Dayton Art Institute Announces Addition of Universal Changing Table to Enhance Accessibility

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Table to be unveiled at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4.

(DAYTON, OHIO) – March 3, 2025 – The Dayton Art Institute is proud to announce the addition of a height-adjustable universal changing table to meet the restroom needs of people with disabilities and the aging population. The table was installed through a collaboration with the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services and Changing Spaces Ohio, an organization advocating for accessible restrooms. 

“By adding a universal changing table, Dayton Art Institute has reaffirmed our commitment to creating spaces that welcome all in our community,” said DAI Director & President Michael R. Roediger. “Accessible restrooms are a vital resource, and we hope this addition encourages people with disabilities, their families and caregivers to create new experiences and lasting memories at the DAI.”

People with disabilities, especially those in wheelchairs, often need a private, accessible space to address their restroom needs—one that includes a universal changing table. The tables are similar to infant changing tables found in restrooms at restaurants and shopping and entertainment venues, but are designed to accommodate the height and weight of adults. Without these tables, youth and adults with disabilities cannot access public venues or must be changed on the floor or in unsafe environments.

“Unfortunately, typical public restrooms do not include the equipment or space necessary to meet the restroom needs of many people with disabilities,” said Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Interim Superintendent Kamarr Gage. “The installation of this table will provide people with disabilities a safe, hygienic and dignified space to address their restroom needs and allow them to enjoy the wonderful art and culture the Dayton Art Institute offers without having to worry about their personal care.”

The DAI changing table project came about when the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services approached Art Institute leaders about the possibility of installing a table. Representatives of the Board and Changing Spaces worked with leaders to select the table and identify the best site for its installation, and used the specifications of the International Building Code as guidance. Funds for the table were provided by the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities through the American Rescue Plan Act.

The DAI changing table is located in the museum’s Lower-Level South Gallery. The table can accommodate people up to 440 pounds.

In 2024, DAI leaders also expanded accessibility to the Museum’s collection when they launched a guide on the Bloomberg Connects App. This app provides features such as language translation, alt text for images, audio recordings and zoom-in capability for photos.

“We are grateful to the Dayton Art Institute for partnering with us to promote inclusion,” said Gage. “These tables will allow many people with disabilities and their families to enjoy the Art Institute’s collection for the first time, and return as often as they wish.”

For information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, visit the Dayton Art Institute website www.or call 937-223-4ART (4278). 

ABOUT DAYTON ART INSTITUTE
MISSION: Through art, we create transformative and diverse experiences, strengthen community connections and inspire imagination.

VISION: Through art, we will be a community leader recognized as a welcoming, thought-provoking and collaborative place that nurtures inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.

The Dayton Art Institute (DAI) is the Miami Valley’s premier fine art museum, offering a full range of programming in addition to exhibiting its collection. The museum is currently open Wednesdays, 11 AM–5 PM; Thursdays, 11 AM–8 PM; Fridays & Saturdays, 11 AM–5 PM; and Sundays, noon–5 PM. Go to www.daytonartinstitute.org/visit for the latest museum information and updates. Museum admission is $15 adults, $10 seniors (60+), active military and groups (10 or more), $5 students (18+ w/ID) and youth (ages 7–17), free for children (ages 6 & younger) and free for museum members. Admission includes access to all Special Exhibitions, Focus Exhibitions, The Lange Family Experiencenter and the museum’s collection galleries. Some events and programs may carry an additional charge and include museum admission as part of that price. Free parking is available at the museum, and the facility is fully accessible. The DAI’s Museum Store and Leo are open during regular museum hours, offering unique shopping, as well as drinks and tasty treats. The Museum Store also offers online shopping at www.daimuseumstore.org. For more information about the DAI, visit daytonartinstitute.org or call 937-223-4ART (4278). The Ohio Arts Council helps fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The DAI also receives support from Culture Works and the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District.

ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY BOARD OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES
The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services (MCBDDS) is the local government agency that provides services, supports and funding to nearly 4,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Montgomery County, Ohio. MCBDDS has led the effort to place universal changing tables in public spaces statewide, and has provided American Rescue Plan Act funds for installations in high-traffic venues in Montgomery County. The agency also operates a mobile changing table loan program for Montgomery County citizens and organizations to use for Montgomery County-specific events, as well as a Mobile Accessible Restroom that can be rented for festivals and large events.

ABOUT CHANGING SPACES
The Changing Spaces Campaign is a nationwide advocacy movement formed to spread awareness of the need for height-adjustable adult-size changing tables for children and adults in public places. The Ohio Chapter of the organization has made great progress toward the installation of such tables, partnering with the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities and collaborating with other organizations to help them select and install tables and lifts throughout Ohio. Changing Spaces Ohio and its nonprofit, Inspired Access Foundation, created a map showing the location of universal changing tables throughout the country. 

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Dayton Art Institute Media Contact
Erin Wood, Marketing Communications Manager
ewood@daytonart.org; 937-223-5277, x 242

Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services Media Contact
Janice Saddler Rice, APR, Director of Communications
jrice@mcbdds.org; 937-776-0866

Changing Spaces Campaign Ohio Media Contact
Jennifer Corcoran, Co-Lead
changingspacesoh@gmail.com; 937-307-3509