Alpena Listens to Build Inclusive Spaces | Fort Wayne News

Fort Wayne News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 1, 2026 · 1m

Alpena, Michigan, is redefining what it means to build inclusive public spaces by listening directly to residents like Amy Stevens, who lives with a mobility challenge. Instead of guessing, the city surveyed 26 parks and assessed sidewalks and buildings for real-world usability — focusing on affordable, practical fixes that make a huge difference. From wheelchair-trapping mulch to trip hazards, their feedback-driven approach led to tangible upgrades like a ramped fountain at Culligan Plaza. By embedding accessibility into their regular budget and treating their assessment as a living…