Accessibility

Our vision for accessibility

In 2013, the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens gathered a group of volunteer leaders and city staff to develop a long-range strategic plan. [Read more about our Strategic Plan here.] Ideas at these sessions divided into seven focus areas. One addressed accessibility. 

Our vision is to increase accessibility to the Arboretum regardless of physical ability.”

Our progress toward greater accessibility

We have made strides with the addition of playground equipment for those with physical challenges in the Lion’s Club Children’s Playground area:

In 2015, thanks to Dubuque Racing Association funding, we added three new tour carts. [Read more about our Tours.]

In 2016, we continued to make headway closing the access gap with another key component: walkways.

Many of our visitors are advanced in years and come from area care facilities. We want to be sure all can come and enjoy everything the gardens have to offer.”

—Sandi Helgerson, Executive Director

Until recently, the brick walkway ended at the Herb Garden. With the help of funding from the Dubuque Regional Hosta Society, the Dubuque Racing Association, and The Wahlert Foundation, the brick walkway extension now connects to the Hosta Shade Garden and the Formal English Garden.

[The walkway was constructed by Sanchez Lawn Care & Landscaping who did an excellent job. Thanks to Wylie Bledsoe who oversaw the project.]