As a way to make a connection between visitors and nature involving the senses, “The Sensory Trail” has been created at the Botanical Gardens in Santo Domingo.
The path was made especially for those with motor, sight and hearing disabilities so that these individuals can enjoy a rich and stimulating experience in nature in an ecological, simple, tangible and memorable way.
According to Karen Pannocchia, coordinator of the trail, it is the first project of its kind created in the country for those with disabilities. The path is 550 meters long and takes around 20 to 30 minutes to complete. She said that the path winds through a wooded area where there are 13 information signs, also in Braille, about the flora and fauna endemic to the country.
In addition a MP3 audio guide system is also available with sign language for those with hearing disabilities.
Finally, disabled access is now provided at the restrooms at the end of the trail.
US Ambassador James Brewster was there for the opening of the trail that was financed by the United States International Development Agency (USAID) under the “Empowerment in Sustainable Tourism” cooperation program with the Dominican Consortium for Tourist Competitiveness (CDCT).
The project also received support from the National Botanical Garden, the National Council for the Disabled (CONADIS), the Ministry of the Environment and the United States Forestry Service.
http://www.listindiario.com/la-republica/2014/4/22/319107/Inauguran-El-Sendero-de-los-Sentidos-para-personas-con-discapacidad-en