New City, NY-— BRIDGES, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for individuals with disabilities, is set to begin an exciting and groundbreaking project in New City, NY. The organization has acquired a home at 4 Ann Street, where it will undergo a transformative renovation using Universal Design principles to create a space that is accessible, functional, and inclusive for people of all abilities.
This pioneering project is a major milestone for BRIDGES, which works tirelessly to provide resources, advocacy, and direct services to people with disabilities, empowering them to live independently. The renovation of 4 Ann Street will set a new standard for accessible housing in the community, demonstrating how Universal Design can make homes adaptable and usable for people with various needs, including young children, older adults, and individuals living with disabilities.
Universal Design refers to the process of creating environments that are accessible and functional for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or mobility. This approach ensures that a home can accommodate diverse needs without compromising on style or practicality. BRIDGES’ renovation of the 1,300-square-foot home at 4 Ann Street will include several key features designed to make daily life more accessible for everyone.
Some of the standout features of the renovation will include:
- Step-free entrances and wide doorways for improved mobility and accessibility.
- Lever-style handles and smart home technology to enhance convenience and independence.
- Adjustable-height kitchen countertops and pull-down shelving for easy use by all individuals.
- Barrier-free bathrooms with curbless showers to ensure safety and comfort.
- Non-slip flooring and enhanced lighting to increase safety and usability throughout the home.
The renovation is more than just a home improvement project—it’s a demonstration of the future of accessible housing. BRIDGES plans to use the renovated 4 Ann Street home as an educational tool for the community. Through tours, workshops, and events, BRIDGES will showcase Universal Design principles to inspire homeowners, builders, and policymakers to adopt these practices in their own projects.
“This project represents a giant step forward in creating housing solutions that work for everyone,” said Carlos Martinez, Executive Director of BRIDGES. “Universal Design is about making homes accessible, but it’s also about creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. We hope this project will inspire others to reimagine living spaces and embrace inclusive design for the benefit of our entire community.”
The renovation will be carried out in partnership with architects, contractors, and accessibility experts, including Robert Bernstein from BILD Architecture, Joanna Wasilewska from M4 Interiors, and support from the Idea Center in Buffalo, NY. These professionals are working closely with BRIDGES to ensure the project meets the highest standards of Universal Design and visitability.
Visitability is a growing trend in accessible design that focuses on making single-family homes more inclusive. It includes three key elements: a zero-step entrance, doorways that provide at least 32 inches of clearance, and a bathroom on the main floor that is wheelchair accessible. These features allow people with mobility challenges, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers, to navigate and visit homes comfortably.
The renovation is set to begin on August 1, 2025, with an anticipated completion date of December 1, 2025. BRIDGES is actively seeking community partnerships, sponsors, and volunteers to help support the project. The organization is welcoming donations of money, materials (such as windows, doors, flooring, and cabinetry), as well as donations of time and services.
To learn more about BRIDGES, Universal Design, or how to get involved with this transformative project, visit www.bridgesrc.org or call 845-624-1366.