Innovative Facilities Open at Airport

(Phoenix, AZ) --Meeting the needs of travelers has reached a new level at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. In response to suggestions by the public, the airport is installing adult changing stations in family restrooms. The stations are designed to provide people with disabilities, and their caretakers if necessary, a comfortable and private location to change clothing or disposable undergarments.

The first adult changing station is now open in Terminal 2 and has a 30 by 60 inch padded platform. The platform is located in the corner of the restroom, attached to the wall. The changing station has grab bars, a removable padded vinyl cover and a recessed toe clearance for easy accessibility. The grab bars are compliant with specifications set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Herb Hacker, who serves on the Phoenix Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues (MCDI) stated, “The Commission reviews projects for accessibility. This project is over and above the minimum requirements. The adult changing station enhances universal design and universal accessibility.”

An additional adult changing station is being designed for the family restroom in Terminal 3 and will incorporate an ADA compliant shower. In the future, adult changing stations will be installed in Terminal 4 as part of the retail redevelopment project as well as in the Sky Harbor rental car facility, currently under construction.

As Mayor Phil Gordon recently noted, "I welcome and embrace all who want a better life, a better city, a better future. We all have a place in Phoenix. We all belong."