Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Announcement

19 hours ago
3 min read

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Announces Addition of Universal Changing Table to Enhance Accessibility

Table was unveiled at 10 AM on Thursday, June 4, 2026

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is proud to announce the addition of a height-adjustable, universal changing table to meet the restroom needs of people with disabilities and the aging population. The table was installed through a collaboration with the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services and Changing Spaces Ohio, an organization advocating for accessible restrooms.

“National Parks are for everyone. By adding a universal changing table, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park has reaffirmed the commitment of the National Park Service to creating spaces that welcome our whole community,” said park superintendent Kendell Thompson. “Accessible restrooms are crucial for many to be able to visit their national park—especially as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. We hope this addition encourages people with disabilities and their families and caregivers to create new experiences and be inspired by both the successes and the resiliency of the Wright Brothers and Paul Laurence Dunbar.”

People with disabilities, especially those in wheelchairs, often need a private, accessible space to address their restroom needs—one that includes a universal changing table. The tables are similar to infant changing tables found in many public restrooms but are designed to accommodate the height and weight of adults. Without these tables, youth and adults with disabilities cannot access public venues or must be changed on the floor or in unsafe environments.

“Unfortunately, typical public restrooms do not include the equipment or space necessary to meet the restroom needs of many people with disabilities,” said Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Interim Superintendent Kamarr Gage. “The installation of this table will provide people with disabilities a safe, hygienic, and dignified space to address their restroom needs and allow them to enjoy historic stories in authentic places without having to worry about their personal care.”

The Dayton Aviation Heritage NHP changing table project was initiated by the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services. The Board approached National Park leaders about the possibility of installing a table. Representatives of the Board and Changing Spaces worked with park leaders to select the table and identify the best site for its installation and was guided by International Building Code specifications. Funds for the table were provided by the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities through the American Rescue Plan Act.

The Dayton Aviation Heritage NHP changing table is located on the Wright Dunbar Interpretive Center’s second floor near the elevators. The table can accommodate people up to 440 pounds.

“We are grateful to the National Park Service for partnering with us to promote involvement by all communities,” said Gage. “These tables will allow many people with disabilities and their families to experience these important historical stories in person for the first time and return as often as they wish.”

For information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, visit www.nps.gov/daav.

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Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park preserves and interprets the history and legacies of the Wright Brothers and Paul Laurence Dunbar. Learn more about these extraordinary men and the story of the park when you explore www.nps.gov/daav or find us on social media at facebook.com/DaytonAviationNPS, and @DaytonAviationNHP on Instagram.