Finger Lakes Today

New York State Senator Pam Helming's advocacy efforts have resulted in the installation of adult changing stations at Thruway rest stops, improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities and their families. The initiative was sparked by a chance encounter nearly three years ago when Sen. Helming met Joanie Mahoney, the chair of the Thruway Authority's board of directors, at a diner in central New York.

In an interview with The Citizen, Sen. Helming recounted how she approached Mahoney about the need for adult changing stations at Thruway rest stops, stating, "She thought it was a fantastic idea and said she would take it back to the board and discuss it with them." Sen. Helming's advocacy was further fueled by her personal connections to individuals with disabilities and feedback from constituents who shared their challenges while traveling with family members who have physical disabilities.

Sen. Helming's persistence and follow-up efforts, including sending letters to the Thruway Authority, eventually paid off as the Warners Service Area became the first rest stop to reopen with an adult changing station. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Mahoney commended Sen. Helming, stating, "Senator Helming's support was instrumental in making this a reality and I'd like to thank her for her tireless advocacy on behalf of those with disabilities and their families and caretakers."

The success of Sen. Helming's advocacy has paved the way for four other Thruway rest stops to include adult changing stations in their renovation plans. Sen. Helming expressed gratitude towards the families who raised awareness about the challenges they face while traveling and commended the Thruway Authority for listening to their calls for improved accessibility.

In response to the collaborative effort, Sen. Helming acknowledged, "It was a great team effort," emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving positive outcomes for individuals with disabilities and their families.