Wheelchair Accessibility in Focus amid Missouri Capitol Renovation: The Matter of Mobility and the Promise of Renovation

– Missouri’s Capitol is in dire need of improvements to increase accessibility.
– The current renovation plans do mention accessibility changes.
– There is, however, uncertainty if these changes will greatly benefit people with disabilities, including reporters.

Wheelchair Accessibility in Focus amid Missouri Capitol Renovation

The Matter of Mobility

While historical structures like the Roman Colosseum boast efficient wheelchair accessibility, Missouri’s Capitol pales in comparison. With intricate stairways and labyrinthine passages, navigating through the building can be a challenging task, especially for individuals using wheelchairs. Even mundane tasks, like traversing a small flight of stairs with a baby stroller, can become monumental undertakings.

The Promise of Renovation

With renovation plans, optimism is brewing for a more accessible Missouri Capitol. Yet, there is a degree of uncertainty on how these upgrades will serve the disability community, including those in the press corps.

The Breezy Take

While the notion of enhancing accessibility is commendable, the test lies in execution. The renovation plans should not just be inclusive in word but also in deed. Missouri Capitol’s renovation paves a golden opportunity to ensure that people of all abilities can effectively navigate and appreciate this historical site. Especially in spotlight are reporters with disabilities, whose work often necessitates frequent visits to such public structures. Enhancing accessibility would not only make their jobs efficient but also reaffirm the architectural mantra: “the only disability in life is a bad attitude.”


Original article: https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/03/missouri-capitol-renovation-plan-mentions-accessibility-does-this-include-reporters/

Scroll to Top