Release Date: March 4,2025
Akron Municipal Courthouse Installs Universal Changing Station
Akron, Ohio, March 4, 2025 – The Akron Municipal Courthouse has installed its first universal changing station in the Caregiver Room, located on the first floor, to serve those with disabilities and medical conditions as well as their caregivers. This is a private, secure space for nursing mothers and now, those wishing to utilize this changing station.
The courthouse is located at 172 S. Broadway St. in Downtown Akron.
This was made possible by Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD) who was able to fully fund this initiative using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant dollars. The universal changing station was purchased from Foundations Worldwide, Inc. which is headquartered in Summit County’s Richfield, Ohio.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities describes a universal changing table as: “an adult-sized changing table designed to accommodate the personal care needs of individuals regardless of height, weight, or level of mobility. It is a place where caretakers can conveniently and safely assist with bathroom needs for those who may be unable to care for themselves, including individuals with disabilities, children, babies, aging adults, and people who use a catheter.”
The Akron Municipal Courthouse is believed to be the first courthouse in the nation with a universal changing station. Last month, Governor Mike DeWine unveiled the first of 29 planned universal changing stations at rest areas throughout the state of Ohio.
“Providing accessibility for everyone is important to us,” said Administrative/Presiding Judge David Hamilton. “This addition ensures children and adults with special needs who visit our courthouse will have those needs met in a dignified, respectable manner.”
In 2021, Akron Municipal Court Judge Ron Cable created the Connect Program for adults with developmental disabilities who are also in the criminal justice system. Summit DD provides services to those enrolled in Connect.
“Summit DD has been a fantastic justice partner in Connect and I am grateful for their assistance with this project as well,” said Judge Cable. “Thanks to Summit DD, we are able to ensure all caregivers can utilize this on-site resource.”
Lisa Kamlowsky, Superintendent of Summit County DD, is also proud of this partnership.
“The Akron Municipal Court is known for their innovative programming and services,” said Kamlowsky. “It’s a beautiful thing to have government agencies collaborating like this. The ability to provide access to a universal changing station serves both our missions.”
The universal changing station is available to court users and the public during the building’s open hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.