For Friends of Stewart Park, inclusion and accessibility are a priority in every revitalization project it undertakes. We are proud to announce that FSP has been awarded this year's Community Partner Award from Racker, in recognition of the work regarding inclusivity FSP has done and continues to do in Stewart Park. Racker has provided support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and their families in our area for over 70 years, and we are honored to receive this award from them.
This e-news is a bit different than usual. Today, we invite you to take a look at all the ways FSP works with the City of Ithaca and its generous community to help ensure Stewart Park is welcoming and accessible to all. With your help, we're making Stewart Park one of the area's top inclusive recreation destinations! Please show your support for accessibility in Stewart Park and make a gift today.
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FSP cut the ribbon to open the new inclusive playground in August 2020, ensuring Ithaca has a place where all children and their caregivers can play side by side.
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"Having an inclusive playground is so important for families in our community, not only do we want our daughter to play and learn alongside other children and families of all abilities, but it is also critical that Patrick be able to be an active participate with his children instead of watching from afar. This playground means Patrick is able be an independent father; he can play with his children and socialize with other community members on his own, just like any other parent."
- Ashley Bohn
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With the help of Play By Design and volunteers, FSP adapted the carousel for users with mobility aids by adding a ramp and adaptive chariot where a wheelchair can be secured next to a seated caregiver.
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"We love Stewart Park now more than ever, now that it is more accessible. We love that my son can now ride the carousel in his wheelchair, and that there are things he can do on the play structure. My family is looking forward to the accessible splash pad and bathrooms. Never underestimate how important accessible bathrooms are for people with disabilities!"
- Meghan Kennedy
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All-season accessible bathrooms like the ones FSP and Wharton Studio Museum opened July 2021 mean Stewart Park can be enjoyed by everyone year-round, even if nature calls. FSP plans to build an accessible seasonal bathroom building near the playground in 2022.
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Thanks to your generous gifts, this summer three accessible picnic tables were added by the playground.
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The ADA compliant multi-use Cayuga Waterfront Trail safely and comfortably connects Stewart Park to so many wonderful waterfront destinations: Cayuga Lake and the Inlet, Ithaca Farmers Market, Ithaca Children's Garden, Cass Park, the Allan Treman and Black Diamond Trails.
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Wide flat paths and walkways, as well as ramps and curb cuts, make the park more accessible for people who use wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers and strollers.
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Ongoing maintenance is an essential for keeping paths and walkways accessible. FSP coordinates volunteers to rake, clean debris, pick up litter and more to keep our park paths clear.
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EQUAL ACCESS FOR ALL
Inclusion means more that ADA compliance. Stewart Park is FREE, open from dawn to dusk, easy to get to by car, foot, bike or public transportation, and welcoming to ALL.
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"When I'm here in Stewart Park, I always notice that people of all ages and all walks of life use this park on a regular basis, and that's a beautiful thing."
- Dan Segal
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