New Bedford’s Buttonwood Park Zoo Adds Adaptive Bikes for Visitors With Disabilities

A new addition has just arrived at Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, but it's not a new member of the animal kingdom.

Over the years, baby animals have been born and play spaces have been created. Just recently, the zoo opened a brand new animal ambassador building.

Now, two new adaptive bicycles join the list of improvements at Buttonwood Park Zoo.

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Buttonwood Park Zoo Continues Accessibility Improvements

The generous gift came from Rare Riders, a SouthCoast-based nonprofit that donates adaptive bicycles, providing life-changing freedom and mobility to children with disabilities.

Rare Riders Donation Brings Adaptive Bikes to the Zoo

"We are very grateful to Rare Riders for the work they do and the doors they opened for us and our visitors," BPZoo Community Relationship Manager Katie Correia said.

The bikes were donated thanks to an Autism Community Impact Grant from the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism.

New Features Designed for Visitors With Disabilities

Making the zoo a destination that can be enjoyed by all is top priority for Correia and the team at the zoo. "Our newly removed Charlie’s Nature Play space was paved during the renovation to make it easier for walkers and wheelchairs to explore the space," she said.

"The new sandbox has a transfer bench to allow for easy wheelchair access. A ramp was also installed near the Lynx habitat to improve accessibility," Correia said. "Accessibility is so important, and we are doing what we can to be as accessible as possible."

Adaptive Bikes Available for Adults and Children

The zoo now has two adaptive bikes available: one for adults and one for children.

"We were so thrilled," Correia said. "These bikes are not cheap and to be given such a generous gift that will benefit our visitors was such a joy."