BRIDGES breaks ground on Universal Design House renovation

New City, NY BRIDGES, a nonprofit organization advocating for people with disabilities and promoting accessibility, officially broke ground for its latest initiative on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The initiative involves a full-scale home renovation at 4 Ann St., designed with Universal Design principles. This project is one of the first renovations of its kind in Rockland County and among the first in the Hudson Valley to fully embrace this inclusive approach.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by officials from Rockland County, the Town of Clarkstown, and the New York State government, as well as community partners, accessibility advocates, neighbors, and supporters of BRIDGES. The event marked the beginning of a transformative renovation aimed at setting a new standard for accessible living.

The 1,300 s/f home will be demolished and rebuilt utilizing Universal Design principles to ensure it is functional, comfortable, and inclusive for individuals of all abilities, whether they are aging in place, living with a disability, raising small children, or simply desire a more user-friendly environment.

Key features will include:

• Step-free entrances and wider doorways for easier mobility.

• Lever-style handles and integrated smart home technology.

• Adjustable-height kitchen counters and pull-down shelving.

• Barrier-free bathrooms with curbless showers.

• Non-slip flooring and enhanced lighting for safety.

“This project is a major step forward in creating housing solutions that truly work for everyone,” said Carlos Martinez, executive director of BRIDGES. “By integrating Universal Design, we are not just making a house accessible—we are making it a home where individuals of all abilities can thrive.”

In addition to serving as a private residence, the home will also function as an educational resource. BRIDGES plans to host tours, workshops, and community outreach programs on-site to encourage homeowners, builders, and policymakers to embrace Universal Design.

“More than just meeting ADA standards or addressing the needs of those aging in place, Universal Design focuses on creating spaces and environments that are inherently usable and enjoyable for all. It’s about designing a seamless and intuitive experience using the core principles applied to all aspects of the built environment,” Robert Bernstein, principal architect, BILD Architecture.

The Concept of ‘Visitability’

The project is being completed in partnership with architect Robert Bernstein of BILD Architecture, interior designer Joanna Wasilewska of M4 Interiors, and the Idea Center in Buffalo, NY, with an emphasis on “visitability”—ensuring homes are usable by guests and residents alike, regardless of mobility.

Renovations are expected to be completed by December 1, 2025.