The frozen lake may seem inherently inaccessible, but Art Shanty Projects embraces this challenge with creativity to joyfully welcome visitors with disabilities! Program accessibility initiatives include:

• Parking: Accessible parking is available to permitted cars in the Bandshell Lot nearest Bread & Pickle
• Ramps: Two ADA compliant ramps will bring visitors from the shore down to the surface of the lake. These are located at the edge of the lake on the patio in front of Bread & Pickle. From the ramps, follow a plowed path leading to the welcome gate. NOTE: There is a second plowed path near 42nd Street that leads towards the gate – be prepared for a big step down to the ice here (no ramp).
• Paths: Pathways will be plowed on shore around existing park infrastructure, and on ice from shore to gate and throughout the village.
• Kicksleds are available for rides throughout the village. One is equipped to accommodate a wheelchair. Meet at the Kicksled Stop at the bottom of the ramps (in front of Bread & Pickle) where staff and volunteers will greet you and escort you onto the ice. You can also use them with your friend!
• Restrooms: Porta-potties are available on shore near the parking lot, including ADA units.
• Sign Language Interpreters & Audio Describers: ASL interpretation and audio description services are available on Sundays from 12pm – 3pm. Meet at the Welcome Shanty just inside the entrance gate and we will connect you with your guide! We offer a choose-your-own adventure experience – you decide what projects you want to visit.
• Printed Maps: Printed maps will be available with shanty names and relevant accessibility and sensory information. Ask for one at the Welcome Shanty!
• Scritch & Scratch’s Free Stuff Surplus: Artists are offering new and gently used winter wear free to the public at this free store located in the Town Triangle
• Signage: We are committed to creating high contrast signage throughout the village
• Shanties and Performances: Staff works with artists directly to incorporate accessibility into their project design
• Training: Board and staff receive accessibility training and disability etiquette to ensure a welcoming atmosphere for all community members
• Outreach: We do outreach to ensure members of the disability community are invited to our program and are aware of our accessibility plan
• Evaluation: Our efforts will be evaluated by a four-person team of accessibility professionals (and shanty enthusiasts!) to help adjust our plan for future years and advise on the creation of an outreach plan for artists and visitors with disabilities. This project is supported by an Accessible Arts grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board