Celebrating 36 Years of the ADA
This July 26, we celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark civil rights law that continues to expand opportunity, independence, and inclusion for millions of Americans.
For more than 30 years, the National Center on Accessibility (NCA) at the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands has helped turn the promise of the ADA into action. Through research, accessibility assessments, training, planning, and technical assistance, NCA has partnered with parks and recreation agencies across the country to create more welcoming experiences for everyone.
10 Ways the NCA Has Advanced Access
- Conducted 70+ accessibility assessments for national parks and dozens more for state and local parks and nonprofits.
- Published practitioner-focused research reports that have informed accessibility standards and national policy.
- Developed accessibility improvement plans with prioritized recommendations and cost estimates.
- Evaluated visitor experiences to improve meaningful access.
- Delivered accessibility training and certification for thousands of park and recreation professionals.
- Provided planning and technical assistance to agencies across every phase of accessibility projects.
- Helped organizations strengthen their policies, practices, and procedures to improve inclusion.
- Partnered with agencies to develop ADA self-evaluations and transition plans.
- Collaborated with parks, museums, historic sites, and public lands to remove barriers while preserving natural and cultural resources.
- Championed the idea that accessibility is about creating welcoming experiences, not just meeting minimum standards.
As we celebrate the ADA's legacy, we also celebrate the people and partnerships that continue to move accessibility forward. Together, we can ensure that parks, public lands, and recreation remain places where everyone belongs.
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