Universal Design

Universal Design (UD) creates outdoor spaces that are welcoming, accessible, and usable for ALL people — regardless of age, mobility, or ability.

From young families pushing strollers to older adults, veterans, and individuals living with permanent or temporary disabilities, inclusive outdoor spaces strengthen community connection and improve quality of life for everyone.

As life expectancy increases and more individuals live with injuries, illnesses, sensory differences, and mobility challenges, the need for thoughtfully designed public spaces continues to grow. Accessibility is about far more than ramps and sidewalks — it means creating environments that accommodate a wide range of sensory, physical, and cognitive abilities so all community members can fully enjoy parks, trails, and recreation spaces.

That’s why the forthcoming Universal Design Toolbox is so important.

The Universal Design Toolbox will provide practical resources for NRPC communities, including municipalities, civic groups, nonprofits, and businesses, to help assess, plan, and improve outdoor spaces with accessibility in mind from the very beginning — not as an afterthought.

With your support through NH Gives, this initiative will help communities:

• Identify barriers that prevent residents from accessing outdoor spaces
• Implement practical, inclusive design solutions
• Support year-round accessibility and equitable recreation opportunities
• Create safer, more welcoming public spaces for people of all ages and abilities

The Universal Design Toolbox will empower local leaders with guidance on accessibility analysis, planning, and prioritization so communities can make meaningful improvements that benefit everyone.

This work is made possible through partnership support from Merrimack County Savings Bank — and with help from donors like you, we can expand the impact even further.

Your NH Gives donation will help build more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to connect with nature, recreation, and each other.