# Accessible Tactile Maps Switchyard Park in Bloomington is Now More Accommodating By Kalin Ned | Published 2025-06-22 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/switchyard-park References: [idsnews](https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/06/pr-switchyard-park-debuts-map-06042025)  The installation of Bloomington's first tactile map at Switchyard Park represents a meaningful advancement in municipal accessibility efforts. The venture demonstrates how thoughtful design can foster independence for visitors with visual impairments. The tactile map at Switchyard Park figures as a navigational aid with multiple sensory elements, including tactile surfaces, braille labeling, and high-contrast colors. These are intended to provide comprehensive orientation within the 65-acre park space. The tactile map's prominent placement near high-traffic areas ensures visibility while symbolizing the city's commitment to universal design principles that serve diverse community needs. The project forms part of a broader, well-funded initiative by [Bloomington Parks and Recreation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bloomington-transit) to enhance inclusivity across the city's public spaces. This move is evidenced by recent accessibility upgrades ranging from wheelchair-accessible shuttle services to [adaptive playground equipment](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grandfather-mountain) and infrastructure improvements. Image Credit: City of Bloomington ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.9/10 - Popularity: 20% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 43% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Inclusive Urban Navigation:** The development of tactile maps in public spaces illustrates a trend towards making urban environments more navigable for individuals with visual impairments. - **Multi-sensory Wayfinding:** Emerging wayfinding aids that incorporate tactile, visual, and auditory elements provide more comprehensive navigational assistance for people with diverse needs. - **Universal Design Commitment:** Public infrastructure projects that prioritize universal design principles are shifting urban planning towards more inclusive community experiences. ### Where This Applies - **Accessibility Solutions:** The creation and deployment of tactile maps are driving innovation within the accessibility solutions industry, fostering new approaches to inclusive design. - **Urban Planning and Design:** As cities invest in universal design, the urban planning and design industry is presented with opportunities to integrate accessibility features into public spaces. - **Assistive Technology:** Assistive technology is being redefined by the implementation of multi-sensory tools like tactile maps, which enhance the navigational capabilities of visually impaired users. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Inclusive Trail Maps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/accessible-trail-maps.md) - [Accessibility Mapping Projects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/accessibility-mapping-project.md) - [Community-Driven Accessibility Feedback Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/iaccess-program.md) - [Accessible Recreational Activity Maps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/recreational-activity-map.md) - [Frst-Of-Its-Kind Trail Accessibility Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trail-accessibility-program.md) - [Accessibility-Enhancing Public Art Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/isometric-studio.md) - [Inclusive Airport Navigation Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airport-navigations.md) - [Accessible Urban Rest Areas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urban-rest-areas.md) - [Accessibility-Focused Navigation Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atlas-apps.md)