Sky Harbor Receives Accessibility Award from Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues

Phoenix, AZ – The City of Phoenix Aviation Department has received an award for its innovative customer service enhancements for people with disabilities. The installation of adult changing stations is the reason the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues selected Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for an Architectural Accessibility Award. Sky Harbor Architect, Norbert Senftleben and others from the Phoenix Aviation Department accepted the award October 27 at the “Ability Counts” luncheon, hosted by the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has received national attention for its two adult changing stations in family restrooms, one in Terminal 2 and one in Terminal 3. The Terminal 3 family restroom is now also equipped with a shower, designed for use by people with disabilities. The adult changing stations are padded platforms which provide people with disabilities, and their caretakers if necessary, a comfortable and private location to change clothing or disposable undergarments. The changing stations have grab bars, removable padded vinyl covers and recessed toe clearances for easy accessibility.

Sky Harbor began designing and installing adult changing stations earlier this year, in response to requests from travelers. Additional changing stations will be installed in Terminal 4 as part of the retail redevelopment project, and in the Sky Harbor Rental Car Center, currently under construction.