‘Accessibility is not just about compliance’
SCAC helps grantee remove barriers
Guest of the Arts Center of Kershaw County will soon benefit from renovations it its main building’s restrooms to meet ADA compliance standards.
The Bassett Building, constructed in 1983, serves as the hub for the Arts Center’s musical, theatrical, and dance performances as well as its visual art exhibitions. However, its original design presented significant challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Executive Director Dolly Patton shared with The Hub that the restrooms did not meet modern accessibility standards: stall entryways were too narrow; flooring sloped for drainage purposes was not flat enough, causing wheels and people to slip; there was insufficient stall space in transfer from a wheelchair; lavatories were too low; and faucets unreachable.
“These renovations mark an important step toward ensuring that everyone in our community can fully participate in the Arts Center’s vibrant programming,” Patton said. “Accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about creating opportunities for all individuals to experience the transformative power of the arts.”
The Arts Center is committed to removing additional barriers to foster inclusion. Additional projects of its accessibility initiative address other areas of the Bassett Building, including theatre seating, hearing assistance devices, and accessible entrances.
The center will be host of a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Jan. 24 at 10 a.m. in the Bassett Building (810 Lyttleton St.) to celebrate this significant milestone toward creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors.
A $50,000 Arts for All grant from the South Carolina Arts Commission helped the Arts Center address accessibility limitations. With additional grants from Kershaw County and the state of South Carolina, the newly renovated facilities now include:
- Wider doorways and stalls for easier wheelchair access.
- Properly placed assistance bars and automatic faucets for convenience.
- A newly added family restroom to better accommodate families, caregivers, and individuals with special needs.
Click these images to enlarge.
“The Arts for All SC grant was established to help arts organizations create more accessible spaces and programs for the disability community. It is so exciting to see organizations like the Arts Center of Kershaw County leading the way in this effort. Their dedication to removing barriers creates an intentionally welcoming environment, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with and enjoy the arts,” said Amanda Noyes, the arts and education accessibility director at the SCAC.
“SCAC’s mission is to promote equitable access to the arts, but we cannot have equitable access without first creating accessible arts spaces.”
Almost $478,000 Arts for All grants were distributed in FY24. Organizations who receive operating support from the SCAC are invited to apply for Arts for All grants that support projects like this one.
The Arts Center of Kershaw County is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to creating an environment that promotes artistic and cultural experiences and provides superior educational, instructional and entertainment opportunities that elevate and enrich the community. Visit the center’s website for more information.