Village officials, educators, tourism leaders and disability advocates are working together on a new initiative designed to make Newark more accessible and welcoming for residents and visitors of all abilities.
The Village of Newark announced it is participating in an Accessibility Education Program led by Rochester Accessible Adventures and sponsored by the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation. The effort focuses on identifying and removing barriers that limit participation for people with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities, as well as those with medical conditions.
A local core team has been assembled to guide the initiative, including Mayor Jonathan Taylor, representatives from The Arc Wayne Foundation, Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES, Newark Central School District, Wayne County Tourism, the Alex Eligh Community Center and village economic development officials.
According to the village, team members have already completed more than 105 hours of training and begun evaluating municipal operations, programs and services. The group has also developed a Strategic Inclusion Action Plan that will help shape future accessibility improvements throughout the community.
Planned efforts include reviewing community events and recreation sites, improving accessibility information available on the village website and establishing a designated point of contact for residents and visitors with accessibility-related questions. Officials said the training and planning process will also help inform major projects, including the proposed Health and Wellness Center and continued development efforts at the Port of Newark.
Wayne County Tourism Director Christine Worth said inclusive communities benefit both residents and visitors by creating opportunities for everyone to participate in local activities, businesses and events. Program organizers say the initiative is part of a broader effort to expand inclusive recreation and tourism opportunities along the Erie Canal corridor.
Village officials are encouraging community members to participate in the process by providing feedback, supporting accessibility efforts and taking part in inclusion education opportunities as they become available.
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