September 25th 2024 Ford International Airport Opens Sensory Room to Support Travelers with Sensory Sensitivities

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., September 25, 2024- The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its Sensory Room, located at the beginning of Concourse A. This new area is designed to offer support to travelers with sensory sensitivities.

The Sensory Room is intended to provide a therapeutic setting that helps individuals feel comfortable in their surroundings. The space is designed to minimize overstimulation and provide a calm and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages with cognitive and/or development disabilities.

"We are pleased to continue our commitment to enhancing the airport experience for all travelers," said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. "This room includes sensory aids that stimulate reactions, encourage communication, and reduce agitation and anxiety sometimes caused by air travel."

Developed in partnership with Disability Advocates of Kent County, the Sensory Room is intended to provide a calm and controlled setting that offers a sense of familiarity for travelers. The space is divided into four different zones, including:

• Transition Zone:Provides a comfortable adjustment from one sensory experience to another.
• Active Zone: Engages multiple senses through various activities.
• Respite Zone: Offers sensory separation and recalibration in a public setting.
• Airplane Simulation Zone:Prepares individuals for new sensory situations to decrease anxiety.

"We would like to thank Delta Air Lines and Aero BridgeWorks Inc. for their support of this project and for their donation to the Airplane Simulation Zone, which will help travelers practice the process of boarding a plane, walking on a jet bridge and finding their seat," said Richardson.

Additional features in the Sensory Room include an activity wall, campfire sitting area, soft surface play area and more.

The Sensory Room is now open to travelers and can be accessed through a call button next to the entrance door.

The Christman Company served as the general contractor with HKS, Inc. as the architect of record.

For more information about the amenities offered at the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org/amenities.

About the Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the second busiest airport in Michigan, serving business and leisure travelers with nonstop and connecting flights on seven airlines. The Ford International Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. For more information, visit www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram @FlyGRFord.

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