The Partnership for a Disability Friendly Community has recognized Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Kempton, for helping to create an inclusive, accessible and welcoming community with the opening of its new Accessible Trail.

“This project is the greatest inclusionary outcome in our entire region, if not the entire state,” said Amy Beck, executive director, Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living. Beck serves on the steering committee for the partnership and was on hand Nov. 18 to present the certificate of recognition to Hawk Mountain President Jerry Regan and Board Chairman Fred Beste.

Beck, who uses a wheelchair, explained that it’s especially difficult to find accessible outdoor spaces simply because the regulations do not yet exist. Karen Shoemaker, executive director, The Arc and who also serves on the steering committee, agreed: “Everyone wants to enjoy the same opportunities, but usually if access isn’t required, it doesn’t happen. That’s wasn’t the case with Hawk Mountain.”

The Accessible Trail at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary bends 900 feet in a wide arc, offering a longer but less steep pathway to the South Lookout. The pathway features resting areas after every incline, bench seating, an accessible education area near the lookout, and a smooth viewing platform at the South Lookout. The new trail opened in July at the not-for-profit wildlife sanctuary known for its scenic views and for the chance to watch annual hawk migrations.

“Over the course of year, Hawk Mountain used to see just a handful of people who used wheelchairs. Now with the Accessible Trail, we see someone nearly every single day and often times, several people in one day. It’s the best project I’ve ever been involved with,” said Regan.