February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 50
OPERATIONS
Putting Accessibility First
Designing an ADA-accessible mini golf course in Pittsburg, Kansas
By Eric Schoolmaster
C
ity of Pittsburg, Kansas, set out to redesign and renovate an existing
miniature golf course to meet ADA standards. The result
is an engaging course that complies fully with ADA-accessibility
requirements without compromising playability. The national
standards are a requirement for new courses and apply as major renovations
occur. In coordination with City of Pittsburg, Kansas, we used a solid
design/construction package to achieve the needed results.
ADA-Compliance
Considerations
The ADA mandate covers essential
standards for accessible miniature
golf, including site topography, holeto-hole
access, and routing around
themed scenes and objects. Standards
for walkway materials, slopes,
dimensions, allowable slopes on
holes, and the construction of entry
and exit points also guided the design
process. These criteria shaped
every element, ensuring the Pittsburg
course provides smooth access and
mobility for all guests.
Upgrading an Older Course
Originally built in the 1970s or
1980s, the course didn't meet modern
ADA standards. Its steep inclines
and tight spaces required a
full redesign. In designing the new
course,
city
staff and its design
partner for the project aimed to
exceed minimal compliance, creating
a course that aligns with ADA
guidelines at every turn.
Typically, accessible courses feature
paver walkways for both function
and compliance, but at Pittsburg's
request, concrete walkways were installed
instead. This durable, smooth
surface enhances the updated design
while meeting ADA requirements.
Design Considerations
Strict ADA requirements were integrated
from the outset. Designers
limited inclines to a maximum
1:20 slope and cross slopes to 1:48,
ensuring
safe navigation while
preserving the course's enjoyment
factor. Spot
elevations
guided
these slope placements, facilitating
smooth transitions between holes.
A continuous 36-inch-wide path
runs throughout the course, providing
ample space for wheelchairs
and walkers. Where possible, the
design also includes a five-foot
turning radius at each hole, exceeding
ADA standards and allowing
more comfortable maneuverability.
Faux sand traps and rough turf serve
as obstacles along the natural-looking
ADA-compliant mini golf course in City
of Pittsburg, Kansas.
50 Parks & Recreation | FEBR U AR Y 2 0 2 5 | PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G
On-Site Challenges
Designing for accessibility presented
on-site challenges. Limited initial
data meant adjustments were
required as the project progressed.
The natural
three-foot
elevation
change across the course required
slope management to meet compliance
and maintain playability.
The city's design partner adjusted
topography levels and moved hole
locations as needed, accommodating
elevation changes while preserving
the course's engaging design.
In some areas, additional sidewalk
length was added, especially near
the 18th hole that included a cannon
obstacle. This adaptation allowed for
a gradual elevation drop, enhancing
both play and accessibility.
Thoughtful Details
Beyond Compliance
The
Pittsburg
course includes
thoughtful touches that improve
accessibility. Each hole's exit has
a subtle lip to retain the ball, and
rough turf before the lip facilitates
a smooth transition for players using
mobility aids - a small but
impactful enhancement that goes
beyond compliance.
The miniature golf course models
how thoughtful design can create inclusive
recreational spaces. Through
planning, onsite adaptability and
a commitment to accessibility, this
project demonstrates how inclusive
design can enhance both functionality
and enjoyment for all.
Eric Schoolmaster is Design Manager at
Adventure Golf & Sports (info@
agsgolfandsports.com).
PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF PITTSBURG, KANSAS
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of February 2025 – Parks & Recreation
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - Intro
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - Cover1
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - Cover2
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 1
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 2
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 3
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 4
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 5
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 6
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 7
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February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 50
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 51
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February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 53
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February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 55
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 56
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - Cover3
February 2025 – Parks & Recreation - Cover4
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