Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails

Universal Design

The best way to integrate accessibility is to use the principles of universal design. Universal design is simply designing programs and facilities to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without separate or segregated access for people with disabilities (figure 3). Using universal design principles is Forest Service policy, as stated in Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2330.3 These directives are available at http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/.

Figure 3— Friends enjoy a break during a stroll on a boardwalk through a wetlands area. A trail built on universal design principles makes it possible for a whole group to enjoy the same experience.

Since the early 1990s, the Forest Service has followed the universal design policy that all new and reconstructed facilities, programs, and associated elements are to be accessible to the greatest extent possible. This commitment often exceeds the minimum requirements of the Federal accessibility guidelines. The result of universal design is independence, integration, and dignity for everyone.

More information on accessibility guidelines is provided in the next part of this guidebook.