Image
May 08, 2018
Beachgoers now have an easier time accessing Rehoboth Beach by wheelchairs, strollers or walkers. The city installed two new Mobi-Mats, semi-permanent, polyester, and American with Disabilities Act-compliant pathways. The new Mobi-Mat locations are at Delaware Avenue and Maryland Avenue. “People with accessibility issues do their research and see that Rehoboth Beach has access,” said Commissioner Kathy McGuiness. McGuiness began working with City Manager Sharon Lynn and Streets Supervisor Mike Peterman in 2017 to provide new mats. The mats were purchased for $9,000 with money secured via Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf and Senator Ernie Lopez from community transportation funds. “We want to make everyone’s visit enjoyable. The natural beauty of our beach should be barrier-free to all our citizens and visitors. We believe that this project will inspire other local businesses and stakeholders to consider how they can improve accessibility within the community and promote Rehoboth Beach as an accessible community,” said Mayor Paul Kuhns. The mats receive daily maintenance to remove sand. The mats are easy to maintain, lightweight and slip-resistant, and they are easily removable in the event of a major storm. The mats lie on top of the sand, providing an easier transition from the Boardwalk over the dunes to the beach.
Image
(l-r) Senator Ernie Lopez, Mayor Paul Kuhns, Streets Supervisor Mike Peterman, Commissioner Kathy McGuiness, Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf
