Espy Adaptive Sports Complex

Approach

Interior renovations of the Franklin Park Adventure Center, a building that primarily supports the City of Columbus, Recreation and Parks Department’s Therapeutic Recreation Program. This program provides opportunities for recreational activities that are adapted to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. Therefore special attention is needed to make the facility as inclusive as possible with modifications that allow people with a wide spectrum of abilities to enjoy physical activities and socialization.

Currently the facility could use several modifications to allow for overall compliance with ADDAG / ANSI accessibility and to better serve the needs of users as well as staff.

This project will find solutions for these modifications:

• Upgrading public and staff / family restrooms
• More accessible toilets, in particular for users of power chairs
• Addition of an adult changing station
• Reconfiguration of the reception area for better visual control, function and a more inviting aesthetic
• Renovation / upgrade of the gymnasium / exercise floor

The visioning session revealed stakeholders’ desire for a space that is clean, bright, and easy to navigate for users of all mobility levels. Many of the center’s users have experienced a great deal of challenges in their lives, so the ideal design would provide a sense of peace and grounding, in addition to being as accessible as possible.

The team created solutions for more accessible restrooms, more easily navigable reception area as well as upgrades to the gymnasium for better visibility.