The Beat

To Enhance Outdoor Accessibility and Inclusivity

New Environmental Investments Will Create Immersive, Welcoming Destinations for Children with Disabilities Statewide

$10.8 Million in Environmental Bond Act Funding Committed to “Living Environment” Reinstein Woods Expansion and Improved, Safe Access to Scenic Zoar Valley

Governor Kathy Hochul today kicked off Earth Week in New York State by launching the “These Lands Are For Everyone” accessibility and inclusivity initiative with the first two major outdoor recreational infrastructure investments helping connect more New Yorkers of all abilities with the environment. With $10.8 million in new funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, “These Lands Are For Everyone” is advancing a pair of inclusive, accessible Western New York-based environmental projects to build on Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts helping all New Yorkers thrive independently with dignity and opportunity.

Rochester, NY (April 9, 2026) — A collaboration between the Disability EmpowHer Network and the Memorial Art Gallery is helping ensure that more members of the community can safely experience and engage with the arts—both in everyday moments and in times of emergency.

The initiative began through EmpowHer Camp, a leadership program where participants design community impact projects addressing real barriers faced by disabled people. Payton Roselli, a young artist herself, chose to focus her project on accessibility within art spaces, centering on a critical but often overlooked question: how people with disabilities safely evacuate public spaces.

County expands Wheel the World initiative, adding 13 new destinations in 2026

Orange County, N.Y. (Feb. 16, 2026) – Orange County, N.Y., recently strengthened its commitment to accessible tourism by adding 13 new destinations to the Wheel the World platform in 2025. Building on that progress, the county plans to welcome 13 additional verified locations in 2026, continuing its work to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all. As part of this initiative, Orange County also proudly partnered with Love Is Blind Season 9 personality and accessibility advocate Madison Maidenberg to spotlight inclusive winter travel experiences and highlight the region as a destination where everyone can explore with confidence.

Beacon, NY – The Bannerman Castle Trust (BCT) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $27,450 matching grant from the Environmental Protection Fund’s Parks and Trails Partnership Grants program.The funding will support a transformative project on Pollepel Island, connecting the existing "Red Trail" to "The Grotto," a previously hidden architectural feature.

Queensbury, New York – Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL) is proud to announce the launch of its Adaptive Mural, created by local artist Hannah Williams, a traveling piece of accessible public art designed to bring inclusive, community-centered art to Warren, Washington, and Saratoga Counties. The mural was funded through the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC).

Aquarium of Niagara & Seneca Park Zoo Will Offer ASL-Interpreted Programing Oct. 11-12. 

Niagara Falls, N.Y.; (Oct. 2, 2025) — Two Western New York zoological facilities, in collaboration with regional partners serving the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, are teaming up to promote inclusivity, connection, and awareness of Western New York's vibrant Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. …

NYS Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grant Applicants Encouraged to Attend

Waterford, NY - The New York State Canal Corporation and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor are offering two virtual workshops in advance of opening the 2026 funding round of NYS Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grants on October 14. The workshops are focused on helping grant applicants improve accessibility for their projects and events so that they serve people with and without disabilities.