NDAD has awarded a $5,000 Adaptive Recreation Grant to the City of Dickinson to support the installation of an accessible changing space at Legacy Square, a popular downtown gathering place for community events and activities.

The City of Dickinson plans to install an adult changing table within the family restroom at Legacy Square, making the space more accessible for individuals who require assistance with personal care. Legacy Square hosts free concerts, festivals, and seasonal activities throughout the year, and this improvement will allow more individuals and families to comfortably attend and fully participate in these events.

Removing Barriers to Community Participation

Accessible facilities are a critical part of inclusive public spaces, particularly for individuals with medical or mobility-related needs that are often overlooked in traditional restroom design.

“Accessible public spaces are essential to building strong, inclusive communities,” said DeAnn Burckhard, Marketing Director at NDAD. “By supporting this project in Legacy Square, NDAD is helping remove a significant barrier so individuals with health challenges and their families can comfortably attend events, enjoy shared community spaces, and fully participate in Dickinson’s downtown activities.”

The addition of an adult changing table addresses a gap that can prevent individuals from spending extended time in public spaces or attending events at all. With this improvement, Legacy Square will better serve residents and visitors of all abilities.

A Lasting Accessibility Improvement

City leaders view the project as a meaningful, long-term investment in accessibility and community inclusion.

“The project addresses a critical accessibility gap that currently prevents some individuals from fully participating in public events,” said Carter Fong, Marketing and Events Director for the City of Dickinson. “The addition of this changing space will improve visitor experiences in Legacy Square and create a lasting, high-impact accessibility improvement that ensures we are able to serve all members of the community.”

Part of a Statewide Commitment to Inclusive Recreation

This award is one of 12 grants distributed statewide through NDAD’s Adaptive Recreation Grant program during the current funding cycle. In total, NDAD awarded $60,390 to organizations across North Dakota that are expanding inclusive recreation and physical activity opportunities for people with disabilities.

Through partnerships with communities like Dickinson, NDAD continues its mission to promote access, dignity, and participation by helping make public spaces more welcoming and usable for everyone.