02/15-18/2022 – Texas Recreation & Park Society Institute & Expo @ Texas A & M University

Kristi Avalos will be speaking in person at the TRAPS Institute & Expo from 12:30 to 4:30 pm CST on February 15, 2022.

Topic:  Making Parks and Recreation Enjoyable and Accessible for All  

A park can be almost anything. It can be as small as a green space or as large as a theme park. Regardless of its size, it is required by law to be accessible – and accessibility can be challenging. Whether the park has water features, sporting options, hike/bike trails or amusement rides, accessibility is needed to offer recreational opportunities for individuals with and without disabilities. This class is designed to assist participants in understanding how to make the many varieties of parks compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

During this 4-hour session, the focus will be on accessibility in these Parks and Recreation amenities:

• Sports venues

• Parks

• Playgrounds

• Hike and bike trails

• Water features such as pools/spas/splash pads

• Beaches

• Marinas, boating Facilities and fishing docks

• Camping and RV parks

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will learn about laws that apply to specific park elements.

2. Participants will learn how to incorporate all of the senses into outdoor experiences making them accessible and enjoyable for individuals with different types of disabilities.

3. Participants will learn how to make compliant trails on various topography.

4. Participants will learn how to make playgrounds accessible.

5. Participants will learn the exceptions to full access requirements.

Click here for more conference information.