Audience Accessibility- A Study into PAC Infrastructure Renovation

Addressing the lack of accessible restrooms in the Western Washington University (WWU) Performing Arts Center (PAC), this project resulted in the university's commitment to renovate the current restrooms to increase accessibility. In an ever progressing world, renovating outdated infrastructure to achieve the most equitable solution is a necessity. This project addressed specifically the lack of handicap accessible and gender-neutral restrooms in the main lobby, manifesting in an effort to advocate for the renovation of the PAC to include these restrooms. Over the course of the project; the PAC, International Building Code, and WWU values were researched; many emails were sent; interviews were conducted; and forms, petitions, presentations, and graphics were created. Ultimately, the Capital Planning and Development Department committed to renovating an existing restroom into an ADA accessible, family-friendly, gender-neutral restroom in the PAC lobby. This paper details the steps taken, the outcome, and the various documents accumulated over the course of the project.