Yesterday (Sunday, July 26) marked the 25 anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
You may have missed it. If you’re non-disabled, you probably never think of it. If you have a disability, you may have been out on a glorious Westport day. Perhaps you were at the beach or Longshore, or enjoyed a night at the Levitt — all easily accessible for everyone.
As a town, Westport has enabled access, supported transportation and provided programs and services that promote inclusion for people with disabilities.
When a new beach wheelchair was delivered 3 years ago, then-Parks & Rec director Stuart McCarthy gave Rotary president Irwin Lebish a ride.
Now, the town hopes to do more.
First Selectman Jim Marpe, and a steering committee headed by Barbara Butler (director of Westport Human Services) and Jim Ross (chair of the Westport Citizens Transit Committee) are considering a proposal to create a permanent Westport Commission on People with Disabilities.
The group would serve as a resource for people with disabilities and their families, as well as offer guidance to town officials on the development of programs and policies enabling residents to participate fully in community life.
The steering committee has created a short survey, seeking feedback on the initiative. They ask all “06880” readers to click here to participate.
