Handicapped access to the parks

Spokane and the Parks Department have established fabulous sites for all of its citizens to enjoy. They do an incredible job!

Their availability of sports fields is impressive - children and adults have a generous availability.

Unfortunately, I am currently home-bound (like many others), and I truly enjoy my ability to watch my children and grandchildren play on these fields. I, along with many using walkers, wheelchairs and leg scooters, have these rare opportunities to get outside and enjoy family - that is, of course, if they can get to a field!

Last week I had the joyous opportunity to watch my grandson hit his first double - that is, after it took me a half-hour to get to the field having to traverse uncut and uneven grass. There was absolutely no accessibility for people in handicapped positions. This resulted in many family members not being able to watch!

At the end of this event my family chose to drive to the field so I did not have to repeat my entrance (that was extremely taxing). We were told that no vehicles were allowed on the grass way to the field. So how does maintenance get there to groom the fields?

It would be a valuable addition to the parks and recreation of Spokane to create accessibility to their already fabulous facilities. I know that many families in my situation would greatly appreciate this addition.

Helen Matlock

Spokane