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published Mar 2011

Basic Facts on Department of Justice Rule on Power-Driven Mobility Devices for Accessibility

by Stuart Macdonald

On March 15, 2011, new Department of Justice rules took effect, specifying the “other power-driven mobility devices” (OPDMD) that could be used on trails by “individuals with mobility disabilities.” If you manage a trail that is open to the public this rule applies to your facility.


published Jan 2011

Universal Accessibility of "Accessible" Fitness and Recreational Facilities for Persons With Mobility Disabilities

by Kelly P. Arbour-Nicitopoulos with McMaster University, Kathleen A. Martin Ginis with McMaster University

This study descriptively measured the universal accessibility of “accessible” fitness and recreational facilities for Ontarians living with mobility disabilities.


published Dec 2010

Analysis of Policies Addressing Trail Accessibility Rule on Power-Driven Mobility Devices

by Stuart Macdonald

Issues addressed by local and state governments on the DOJ rule for use of "Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices" on trails, bike paths, greenways, and pedestrian facilities.


published Sep 2010

Q&A on Wheelchairs and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices Ruling

by Stuart Macdonald

Questions and Answers to help trail managers respond to recent Department of Justice rule on Wheelchairs and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (updated February 19, 2011)


published Jan 2010

Smithsonian Guidelines for Accessible Exhibition Design

Exhibitions are complex presentations that convey concepts, showcase objects, and excite the senses. However, as museums recognize the diversity within their audiences, they realize that exhibitions must do more: exhibitions must teach to different learning styles, respond to issues of cultural and gender equity, and offer multiple levels of information. The resulting changes in exhibitions have made these presentations more understandable, enjoyable, and connected to visitors’ lives.


published Mar 2009

Braille trail building and renovation

by American Trails Staff

Braille trails and sensory gardens offer sustainable and accessible ways to safely experience the outdoors and provide opportunities to interact with nature.


published Jan 2009

California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines

by California State Parks, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division

The guidelines are, in essence, a summary of the Federal and State accessibility regulations set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act and California’s Title 24 building codes.


published May 2008

Best Practices of Accessibility in Parks and Recreation: A Delphi Survey of National Experts in Accessibility

by Alison Voight, Gary Robb, Jennifer Skulski, Deborah Getz, Debbie Scharven

As a result of frequent inquiries regarding best practices from practitioners, NCA initiated this research study in order to ascertain which practices in the field of parks and recreation accessibility management exceed the minimum standards set forth by the ADA and other disability-related legislation.


published Nov 2004

Stabilized Engineered Wood Fiber for Accessible Trails

by USDA Forest Service

Trails made with wood chips are difficult for those who use mobility aids because the surface is soft, uneven, and shifting.


published Nov 2001

Visitor Expectations and Perceptions of Program and Physical Accessibility in the National Park Service

by Rachel J. C. Chen, PhD

The purpose of the study was to identify the perceptions of people with disabilities relative to program and physical accessibility in the National Park Service.


published Sep 2000

Soil Stabilizers On Universally Accessible Trails

For the past several years, national forests around the country have been looking for ways to make areas more universally accessible, while maintaining a natural appearance that is not as distracting as concrete, asphalt, boardwalks, and other obviously manmade pathways.


published Dec 1999

Tennessee Greenways and Trails Program Accessibility Guidelines

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation guidelines on accessible trails