AccessAble Survey: Cataloging Accessibility

Oct. 20, 2023

From October to mid-November, you may notice people in our buildings measuring entryways and ramps and taking photos. These surveyors are from AccessAble -- a leading provider of disabled access information – and are partnering with Princeton to produce detailed access guides of the buildings, parking facilities and sports venues on campus.  

The project is being led by Michael Barnes, the University’s inaugural Director of Accessibility. “Accessibility means that everyone should be able to get everywhere,” said Barnes. “This project will provide people with disabilities and their caregivers the information they need to better navigate campus.” 

AccessAble has been producing accessibility information for over 20 years. They were established by their founder as a direct result of his experiences as a wheelchair user. With 375+ clients, AccessAble serves over 5 million disabled people a year through their website. They have completed surveys at other prestigious institutions with historic buildings and infrastructure. 

During the survey period, AccessAble will look at accessibility in Princeton’s buildings from a pan disability perspective and collect 100s of pieces of information, including measurements and photographs. Every building on campus will be surveyed. The purpose of the survey is not to give buildings a rating or say whether the access is good or bad, it is to simply collect access information. 

AccessAble surveyors will also train a team of Princeton University staff. This team will be responsible for surveying all teaching spaces and supporting the update of information as the campus grows and undergoes improvements. AccessAble will remain a partner, providing practical support to Facilities teams in the ongoing re-development of spaces and the design of our new buildings. 

Once complete, the access guides will integrate with the new campus wayfinding app and be available online. This will provide a comprehensive program of accessibility information, supporting staff, students and visitors to navigate throughout the entire campus environment. The guides are scheduled to be launched in early 2024. 

There are about 42.5 million Americans with disabilities, according to U.S. Census Bureau data from 2021. This group includes people with hearing, vision, cognitive, walking, self-care or independent living difficulties. “We want to promote what we offer now and look at how we can improve the experience for students and staff with disabilities in the future, as part of our sustained commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Barnes. “We recognise that access begins online, and that having comprehensive accessibility information removes a key barrier to people accessing Princeton University, providing equity of experience.”