On this page you will find the latest press releases and statements from the Office of Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
8/8/2019 2:46:10 PM
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Walz celebrated the much-anticipated opening to the new garden ramps on the south side of the State Capitol building. The two new ADA compliant ramps provide full access to enjoy the popular gardens on the Minnesota capitol grounds.
“The completion of this project marks another step in our commitment to making sure the State Capitol is truly the people’s house,” said Governor Walz. “Everyone deserves the right to have their voice heard, and that means making sure the Capitol complex is accessible to all Minnesotans.”
The colorful landscape of flowers, shrubs and pathways was previously inaccessible to some members of the disability community and others with mobility issues. The new ramps bring the historic property to the next level of accessibility compliance and ensure all members of the public can fully enjoy this welcoming space.
Twin Cities ADA advocate Rick Cardenas spearheaded the project, and his dedication has resulted in this important improvement to the State Capitol grounds. Cardenas worked closely with community leaders, local disability advocates and organizations, along with former Governor Mark Dayton’s office. After taking office, Governor Walz worked to make sure this project was completed.
The ribbon cutting was sponsored in part by the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, Advocating Change Together (ACT), Charlotte Forsythe, and the Minnesota Council on Disability.