“The city is making accessible parks a priority, and a key feature is a barrier-free, accessible restroom facility designed for all community residents, not just people without disabilities,” Parks and Recreation Director Steve Clark said in the grant application.
The city is collaborating with Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services for project design of the restroom facility, as well as for design of ADA-accessible playground equipment.
The city has earmarked $225,000 of its total $1.5 million in allocated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for installation of the new playground structure in spring 2023.
“Accessible parks are more important than ever due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as people with disabilities need access to outdoor opportunities and spaces, as does the entire community,” Clark said.
Earlier this year, Vandalia entered into a $100,000 agreement with PROS Consulting to help lead the citywide parks master plan process and provide clear objectives to city officials and the parks advisory board.
Community surveying efforts show the majority of residents want to have restrooms in the city’s parks, Clark said.
The full parks master plan is set to be presented to council during a January work session.
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