Lexington Parks & Recreation rolls out new accessible ‘trackchair’ program – first in Kentucky
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
Mayor Linda Gorton, councilmembers, and Lexington Parks & Recreation staff cut a ribbon to officially launch a new trackchair program at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. The new, all-terrain Action Trackchair, based at the park, allows for more inclusive access to unpaved trails for those with mobility issues. The program is the first of its kind in Kentucky.
“The program utilizes the STS model by Action Trackchair, a company specializing in all-terrain wheelchairs. Funding to launch the program was provided by the Urban County Council, working with Lexington Parks & Recreation.
“I am happy to be here today as we launch this program,” said 9th District Councilmember Whitney Elliott Baxter. “When I was younger, my father and I spent a lot of time in nature, but as he aged, his mobility became a challenge. I always wished there was a way to get my kids and my dad outdoors together. With access to an all-terrain chair like this, our family would have had the opportunity to create a lot of different memories together. I am proud that Lexington is paving the way for our state, and making our nature trails more accessible for everyone to enjoy.”
The chair is available for reservation at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. While the park offers two paved, accessible trails, the new program expands access to other areas that would have been previously unreachable for those with mobility challenges.
“Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is one of Lexington’s premiere nature destinations, featuring picturesque locations, rich history, and access to view Kentucky’s native flora and fauna,” said 12th District Councilmember Hil Boone, whose district includes Raven Run. “It is a special place here in rural Fayette County, and we are proud to have it in the 12th District. Allowing residents with mobility issues to access more of this incredible park is critical in making sure everyone can appreciate Raven Run’s beauty, and the many benefits nature provides.”
The chair allows visitors to access an additional five miles of unpaved trails at the park, and to participate in programs that typically take place along those trails, such as owl prowls, bird walks, and other nature programming.
The Action Trackchair will also be a resource for the Therapeutic Recreation program, part of Parks & Recreation that offers activities for those with disabilities and special needs.
“Accessibility is a critical part of everything we do,” said Monica Conrad, Director of Lexington Parks & Recreation. “From paved ADA trails, such as this Discovery Trail at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, to playgrounds with accessible features – we want to make sure our parks and facilities are welcoming for everyone. We are thrilled to launch this program and expand on what we can offer. We’re excited to see where this program can go and potentially offering it at other parks in the future.”
Reservation times are available now at lexingtonky.gov/ravenrun. Users will be accompanied by a guide who is able to offer assistance with the chair. A dedicated trackchair trail map will guide users on which trails are accessible with the chair and route options at the park.
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
