In an effort to make the great outdoors more accessible to everyone, Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is stepping up. They're introducing new all-terrain wheelchairs (ATWs) to aid residents with disabilities during their outdoor adventures. These specially designed wheelchairs are poised to take on a variety of terrains, ensuring that less-than-smooth paths are no obstacle to enjoying nature's bounty.
These ATWs are a part of the county's broader initiative to promote recreational inclusivity. “Creating equitable access to recreation opportunities is one of our core commitments,” Leslie Johnson, deputy County manager and interim director of Park and Recreation, told MeckNC. The department's aim is for residents of all abilities to tap into the therapeutic and recreational benefits that come from immersing oneself in green spaces.
Availability of these ATWs begins on Monday, offering a new lease on life for those who, up until now, might have found the trek into nature's arms an insurmountable challenge. Residents can lay claim to an ATW for as much as three hours, once a day from Monday to Friday.
Those interested in this service can make reservations now through a simple phone call or by visiting one of the five Park and Recreation facilities in person. Designed to handle all sorts of outdoor environments, the ATWs are a testament to Mecklenburg County's dedication to inclusivity and the enhancement quality of life for all its residents, a commitment that Johnson affirmed in her statement obtained by MeckNC news.
