Audits Investigate Accessibility at
State Parks and Colleges

Concrete ramp way with stainless steel handrail and disabled sign for support wheelchair disabled people in the park.

This week, State Comptroller DiNapoli released two audits to review if state parks and state colleges are complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The first found New York State parks generally met the ADA’s minimum standards but could be significantly improved to make them far more accessible.

“The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation recognizes the importance of improving accessibility to the New York State parks system but must do a better job incorporating this goal into its processes for maintaining and operating its sites and improve its communications with and responsiveness to the public,” DiNapoli said.

DiNapoli’s audit of six State University of New York (SUNY) campuses found that accommodations have been provided to students who identify as having a disability, including outreach regarding available services. The audit found that the buildings and structures reviewed were ADA compliant, but identified 170 areas where accessibility could be improved. SUNY agreed to actively work to evaluate these areas and improve accessibility, along with improved disability services and required record keeping.

State Comptroller DiNapoli continues to be a staunch supporter and advocate for people with disabilities through the office’s work, including administering the New York’s ABLE program. The latest audits follow DiNapoli’s audit of New York City parks’ accessibility, along with a report on disability unemployment and an audit of the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities’ emergency response in group homes, during the worst waves of COVID-19.

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