Opening Spaces: Forum on Proposed Accessible Trail at Cedar Wood Preserve

A forum on March 7 to introduce the public to Avalonia’s plan for an accessible trail at Cedar Wood Preserve in Norwich was attended by a crowd both appreciative and full of good ideas. The forum was held at Otis Library in downtown Norwich.

Led by Avalonia Board member Elanah Sherman and supported technically by Office Manager Mary Anne Sherman (no relation), the forum was part of the application process for a design grant Avalonia has submitted to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Attending were several Avalonia members; Avalonia’s sign language point person, Joy Valenti; Otis Library staff; and key staff members from Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut (DNEC).

A PowerPoint presentation included background information about Avalonia and specifics about the application, which includes a proposal by landscape architects Kent & Frost of Mystic. The proposal reflects Avalonia’s commitment to establishing a trail that responds to the outdoor needs of people with a wide variety of disabilities, including mobility, sensory, and intellectual.

Some elements of the proposal include an accessible trail with edging for cane-guided movement; benches; alcove areas for retreat and extended sign language communication; and enhanced accessible place-making/trail marking. Ideas offered by the DNEC attendees included the availability of new technologies for communicating (through Q-codes) information to people with visual disabilities, plus people who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or late-deafened.

Thanks to all who participated in this latest effort to create a more accessible outdoor world!