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CDBG Funding
Dear Commissioners:
I am writing in favor of Paris Gibson Square's proposal for CDGB funding for a much needed handicapped and wheelchair-accessible restroom in the Education Department in the basement of our public building. The Education Department caters to classes designed for the young and old, the able bodied and also those in wheel chairs and other mobility assisting implements. Currently the aging toilet is very small, low to the ground and inefficient in the basement. The stall door to the single toilet on the entire floor, is very narrow; denying access for those in wheelchairs and restricting movement for those that rely on walkers. In order to use a handicap accessible restroom patrons have to traverse the long hallway from the east to the west end of the building, take the elevator up one floor and then traverse the 2nd floor hallway again to the bathroom at the very east end!
Funding for a bathroom on the lower level of The Square, where all of our classrooms are, warrants CDGB support. I am the Curator of Art for The Square and know first-hand how important it is to allow for access and basic comforts to our visitors with special needs. In exhibitions I accommodate a diverse audience by having larger print font available, hanging art at a medium of 56", a height that allows adults, small children and those in wheel chairs alike the access to participate through experience. An accessible restroom is fundamental for all patrons that visit or attend classes at The Square. Further, our organization houses a Very Special Arts (VSA) program that partners with Easter Seals-Good Will and local retirement communities to offer student with special considerations an opportunity to take art classes. Some of these VSA students are in wheelchairs and attend classes in our public building on a weekly basis. It is critical that we offer a convenient restroom for these mobility impaired visitors in our low to moderate income area and I ask that you move forward with supporting this important project.
Sincerely,
Kristi Scott
