Sarasota unveils new all-terrain wheelchair for disabled individuals at Lido Beach

The city of Sarasota showed off a new, all-terrain wheelchair this week that will allow people with disabilities easier access to the sand on Lido Beach. The EcoRover is an electric, tracked chair the user controls with a joystick or by a companion with a remote control. During a press conference, the official who oversees city compliance with federal disability access requirements, Jake Brown, demonstrated how easily the chair moves across the sand.

“It’s an amazing mobility aid,” said Brown, "The EcoRover is like a little tank. It’s built tough to carry an individual through various terrain, including sand. So, people with disabilities who haven’t been able to get on the sand at Lido Beach can do so now with the EcoRover.”

Rosemary Krimbel, Citizens with Disabilities Advisory Board chairperson, explained that the board researched and approved the purchase of the $14,000 vehicle. “This is so exciting,” said Krimbel, "It’s gratifying we’re able to offer this.”

Funding for the project comes from fines levied when people are ticketed for parking in a handicapped parking space. For now, the city only has one EcoRover. It is free to use but must be reserved in advance.

Reserving the EcoRover

• The EcoRover can be reserved at no cost for up to four hours to enjoy the sun and sand.
• Hours of operation are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance.
• Those interested in reserving the EcoRover should email Jake.Brown@sarasotafl.gov or call 941-263-6476.
• Prior to using the EcoRover, an individual will be required to watch a brief safety tutorial video and sign a usage waiver.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota unveils new all-terrain wheelchair for disabled individuals at Lido Beach