An eight-month project to improve access at White Auditorium has finally come to fruition.
City of Emporia Community Services Officer Shelly Kelley, a recent guest of KVOE’s Talk of Emporia, shared the news that a new $23,988 chair lift was recently installed at the auditorium. Kelley says a major hindrance for individuals visiting the auditorium has been the lack of access to the second-floor concourse.
She says thanks to the installation of the lift handicapped individuals now have access to more options for seating. Previously the options were extremely limited with most wheelchair-bound individuals being limited to seating at ground level which Kelley explains put them right in the line of fire during events such as basketball games and other sporting events.
Kelley says discussions on the installation of the lift followed a recent American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) assessment. She adds the need was further emphasized after a friend of hers attended an event at White with a significant other who was wheelchair bound and saw the lack of options for accessibility.
Along with the addition of the lift, Kelley adds there will also be marked seating for wheelchair-bound individuals and their companion at events. Kelley explains these additions will help to continue growing Emporia and White Auditorium’s reputation of hospitality and inclusiveness.
The new wheelchair lift is accessible on the second floor of White Auditorium next to the little theatre. To access the lift individuals may take the elevator to the second floor and the lift will be directly in front of them.
The designated wheelchair seating will be located at sections 1, 6, 12 and 17. Work on installation of the seating is currently ongoing.
For more information contact Shelly Kelley at 343-4291.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
{gallery}White Auditorium Chair Lift{/gallery}
