Public comment sought on how to improve accessibility at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

The National Park Service is seeking public feedback on the park’s Draft Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

The draft documents existing barriers to accessibility, provides recommendations for improving in-park access and proposes timeframes to implement changes. Suggested improvements include upgrades to park structures, programs and services.

The document will be available for public review and comment starting Dec. 12.

The Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan resulted from the work of an interdisciplinary team in the National Park Service, including individuals with expertise in planning, design, construction, and interpretive, resource, visitor safety, maintenance, and accessibility specialists. The team developed site plans identifying the location of accessibility barriers and crafted an implementation strategy to assist park staff in scheduling and performing required actions and documenting completed work.

“It is important that visitors of all abilities are able to enjoy the incredible experience that Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offers,” said Superintendent Rhonda Loh. “This plan describes our proposed strategy to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment in popular locations throughout the park. We look forward to hearing from you.”

The Draft Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan was prepared to provide analysis and an opportunity for public review and comment. The draft plan is available on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/HAVO-SETP.

Comments may be submitted online at the project website by clicking on “Open for Comment.” Comments will be accepted through Jan. 11, 2024.

All comments, including personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. Although respondents may request that their comments and personal information are withheld from public review, the park cannot guarantee that it will be able to do so.

For more information on Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, visit the park website, www.nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes.