When traveling, it’s always nice to see the different accommodations cities offer people with disabilities. Some cities offer basic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations, while others go above and beyond to make sure including everyone is part of their mission.
I’m happy to be from Dayton, because my city is knocking it out of the park when it comes to accessibility and accommodation.
Have you been to the Dayton Art Institute (DAI) lately? If not, I suggest you go. DAI has really been putting in the work to make sure the beautiful public establishment is accessible. There are two new accessibility features I’m ecstatic about.
First, DAI installed a universal changing table. No longer will a person with a disability be uncomfortable or need to leave the facility because of the need for a changing table in the restroom. Learn more about this here: Dayton Art Institute unveils universal changing table
Second, visitors of DAI can now utilize the Bloomberg Connect app, which uses scannable codes to relay detailed information about a piece of art. This universal app makes it easier for anyone to explore the arts but it is designed to support individuals with a wide range of assistance needs, including visual impairment, developmental disabilities, and more. Check out the app here: Bloomberg Connects
DAI has many exciting events and exhibits. The changing table and Bloomberg Connect app will allow many more people to enjoy this fun staple in the community.
In addition to the art institute, Dayton is known for being the birthplace of aviation. Many come near and far to visit the Air Force Museum. The museum offers a wide range of exhibits from war artifacts displays to refurbished bomber planes you can sit inside and explore. To ensure people who are blind can enjoy the exhibits, the museum now offers braille descriptions on displays. The Air Force Museum also offers sign language interpreters for people who are deaf or have hearing impairment.
Both accessibility features will improve the experience of all visitors who appreciate the history of aviation and enjoy our esteemed museum.
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force offers Braille exhibits and sign language interpreters
Dayton, or “The DYT” as I call it, is where I was born and raised. I’m always happy to brag about my city. Especially when things are being done to make places more accessible for the disability community. On that note, well done DAI and Air Force Museum, well done!
We love to see this happening in the Dayton area. I urge folks to check out the Boonshoft Museum as well. They just installed a universal changing table, Hoyer track lift system, and sensory space to accommodate those who need the restroom facilities as well as an area to decompress if needed. These are the newest changes among other accessibility features. . https://boonshoft.org/about-us/accessibility/
Jennifer,
What great news! Thanks for letting the Make Things Happen blog nation know!
Shari, I want to note that the Museum of the United States Air Force will be doing some remodeling later this year to make two public restrooms fully accessible with universal changing tables and one will also have a lift installed. This will be a joint project of Changing Spaces, Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disability Services, the Gorman, Hewitt Ayares Fund at URS and all remodeling costs borne by the Museum of the US Air Force staff!
Dennis,
How cool! Thanks for letting the Make Things Happen blog nation know.