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In the United States, approximately 18.6 million people, or about 6.1% of the population age 5 and older, report having a disability that limits their mobility. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that approximately 16% of the population lives with a severe disability.
These people rely on accessible transportation, infrastructure and other amenities to travel, so sharing Oregon’s commitment to accessibility is essential to ensuring everyone can experience our state’s diverse landscapes and activities.
Check out accessible options around Oregon below.
Portland:
Hoyt Arboretum Friends received a $100,000 grant from Oregon’s tourism organization, Travel Oregon, to improve accessibility within the park. Improvements include installing new access points at trailheads to support recreational activities for visitors of all abilities. Similarly, the Columbia County Port received a $100,000 grant from Travel Oregon to install an ADA-compliant paddle craft launch platform. The platform features a transfer bench, non-slip deck and grip bars, greatly improving accessibility and equity for all users.
Willamette Valley:
In June, UNPavement and C2 Recreation, with funding from the Willamette Valley Tourism Association, Corvallis Tourism and Lane County Tourism, conducted rider accommodation assessments at six mountain bike trail destinations, including Silver Falls State Park and the McKenzie River Trail. These assessments will provide riders with detailed accommodation information to improve the accessibility of these popular trails.
Oregon Coast:
With the support of a grant from Travel Oregon, Explore Lincoln City has partnered with Wheel the World to provide visitors with detailed information about accessible places and activities along the Oregon coast. In addition to free beach wheelchair rentals, four access points are available for Mobi-Mats, temporary walkways that are ADA compliant, allowing people with mobility challenges to easily navigate the sand. For people with color blindness, Lincoln City offers EnChroma glasses, allowing you to experience the vibrant coastal views in full color. Several local parks and recreation areas have also been upgraded with accessible trails, picnic areas and restrooms, making Lincoln City a welcoming destination for all visitors.
Central Oregon:
Wanderlust Tours received a grant from Visit Central Oregon to provide custom adventure tours designed to be accessible to everyone, and Oregon Adaptive Sports received a grant from Travel Oregon to promote inclusive adventure tours and expand opportunities for people with disabilities to explore the region.
Eastern Oregon:
The Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce is working to ensure the inclusivity of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: With a $43,200 grant from Travel Oregon, the organization is hosting accessibility trainings and auditing visitor-facing businesses to ensure they are welcoming to customers with disabilities.
Southern Oregon:
The Mount Ashland Association will receive $50,000 from Travel Oregon to purchase a new ADA-compliant shuttle to provide reliable transportation for people with disabilities attending Mount Ashland events through the Adaptive Sports Association.
This Community Update has been shared courtesy of the Here is Oregon Community Connections team, who collaborate with community partners and supporters through events and key initiatives across the state to amplify and share good news that aligns with our mission. View our submission guidelines to learn more today.