Stow inclusion commission to advise amphitheater architect on accessibility features

Stow City’s Commission on Inclusion agreed to provide design input to the amphitheater project team and to meet with the project architect before construction begins. Groundbreaking is scheduled for July 1 and the facility is expected to open in the summer of 2026.

The commission said accessibility considerations should be built into the amphitheater from the start rather than retrofitted later. Commissioners highlighted several specific items to raise with the architect: reducing slope to a 2% grade for easier access compared with a 5% example shown from Plain Township; adding more accessible seating options besides Adirondack chairs; and locating restrooms so that people using mobility devices do not need to travel back uphill from front-row seating.

Commission members also noted the benefit of including at least one universal changing table that can be raised or lowered, and suggested reviewing interior bathroom dimensions and circulation so caregivers can assist adults who need help. The meeting record shows members flagged fire pits, stage furnishing and seating choices as other features worth adjusting to improve universal access.

The commission plans to consolidate a short list of recommendations and expects the architect to schedule a follow-up or special meeting to review plans prior to final design. Commissioners suggested programming ideas — such as performances by local dance and music groups, inclusive youth performances and smaller-stage presentations — to ensure the venue accommodates a range of users and abilities.

The amphitheater’s project lead told the commission the design team intends to include several accessibility features in initial construction to avoid higher retrofit costs later. The commission asked members to send additional suggestions in writing ahead of the architect meeting.