The Commission played a key role in modifying City beaches – creating mobility and independence for the elderly and disabled communities. In June 2007, Human Rights Commissioner/Chair Patricia L. Gatling and NYC Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe, were in Brighton Beach showing off the newly installed accessible beach mats. The specially designed mats, known as ‘Mobi- Mats’, enabled many individuals over the summer months access to the sand and water - many for the first time in their lives.

The collaboration between the two agencies was an important element of the City’s disability access efforts in the parks and communities throughout the five boroughs. The event underscored Parks’ commitment to making all City parks accessible to everyone and complemented the Commission’s work in Brighton Beach and other communities, making residential buildings and stores accessible to their residents.

The access mats are another component in the Commission’s aggressive efforts to make residential buildings, the workplace, and public accommodations – such as offices, restaurants, stadiums, and the beaches – accessible to individuals with disabilities.