Oregon Becomes First U.S. State ‘Accessibility Verified,’ Ushering in New Era of Inclusive Tourism
Oregon has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, officially becoming the first state in the United States to be designated “Accessibility Verified.” This landmark achievement is the culmination of a comprehensive statewide initiative by the Oregon Tourism Commission, operating as Travel Oregon, in partnership with the global accessibility platform Wheel the World (WTW). The designation signifies a profound commitment to ensuring that tourism experiences across the state are transparent, inclusive, and readily navigable for individuals with visible and non-visible disabilities.
A Landmark Designation for Inclusive Travel
The “Accessibility Verified” status elevates Oregon as a national leader in accessible tourism, moving beyond standard compliance measures to provide travelers with detailed, reliable information. This designation is the result of a coordinated effort to evaluate, promote, and improve the accessibility of tourism businesses throughout Oregon’s seven distinct tourism regions. Unlike self-reporting programs or basic ADA compliance checks, Wheel the World employs a rigorous, on-site evaluation process. Trained “mappers” physically measure and document over 200 specific accessibility features at each location, including details on doorway and hallway widths, step-free entrances, roll-in showers, and sensory-friendly spaces. This meticulous approach empowers visitors to plan their trips with confidence, knowing precisely what to expect.
The Partnership Behind the Milestone
Travel Oregon and Wheel the World have collaborated closely to bring this vision to fruition. Travel Oregon, a semi-independent state agency dedicated to promoting tourism and enhancing visitor experiences, spearheaded the statewide effort. Wheel the World, an online travel marketplace founded on the principle of making travel accessible to all, provided its specialized technology and verification methodology. This partnership ensures that comprehensive accessibility data is available online, integrated into both Travel Oregon’s and Wheel the World’s platforms. This extensive initiative has seen over 750 hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tourism businesses in 43 communities assessed, building upon earlier local efforts like those on the north Oregon coast.
Opening Doors for Travelers to Explore and Enjoy
The “Accessibility Verified” program aims to remove common barriers and uncertainties that travelers with disabilities often face. By providing verified, detailed information, individuals can more easily explore Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from its rugged coastline to its lush forests and mountain ranges. The platform offers tailored recommendations powered by AI, along with 24-hour customer support, catering to a wide range of needs, including mobility, visual, hearing, and cognitive challenges. This allows visitors to enjoy Oregon’s natural beauty and cultural experiences with greater ease and assurance. Accessibility advocate Kaylee Bays, who has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, has partnered with Travel Oregon to share her experiences, highlighting how the initiative has opened up new possibilities for her to enjoy the state.
Economic and Community Impact
This pioneering designation is expected to provide a significant boost to Oregon’s local economy. By attracting a new wave of travelers who may have previously faced planning challenges, the state anticipates increased support for local businesses, the creation of new job opportunities, and overall growth in the tourism sector. Tourism is a vital industry for Oregon, contributing $14 billion in annual spending and supporting 120,000 jobs. Globally, visitors with disabilities contribute an estimated $120 billion to the economy, a figure that could significantly increase with improved accessibility and welcoming environments. Travel Oregon views investing in accessibility not just as a social imperative but as a smart business strategy that benefits residents and visitors alike.
A Vision for an Inclusive Future
Oregon’s achievement sets a precedent for other destinations across the nation and the world. The “Accessibility Verified” status reflects a deep and ongoing commitment to welcoming all travelers, embedding inclusion meaningfully into the visitor experience. Through this partnership and its ongoing commitment to accessible tourism initiatives and grants, Oregon is paving the way for a future where travel is truly for everyone. This news is a testament to the state’s dedication to ensuring that all individuals can explore, discover, and enjoy all that Oregon has to offer.
