Our Commitment to accessibility
Parks & Trails New York believes that public lands are for all. As such, we are committed to ensuring that the joy and awe of experiences in nature are available to everyone, regardless of ability, race, class, creed, or gender and sexuality. We work to remove physical, social, and systemic barriers to participation in outdoor activities, creating a better experience for all New Yorkers. We are actively cultivating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels respected, heard, and valued.
To better accommodate all New Yorkers, we’ve been participating in the NYPA/NYS Canal Corporation’s Accessibility Education Program, and work closely with Rochester Accessible Adventures (RAA) as Inclusion Partners. Members of our staff have already:
- Completed Inclusion Ambassador Training, which includes ways to deliver more inclusive services and principles like person-first language.
- Become Certified Inclusivity Assessors, with in-depth training on implementing accessibility and inclusion best practices.
- Are in the process of assessing our programs and operations and are beginning to implement a new, more inclusive approach to our work.
As part of our work with RAA we have identified an inclusion point of contact, Jonathan Duda, who, while not yet an expert on all things inclusion, eagerly awaits questions and conversations from anyone seeking support, information on inclusive practices, or assistance in ensuring that every PTNY guest feels welcome and supported.
We are excited to be on this journey with you and are committed to knowing better and doing more to make our parks, trails, and public lands available to all New Yorkers.
Grants Manager & Inclusion Point of Contact
Jonathan Duda
grants awarded to expand accessibility
New York State’s parks, trails, and historic sites belong to everyone, and our Park and Trail Partnership Grants program helps make that vision a reality. The grants fund projects that create a better sense of inclusion and equity and encourage investment in better infrastructure to make our spaces accessible to all.
The $2.65 million grant program keeps expanding in both the number of applications received and the funding awarded. Through our webinars, application materials, and ongoing conversations with applicants, we actively promote DEIA-focused initiatives. It’s rewarding to see projects achieve meaningful progress in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility—whether that means enhancing physical accessibility or presenting a fuller, more accurate account of New York’s history. Below are a few examples:
Adaptive Boat Launches & accessible docks
Grants have funded several adaptive use kayak, canoe, and boat launches and universally accessible docks throughout the state. These mechanisms have been installed on the shores of to allow for easier, safe access for those with disabilities to transfer into watercraft. The launches and docks are not only reserved for those with physical disabilities, but can also provide better support and stability for elderly users and beginners. PTPG has funded launches and docks at the following locations:
- Point au Roche State Park
- Higley Flow State Park
- Black Creek (Rochester)
Mobi Mats are an effective means to provide easier access to beaches for people with wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility requirements that are not compatible with sand. In 2022 the Friends of Hamlin Beach State Park were awarded funds to install the mats on their Lake Ontario beach.
Trails and Pathways
Thousands of feet of trails and pathways traversing our parks and historic sites have been upgraded with PTPG funding.
Grant Cottage Overlook Trail
Two grants funded the engineering study, plans, and the construction of an accessible pathway leading to the Overlook–one of the most remarkable features of the popular state historic site that was a challenge for many visitors due to the width and grade of the original paved pathway. The new trail winds through the woods at a gentler slope and is made of materials that are suitable for wheelchairs and walkers.
Jay Heritage Center Pathway Upgrades
The installation of ADA paths at the historic site located in Westchester County were constructed of a firm decomposed granite material, which now allow greater accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers into the new Jay Estate Gardens.
Buildings and Structures
Volunteer Center at Little Stony Point
The construction and features of this structure with a pressing need have been funded by multiple PTPG grants over the years. In 2024 the building received an upgrade to its restroom with the installation of an ADA accessible flush toilet and sink along with door handles and railings bringing the frequented structure into compliance with Parks’ Code of Compliance.
Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum General Store Improvements
The replica 19th-century general store was made ADA accessible by adding appropriate walkways and renovating the existing restroom with ADA upgrades and converting to gender-neutral use.
Our Whole History
The webpage for NYS Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation’s “Our Whole History” initiative states it, “seeks to reveal and share historically undertold stories of ordinary and extraordinary people across New York State by providing multiple perspectives on historic places and events.” The Park and Trail Partnership Grants have funded numerous projects that inspire our community to delve deeper into our state’s past and honor the diverse voices that shape our shared story.
Tactile Objects at Schuyler Mansion
The historic site in Albany’s South End neighborhood has brought to life many of the untold stories of the enslaved people who resided at the 18th century mansion. To highlight some of these stories (and to make them more accessible to those who learn differently), the Friends of Schuyler Mansion partnered with the Capital Region Center for Independence and the Northeast Woodworkers Association to create hands-on replicas of a drawing found in the attic where servants once resided. Additionally, in an effort to convey the difference of fabric quality of clothing worn by the wealthy families and visitors compared to the materials worn by the enslaved residents, cloth samples were produced and are now displayed for tour participants to touch and compare.