In my recent TEDx Talk, I asked, “What would the world look like if designed by the Disability Community?” Navy Pier—a place I love and one of Chicago’s iconic landmarks—came to mind. It’s already made strides in accessibility, like the adaptive Centennial Ferris Wheel, where wheelchair users can stay in their chairs.
But imagine if every part of Navy Pier was fully accessible, not only for wheelchair users but for the Deaf, blind, those with sensory sensitivities, and more. Picture spaces designed to be calming, SoundShirts that let Deaf visitors feel music, and inclusive workshops led by artists with disabilities.
This vision reflects the ideas and needs of the Disability Community, creating a space that welcomes everyone. Here’s what we’ve envisioned so far—what more could we dream up together?
EXPERIENCE SOUND WITH SOUND SHIRT TECHNOLOGY
The Lyric Opera of Chicago introduced SoundShirt technology, giving deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons a new way to experience live performances. Navy Pier debuted this tech at DisFest 2024. The SoundShirt translates sound into vibrations across 16 tiny motors in the shirt, allowing wearers to feel music through their skin. Key features include:
- Microphones capture sounds of individual instruments.
- Live signal triggers activate vibrations in specific areas of the shirt.
- Inclusive seating is arranged for views of both the conductor and sign language interpreter.
This technology, developed by CuteCircuit, is another way Navy Pier is making the arts accessible. Imagine SoundShirt at:
- Chicago Shakespeare Theater: Feel the power of the live orchestra.
- Beer Garden: Experience the rhythm of outdoor concerts.
- Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns and Crystal Gardens: Enjoy festivals, special events, and exhibitions in a whole new way.
The SoundShirt could even enhance experiences on the Centennial Wheel, allowing users to feel an audio tour synced with the views of Navy Pier.
LOW-SENSORY RESPITE SPACES
Creating low-sensory spaces would offer a soothing retreat for individuals with sensory sensitivities. These rooms feature:
- Minimal visual and sound stimuli
- Soft, diffused lighting or adjustable options
- Noise-absorbing materials and varied seating textures
- Sensory tools like weighted blankets or fidget toys
Strategically placed, these spaces could allow visitors to decompress near:
- The main entrance to ease transitions
- High-stimulation areas like the Children’s Museum and Centennial Wheel
- Festival Hall and food courts
These spaces would benefit those with autism, sensory processing disorders, and anxiety. They also provide a quiet area for parents, elderly visitors, and anyone who needs a moment away from the bustling pier.
INCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE WORKSHOPS
Navy Pier’s workshops could go further by incorporating inclusive arts experiences led by artists with disabilities. Imagine workshops in:
- Dance with seated and standing movement options
- Theater using sensory-friendly elements and visual aids
- Music with adaptive instruments and technology
Potential leaders could include artists from Momenta Dance Company, known for its work with dancers of diverse abilities, and Tellin’ Tales Theatre, experts in inclusive storytelling. Workshops could take place in outdoor spaces like the Beer Garden or in rehearsal rooms at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
These workshops offer artistic opportunities for individuals with disabilities, families, and aspiring performers, fostering collaboration and creativity.
NAVIGATING NAVY PIER WITH VISION IMPAIRMENTS
For blind and low-vision visitors, Navy Pier offers tactile and audio features across several attractions:
- Chicago Shakespeare Theater provides audio descriptions and touch tours to explore costumes and set pieces.
- Chicago Children’s Museum has tactile exhibits and sensory tours with hands-on experiences.
- Flyover—an immersive ride—enhances the experience with motion and wind effects, with audio descriptions to guide visually impaired guests.
SETTING NEW STANDARDS FOR MOBILITY ACCESS
In a fully redesigned Navy Pier, wide, gentle ramps would replace stairs, elevators would be spacious and strategically placed, and seating areas would feature charging stations for power wheelchairs. Imagine:
- Adjustable counters at every vendor and booth
- Accessible water fountains and restrooms throughout the pier
- Specialized beach wheelchairs for lakefront access
- On-demand shuttles with wheelchair lifts circulating the pier
And performance spaces would have flexible seating so wheelchair users could sit seamlessly with friends and family rather than designated spots.
If designed by the disability community, Navy Pier could become a global model for accessibility, offering tactile wayfinding, sensory-friendly spaces, and adaptive technology like SoundShirts at every event. Most importantly, this inclusive vision would employ people with disabilities at all levels, from front-line staff to managers. This transformation would make Navy Pier a true celebration of diversity and accessibility, setting a new benchmark for public spaces worldwide.
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