Athens Hosts Accessibility Walk April 8

Athens hosts eighth annual Walk, Talk, and Roll event April 8 to raise awareness about accessibility challenges faced by residents with disabilities

Athens Hosts Accessibility Walk April 8

Athens residents can experience firsthand the challenges people with disabilities face navigating the city during the eighth annual Walk, Talk, and Roll event Friday. The Athens City Commission on Disabilities hosts the accessibility awareness event April 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Athens County Courthouse on South Court Street. Participants will walk or roll to information stations within a couple blocks of the courthouse, learning about sidewalk policy, public transportation, parking, and recent accessibility improvements.

Context

The annual event brings together community members, business owners, and college students to discuss accessibility barriers in Athens, according to the Commission. Representatives from SOCIL, HAPCAP Athens-Hocking Mobility Management, and the City of Athens will staff interactive stations covering key accessibility topics. The Commission coordinates the event through its Accessibility and Advocacy Committee, which works year-round to advocate for public policy changes that improve access for residents with disabilities. ASL interpreters will be available throughout the event.

Details

Event coordinators Ally Hughes and Rob Delach, who serve on the Commission's Accessibility and Advocacy Committee, organized multiple interactive stations within walking distance of the courthouse. The event features the Court Street Challenge, where wheelchairs are available for anyone wanting to try navigating the brick pavement within the traffic signal's allotted timeframe. Participants who visit all stations will be entered into a raffle for a gift certificate to Bagel Street Deli. Refreshments and pizza will be provided during the midday event.

Timeline

The Walk, Talk, and Roll event takes place Friday, April 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with all activities concentrated in the downtown area near the Athens County Courthouse at 1 South Court Street. The two-hour format allows participants to visit multiple information stations and engage in conversations with Commission members and partner organizations. Officials didn't specify whether advance registration is required or if walk-up participation is welcome.

Impact

Commission Chair Annah Korpi said the event encourages two-way conversations and provides an opportunity to hear stories and experiences about accessibility in Athens from diverse community voices. The Commission remains committed to providing a platform for disability concerns and advocating for policy changes that improve accessibility for all residents. Moovit provides real-time transit information and accessible route planning for Athens-area riders navigating public transportation options discussed at the event.