Expanded Accessibility: State Parks Introduce Track Wheelchairs for Uncharted Terrain Exploration
Getting Outdoors for All: Texans with Mobility Challenges Gain Access to State Parks
It seems that more Texans are embracing the beauty of the Lone Star State's nearly 90 state parks – but for those with mobility issues, enjoying these stunning landscapes has been a struggle. That's all about to change, thanks to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's new initiative.
They're introducing motorized track wheelchairs to help individuals with mobility challenges access and enjoy the parks they've been missing out on.
Macie Richter, an accessibility specialist for Texas Parks and Wildlife, filled us in on the details of this game-changing project.
This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity:
Texas Standard: This seems like a significant stride towards making outdoor exploration more inclusive. Can you explain these all-terrain vehicles the department is deploying?
Macie Richter: Absolutely! We currently have 11 all-terrain powered track chairs throughout our state parks, and we're looking to expand this fleet. At present, we've distributed six units across Texas, aiming to gather feedback to facilitate the acquisition of additional chairs.
The goal here is to improve access to parks and trails for people who might not have had that opportunity before.
What can you tell us about these vehicles or chairs? What do they look like?
They rather resemble military tanks, complete with tracks. Each chair is sizeable, with our largest unit measuring approximately 40 inches in width. These chairs come equipped with a joystick control system, adjustable seats, tilt options, charging ports, and lights, if needed.
Is the aim to give people a sort of hiking experience?
Indeed! These chairs are designed for all-terrain use, traversing rugged landscapes, mud, snow, and obstacles, depending on the slope incline. However, each park will have its unique set of guidelines regarding recommended areas for use.
MORE: Texas Parks and Wildlife adds over 650 acres near Big Bend National Park*
How far off the beaten path can these vehicles go?
The range is largely dependent on the park; if you're seeking a remote, breathtaking spot, they can assist for about three hours at a time. But if there are steep drops or narrow paths, access might be limited. Nevertheless, these chairs have the capacity to take you as far as your imagination allows.
Let's dive into some specifics. How much do they cost? Can you simply hop on and go? Who can use these vehicles? And where are they currently available?
There's no cost associated with using these mobility devices; anyone can reserve them by contacting the park directly. We recommend asking for reservations at least two weeks in advance, particularly if adjustments or support are needed.
As of now, motorized track chairs are available at five different parks – and soon, these will be joined by the EcoRover, which will be deployed in six additional parks: McKinney Falls, Government Canyon, Estero, Dino Valley, Cedar Hill, and Brazos Bend.
We've also heard that Texas Parks is looking to enhance the experience for visitors with colorblindness. What's the plan for that?
Yes, we've recently installed around seven colorblind viewing scopes at various parks. These scopes will greatly benefit individuals with colorblindness, enabling them to view nature through glasses that let them see vivid, vibrant colors.
In recent years, there's been a push for greater accessibility in public buildings, among other things. Some might wonder why it's taken so long for there to be a focus on the outdoors. Why is this happening now?
That's an excellent question! I believe that, in recent years, people have come to recognize the significance of nature and outdoor experiences for our physical and mental well-being. While we work every day to make our facilities more accessible, these adaptive equipment pieces are crucial for allowing people to explore parts of Texas state parks that were previously inaccessible to them.
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Enrichment Data:
- Texas state parks offer two types of motorized track wheelchairs for people with mobility challenges: the EcoRover and the Action Trackchair.
- Both models provide a comfortable and safe means for users to explore rugged terrains, such as sandy beaches, grassy fields, and other natural environments.
- EcoRover Specifications:
- Width: 29.5 inches
- Length: 48 inches
- Weight: 350 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 275 pounds
- Top Speed: 3 mph
- Range: Up to 7 miles (standard battery) / 15 miles (lithium battery)
- Ground Clearance: 5 inches
- User Controls: Operated by a joystick, with a companion joystick available.
- Comfort and Safety Features: Power-tilting, reclining contoured seat, adjustable armrests, footplates, headrest, and a harness seatbelt.
- Additional Features: Dual cupholders, LED lights, USB ports, and a rear tray.
- Action Trackchair Specifications:
- Width: Varies by model, typically 37–43 inches
- Length: Approximately 52.5 inches
- Weight: Around 400 pounds
- Weight Capacity: Up to 300 pounds
- Top Speed: 3 mph
- Range: Up to 7 miles
- Ground Clearance: 3.5 inches
- Terrain Handling: Heavy-duty tracks designed for stability on rugged terrain.
- Comfort Adjustments: Seat tilt, cushioned armrests, adjustable footrests, and rear stability wheels; equipped with a harness seatbelt for safety.
- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's new initiative includes the deployment of all-terrain powered track chairs, like the EcoRover and the Action Trackchair, to enhance accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges in state parks, aiming to improve their experience in enjoying the parks they've been missing out on.
- The motorized track wheelchairs used in Texas state parks come equipped with various features, such as a joystick control system, adjustable seats, tilt options, charging ports, and lights, making them suitable for all-terrain use, including mud, snow, and obstacles, depending on the slope incline.
