Visitors to the Hartford Independent Fair this year will find two new accessible options to meet their needs.

Working in partnership with the Hartford Fair Board, the Licking County Board of Developmental Disabilities (LCBDD) will offer an accessible restroom with a universal changing table and a sensory room in the building located between the Commerce and Arts and Crafts buildings.

“We are so excited to make this available for our community,” said Anna Jeffries, LCBDD’s public information officer. “When events are more inclusive, our entire county benefits!”

LCBDD began leasing space in the building, which was formerly a dormitory, during the 2024 fair. Now known as the LCBDD Family Resource Center, the building provides space for fair visitors to connect with local community organizations and enjoy inclusive activities.

LCBDD received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding to renovate the bathroom and shower space in the building and create the accessible restroom and sensory space.

As the project progressed, LCBDD worked closely with Changing Spaces Ohio and occupational therapists from the Licking and Coshocton boards of DD, as well as OCALI, to select equipment and establish best practices.

Both the accessible restroom and the sensory room will be available to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 4 to Aug. 8.

The accessible restroom offers a universal changing table and a Hoyer lift. Those planning to use the Hoyer lift should bring their own sling. There is also a private restroom with a toilet, sink and roll-in shower.

“We have found that the benefits of a universal changing table extend far beyond the people we support,” Jeffries said. “We’ve received feedback that older adults, veterans and people who need a clean space to manage their medical needs all appreciate having this option.”

The sensory space will offer a quiet space with low lighting and sensory-friendly seating. It may be helpful to those with autism or others who need a break from the sounds, smells and crowds of the fair.

Both rooms are climate-controlled and will be cleaned regularly throughout the fair.

“We are so grateful for the ARPA funding that made this project possible and the Hartford Fair Board has been incredibly supportive,” Jeffries said. “We are thrilled that now even more people will have the opportunity to enjoy ‘The Biggest Little Fair in the World.’”

Signage will be displayed throughout the fairgrounds to guide people to the Family Resource Center. LCBDD staff will be present while the spaces are open to assist the public and ask that the restroom and sensory room spaces be reserved for those who need to use them. Photos and information will be available for those who want to learn more about these options.

“This is a great opportunity to educate our community about some important accessibility options,” Jeffries said. “But first and foremost, we want to provide resources that families can use to plan their day and enjoy the fair even longer.”

LCBDD Family Resource Center will also offer a week of activities

The accessible restroom and sensory room are just a few of the features available to the public at LCBDD Family Resource Center.

The Center will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 4 to Aug. 8 and guests will have the opportunity to experience five days of different activities. The schedule is below:

• Monday, Aug. 4: Assistive Technology Fair: Learn more about technology options to help people live more independently.
• Tuesday, Aug. 5: Ready for the Future: Find out about local resources for teens and young adults as they prepare for life after high school and win some prizes!
• Wednesday Aug. 6: Early Childhood Family Fun: Bring the little ones for a day of games, fun and information for parents about local resources for families.
• Thursday Aug. 7: Meet the Providers: Learn more about the dedicated caregivers who support people with disabilities in our community and find out about career opportunities.
• Friday Aug. 8: Community Partner Day: Meet some of the great community partners who bring services and supports to Licking County and score some fun giveaways.

The Board will also have a table with the other county agencies under the Grandstand from noon to 6 p.m. Aug. 4 through Aug. 8 and LCBDD staff members will be happy to direct people to the Family Resource Center and its amenities.

Updates on all fair activities will be shared on LCBDD’s social media pages, @LCOUNTYDD.