Delaware State Parks Introduce All-Terrain Wheelchairs for Visitors
Nature enthusiasts rejoice: Delaware broadens exploration possibilities within state parks through the introduction of off-road Trackchairs.
Delaware State Parks have taken a significant step towards enhancing accessibility, introducing the Action Trackchair program. This innovative initiative, launched by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), now offers all-terrain wheelchairs at five state parks: White Clay Creek, Cape Henlopen, Lums Pond, Killens Pond, and Trap Pond [1][2][3].
These high-tech wheelchairs, equipped with motorized treads, headlights, a horn, and adjustable seats, allow people with disabilities to navigate various terrains with ease. The seats can even tilt forward or backward depending on the terrain, making the chairs ideal for exploring trails and paths that were previously inaccessible [1][2].
Free Use and Reservation Process
The Action Trackchairs can be reserved at no cost for three-hour sessions. To use the chairs, individuals must first view a short instructional video provided by the park authorities. The chairs also come with companion controls, allowing family members or assistants to operate them if needed [1][3].
A New Outdoor Experience for All
The program is a part of DNREC's broader commitment to enhancing accessibility at Delaware state parks. Plans are underway to add or improve over 70 accessible amenities, including mobility mats at beach crossings and braille signs [1][5].
Users of the program, like Dawn Worthley, have reported positive experiences. Dawn, who has cerebral palsy, has become an advocate for the program, encouraging others to take advantage of this opportunity. She believes that similar programs should be available for handicapped individuals and older people in various locations, including theme parks like Disneyland or Disney World [2][5].
Feedback on the Trackchair at White Clay Creek State Park has been very positive, with Melville, likely a representative from DNREC, expressing interest in adding more Trackchairs to other parks [2].
For Dawn, the Trackchair has brought a sense of freedom, happiness, and excitement, making her feel important and able to do what others can do [3]. She has found the chair to provide a new outdoor experience, enabling her to access areas of the park previously unreachable.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control continues to expand its Action Trackchair program across state parks, providing an accessible experience for everyone, opening up trails and concerts to new visitors.
[1] Delaware State Parks. (n.d.). Accessibility. Retrieved from https://destateparks.com/accessibility
[2] Delaware State News. (2021, August 2). Trackchair program expands to five state parks. Retrieved from https://www.delawarestatenews.net/news/local_news/trackchair-program-expands-to-five-state-parks/article_c80216e8-4a4d-11eb-b916-fbbb8a3a64a8.html
[3] WDEL. (2021, August 2). Delaware State Parks expand Trackchair program to five parks. Retrieved from https://www.wdel.com/local/2021/08/02/delaware-state-parks-expand-trackchair-program-to-five-parks/
[4] Delaware Online. (2021, August 2). Delaware State Parks expand Trackchair program to five parks. Retrieved from https://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2021/08/02/delaware-state-parks-expand-trackchair-program-five-parks/5410609001/
[5] WBOC. (2021, August 2). Delaware State Parks expand Trackchair program to five parks. Retrieved from https://www.wboc.com/2021/08/02/delaware-state-parks-expand-trackchair-program-to-five-parks/
- With the addition of all-terrain wheelchairs in Delaware State Parks, people with disabilities can now explore the outdoors and engage in home-and-garden activities, such as picnics or hiking, more comfortably.
- The Action Trackchair program, which offers all-terrain wheelchairs at Delaware state parks, promotes an inclusive lifestyle by making outdoor living more accessible for everyone.
