A screenshot of the “Nichols Arboretum (The Arb)” page on the EaseSpace website. The page focuses on accessibility information for wheelchair users.
At the top, there is a navigation bar with options such as “Find a Spot,” “Share a Spot,” “EaseCommunity,” “Accessibility Settings,” “Help Our Story,” “Feedback,” and “Join Our Team!” A welcome message says, “Welcome back, [User Initials].”
On the left is an image of a lush green park with tall trees and pathways winding through a sunlit landscape. The scenic view highlights natural beauty with a mix of grassy areas, shrubs, and distant trails.
Main Content:
Title: “Nichols Arboretum (The Arb)”
Accessibility Rating: “Easeful Accessibility Rating for Wheelchair Users: 2.25” (out of 5)
Detailed Rating: “Easeful Independent Rating for Wheelchair Users: 4/5”
Cost: “Free of regular cost.”
Description: A note encourages users to “Learn about access for all disabled people or people with specific access needs here.”
A dropdown menu labeled “Wheelchair Users (Independent)” is shown with an open “Feedback Summary” section.
Feedback Summary (Expanded):
Entrances and Exits: 2/5
Entry and exit should always be possible from Washington Heights, but it’s sometimes blocked by vehicles. Entry and exit from Geddes Ave is very literally gatekept. It’s accessible when the gate is unlocked, which is difficult to be sure of unless you’re there in-person.
Restrooms: 0/5
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum website claims that wheelchair accessible restrooms are available at both sites, but this was simply not the case when we observed The Arb. The only restrooms available in the entire Arb were two portable toilets with elevated door frames, inside spaces that were too cramped for a wheelchair and no technology to help with lifts and transfers
Seating: 3/5
There are paved paths throughout The Arb to many of the same benches, scenic views and resting spots that non-wheelchair users enjoy. There are some notable exceptions, which mostly involve using stairs instead of a ramp or mild slope. The stairs may be aesthetically pleasing to some but are much less practical.
Pathways to Popular Features: 4/5
The Arb stands out from similar outdoor spots because most of the Arb’s popular features offer trails that are compatible with wheelchairs. There are some problematic choices worth noting, such as an uphill pathway that is wheelchair accessible and leads to a dead end but doesn’t have signs letting people know what to expect
Politics: 2/5
The Arb seems well-aware of wheelchair accessibility needs, mentioning accommodations that most outdoor spots do not offer, such as rent-able trail chairs. However, we did find much to support these claims when we actually visited. The Arb’s mention of these accommodations might raise some awareness but neglecting to actually offer them or make these offerings more well-known is problematic and misleading.
Overall Enjoyment: 4/5
Genuine grievances aside, there are very few outdoor spaces within walking distance of downtown Ann Arbor that are nearly as scenic or as accessible as The Arb. This is the place to be for nature lovers; just be sure to use Washington Heights entrance, go to the restroom before coming and don’t expect The Arb website to keep its promises.
