Press Release  DCR’s Universal Access Program Hosts Adaptive Recreation Fair at Herter Park in Brighton

Boston — As part of the agency’s ongoing work to ensure its parks and properties are accessible to all Massachusetts residents regardless of ability, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Universal Access Program (UAP) hosted a free Adaptive Recreation Fair on Saturday, June 10 at the Artesani Playground in Brighton’s Herter Park.  

“DCR is committed to ensuring that our parks, beaches and trails are welcoming places for people of all abilities across the Commonwealth,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “The Universal Access Program provides equipment and adaptive programming, enabling visitors to our state parks and beaches to enjoy the natural, recreational, and cultural resources that we know are important to our physical and mental well-being.” 

“The Universal Access Program strives to improve outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors to participate in, regardless of ability,” said UAP Director Tom McCarthy. “The UAP’s Adaptive Recreation Fair was an excellent opportunity for people with disabilities to get outside, socialize, and connect with organizations across the region to learn about accessible recreation programs offered in the greater Boston area and beyond.” 

The event drew more than 400 attendees, making it UAP’s largest Adaptive Recreation Fair yet. Attendees had an opportunity to meet with representatives from various regional adaptive recreation organizations and learn about accessible, adaptive, and inclusive recreation opportunities in Greater Boston and across the state. In addition, there were opportunities to sign up for upcoming adaptive summer programs like fencing, sailing, kayaking, dance classes, yoga, and rock climbing. The family-friendly, accessible, and inclusive event included activities such as cycling with an assortment of adaptive cycles, and hiking and letterboxing with all-terrain wheelchairs and walkers. The fair also offered accessible equipment demonstrations, face painting, kite decorating, mask making, sidewalk chalk drawing, golf, bubble blowing, games, and music and dancing. 

UAP is committed to providing outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts State Parks for visitors of all abilities. Accessibility to our state parks is achieved through site improvements, free specialized adaptive recreation equipment, and free or low-cost accessible recreation programs. UAP strives to increase participation in indoor and outdoor recreational activities in integrated settings. 

UAP offers accessible cycling, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, hiking, and rowing programs in the summer and fall, and adaptive skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and other winter activities at various Massachusetts State Park facilities. 

For more information on DCR’s Universal Access Program and a schedule of activities, call (857) 319-2168, email DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov or visit www.mass.gov/dcr/universal-access. 

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