Improving Accessibility at a Winter Sports Facility: A Holistic Assessment of Guest Access

Throughout the literature, there is evidence of environmental, attitudinal, and administrative barriers to individuals with disabilities’ participation in recreational activities. The purpose of this Doctoral Capstone (DC) was to address these barriers at Perfect North Slopes (PNS), a ski resort in southeastern Indiana. The aim was to complete a holistic assessment of guest access at PNS to provide recommendations on how to improve the accessibility and inclusivity of their facilities, policies, activities, and procedures. To do this, the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Checklist for Existing Facilities; generation of recommendations for ADA compliance and functional use of the site; provision of financial quotes for recommendations; staff education; creation of guest resources; guest survey; and creation of a shared Google Drive were completed. A total of 478 recommendations were provided to the site: 323 to meet ADA compliance and 155 for functional use of the site. Additionally, the survey, with a 25% response rate, provided quantitative and qualitative data on guests’ experience with adaptive snow sports at PNS. Fifteen guest recommendations were documented in the survey for what they would like to see change at PNS for increased access. This project highlights the gap between adaptive recreation opportunities and the accessibility of the facilities they are held at. At the conclusion of the DC, 2 recommendations have been completed. Following the conclusion of the DC, PNS should be positioned to take their next steps in increasing their accessibility and inclusivity to enhance their guests’ experiences.