A Comprehensive and Strategic Master Plan Goal Highlight
Inclusivity, in our parks, programs, and digital spaces, is a core value at the Park District of Oak Park. Because of this commitment, one of the goals outlined in the 2025-2029 Comprehensive and Strategic Master Plan is to ‘Continue Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).’
Compliance is just the starting point. Our true goal is to ensure that every visitor of every ability feels welcome and able to fully enjoy their parks and recreation experience.
The Park District of Oak Park follows an ADA Transition Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide our course as we budget and plan for both major improvements and small, incremental updates. Some updates may appear minor, but they have a big impact on safety and comfort for all.
Accessibility in Action at Austin Gardens and Andersen Park
For example, in Summer 2025, our Properties & Planning team repaired a section of uneven pavers at Austin Gardens. While it may seem like a small change, ADA guidelines specify that surface changes in level cannot exceed one-fourth inch, and gaps cannot exceed one-half inch. This repair not only brings the path back into ADA compliance, but also makes navigating the park easier for strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, and every park goer in between.
At Andersen Park, accessibility upgrades are underway on a larger scale. As of Summer 2025, we are adding an accessible exit ramp from the Center to the patio, widening existing walkways, incorporating accessible playground equipment, and adding new playground surfacing. While traditional mulch technically meets ADA standards, the new playground grass is a significant improvement for wheelchair users.
Looking Ahead
Accessibility isn’t about checking boxes, but about raising the standard across our parks and programs.
To learn more about accessibility at the Park District, visit pdop.org/ada.
Click here to watch a brief video on ADA compliance at the Park District!
