide a more universal byway visitor experience for all travelers. For instance, the code tells us about the minimum slope for a ramp, but if we have enough room, we don’t even need a ramp: we can just make gentle slope and a no-step entrance into the building. This is a more universal design approach.
Why Should I Get On Board?
- The growing number of travelers with disabilities and older adults is huge! They also have considerable dollars to spend on travel.
- If your byway is not accessible to all travelers, you will be missing out on a huge part of the travel market.
- We know that byways that are universally designed are also safer.
- Universally designed spaces are more attractive and welcoming to visitors.
What Should I Do Next?
- Talk to your Byways Specialist at America’s Byways Resource Center to discuss your needs regarding universal design.
- Check out our resources on our website.
Purpose and Objectives (html)
1-Hour Overview
- Part 1 (PDF, .txt)
- Part 2 (PDF, .txt)
Module #6 - Evaluating Your Byway
- Part 1 (PDF, .txt)
- Part 2 (PDF, .txt)
- Part 3 (PDF, .txt)
- Part 4 (PDF, .txt)
Sample Activity: Byways Report Card (PDF, .txt)
Case Studies
- Part 1 (PDF, .txt)
- Part 2 (PDF, .txt)
Universal Design for Byways (Webcast)
