Grant will fund renovations to ensure ADA compliance and inclusivityCADIZ, Ky. (Jan. 13, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear and Department for Local Government (DLG) Commissioner Dennis Keene today announced a $340,227 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to improve handicapped accessibility at the Janice Mason Art Museum in Cadiz.
Currently, the museum is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The funding will bring the building up to code by eliminating architectural barriers at the entrance that inhibit accessibility.
“No Kentuckian should be kept out of public spaces,” said Gov. Beshear. “The approval of this project ensures inclusivity and access to the arts for everyone in the Cadiz area.”
The free of charge museum is a frequent attraction in western Kentucky for all ages and had over 3,200 visitors last year.
“The Janice Mason Art Museum strives to provide quality arts opportunities to Kentuckians. The approval of this grant will make access to those opportunities a reality for a significant portion of our community,” said Museum Director Paul Fourshee. “Because Cadiz is a tourist destination and retirement community, a large percentage of our guests, whether pushing strollers or wheel chairs, will find improved access to the museum helpful.”
DLG Commissioner Keene added. “The Janice Mason Art Museum and organizations like it, are important for our communities. Guaranteeing everyone has access to cultural enrichment opportunities, like this, should be a priority.”
Trigg County Judge Executive Hollis Alexander expressed gratitude for the grant award and updates to the museum.
“The Janice Mason Art Museum is a staple of downtown Cadiz,” said Judge Alexander. “We are so appreciative of this award and are thrilled to make art more accessible to our community members.”
Senator Stan Humphries said, “These CDBG funds are much appreciated. This grant funding provides the necessary means for the City of Cadiz to improve the Janice Mason Art Museum making the building accessible by all. I look forward to this revitalization and put my full support behind projects like these that improve the lives of all of our citizens.”
“The Janice Mason Art Museum is responsible for hosting and showcasing many art exhibits for the Cadiz community to enjoy,” Rep. Walker Thomas said. “I am pleased to learn that through this grant, the building will become more accessible to anyone looking to enjoy what the museum has to offer.”
Rep. Larry Elkins added, “Ensuring all public buildings are ADA accessible is critically important. I am proud to hear that funds have been allocated to make these necessary and vital changes.”
About the Community Development Block Grant ProgramThe CDBG program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services.
About the Department for Local GovernmentDLG is an arm of the Office of the Governor dedicated to supporting local officials and communities. To learn more about opportunities available through DLG, visit kydlgweb.ky.gov.
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