Published August 27, 2024
Carriage Hill MetroPark, 2nd Street Market add universal, height-adjustable changing tables
Five Rivers MetroParks’ Carriage Hill MetroPark and the 2nd Street Market have both been outfitted with universal, height-adjustable changing tables, making these facilities accessible to people with mobility challenges. The tables are located inside both restrooms by the Historic Daniel Arnold Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark and inside the family restroom at the 2nd Street Market.
“These tables make it easier for people who need assistance with personal care needs, along with their families and caregivers, to enjoy their MetroParks,” said Karen Hesser, CEO of Five Rivers MetroParks. “Families with young children can use the changing tables, too.”
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4% of people in Ohio need assistance with self-care, yet public restrooms are not built to accommodate their needs. For instance, stalls designated as handicap accessible do not provide a safe or sanitary surface for changing children and adults. Moreover, baby changing tables often have a fixed height and weight limit that does not support more than 30 pounds.
The changing tables at Carriage Hill MetroPark were made possible in part by a grant from the Charles D. Berry Foundation. The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities provided funds from the Montgomery County American Rescue Plan Act to MetroParks for the purchase and installation of the table at the Market, and consultation expertise for the installation at Carriage Hill MetroPark.
“Universal, height-adjustable changing tables provide a hygienic and dignified space for people with disabilities to address their restroom needs,” said Dr. Pamela Combs, chief executive officer of the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services. “Changing tables like the ones at Carriage Hill MetroPark and the 2nd Street Market can hold up to 400 pounds and be raised or lowered electronically, making it easier for the caregiver to get the individual into a safe position.”
Adding the changing tables to Carriage Hill MetroPark and the Market allows more members of the community to enjoy those destinations and attend programs and events, such as the upcoming holiday programs at both locations.
The Historic Daniel Arnold Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark includes paved paths adjacent to the farm from which visitors can view the house, barn, and many of the resident heritage-breed farm animals. Visitors can also utilize the ADA-accessible boardwalk and fishing pier at Cedar Lake. At the Carriage Hill Riding Center, reasonable accommodations can be requested so all visitors can get up close to the horses.
More information about accessible features and amenities at various Five Rivers MetroParks locations can be found at metroparks.org/accessible.
