NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee State Parks announced new accessibility features heading to four parks.
The group announced the installation of adult-sized changing tables at four state parks to increase accessibility for all visitors, bringing the total number of state parks with these tables to 10. This announcement came on International Persons with Disabilities Day.
The new parks with adult-sized changing tables are listed below.
- Johnsonville State Historic Park
- Montgomery Bell State Park
- Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park
- Red Clay State Historic Park
State parks that already have the changing tables are listed below.
- Fall Creek Falls State Park
- Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Paris Landing State Park
- Pickwick Landing State Park
- Reelfoot Lake State Park
According to a release from the parks, the changing tables are meant to enhance accessibility within the parks. The tables will assist in changing for adults with disabilities, children and teens.
"Beyond being more convenient and dignified for visitors who need them, tables like these open new possibilities for traveling and enjoying parks for many visitors and their caregivers," the group said.
According to the release, the tables utilize a remote to adjust the height of the table, with each table lowering to approximately 12 inches off the ground and reaching a height of 39.5 inches when raised.
"The changing tables at Johnsonville State Historic Park and Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park are funded by the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, the Tennessee Valley Authority’s North Region, and state appropriations," Tennessee State Parks said. "The table at Red Clay State Historic Park is funded by the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, TVA’s East Region, and state appropriations. The table at Montgomery Bell State Park is funded by state appropriations."
According to TSP, one in three adults and around 5% of the child population in Tennessee lives with a disability. So the parks are committing to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can "explore, enjoy, and connect with nature."
