DAYTON, Ohio (WKEF) -- Visitors to Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park now have access to a universal changing table designed to serve people with disabilities and others who require adult-sized restroom accommodations.
The height-adjustable table was recently installed inside the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center and was officially unveiled on Thursday morning.
The project was made possible through a partnership involving the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services, Changing Spaces Ohio, and the National Park Service. Funding for the installation came through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars.
Unlike standard infant changing stations, universal changing tables are designed to support older children and adults who need assistance with personal care.
Officials say people with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs, often need a private, accessible space to address their restroom needs.
Advocates say the lack of such facilities in public spaces often limits where individuals with disabilities can travel and participate in community activities.
The new table is located on the second floor of the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center near the elevators and can accommodate users weighing up to 440 pounds.
Officials say the addition is intended to make one of Dayton's most visited historic attractions more accessible to families, caregivers, and visitors with disabilities.
Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Superintendent Kamarr Gage said, “The installation of this table will provide people with disabilities a safe, hygienic, and dignified space to address their restroom needs and allow them to enjoy historic stories in authentic places without having to worry about their personal care.”
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park preserves the legacy of aviation pioneers Wilbur and Orville Wright as well as renowned Dayton poet Paul Laurence Dunbar through a collection of sites across the Miami Valley.
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Superintendent Kendell Thompson, says, "This was a really important day for us. Not only is Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Dayton's national park, it's all of our park. But until today, with the help of the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities, who funded this project, until today, we were not able to fully welcome everyone to our national park. It's really important, it's a site of inspiration, and a site of doing impossible things. So with the help of our partners, everyone can visit."
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