Yankee Stadium
Handi-Lift provided an innovative Artira Inclined Platform Lift for Yankee Stadium, ensuring wheelchair accessibility between the clubhouse, dugout, and playing field. The project was featured in Elevator World (December 2009) for its exceptional design and functionality.
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Overview
Handi-Lift, Inc. was honored to provide the accessibility solution for Yankee Stadium, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors, including wheelchair users. The project featured an innovative use of an Artira Inclined Platform Wheelchair Lift, offering seamless access between the clubhouse, dugout, and playing field. This solution was spotlighted in Elevator World (December 2009) for its unique design and functionality, exemplifying Handi-Lift’s commitment to Accessibility with Dignity.
Challenge
The project presented several challenges that demanded innovative solutions:
Preserving Sightlines: The lift had to avoid obstructing the spectators' view from the stands when not in use.
Compact and Efficient Design: The accessibility solution needed to fit within the tight confines of the stadium’s stairs while maintaining stair traffic flow.
Multi-Level Access: The lift required multiple stops to provide access between the clubhouse, dugout, and playing field.
High Expectations: Yankee Stadium, as a world-class venue, demanded flawless design and operation.
Design & Execution
- Inclined Platform Wheelchair Lift: The Artira Inclined Platform Lift was selected for its ability to:
Fold up when not in use, preserving stairway space and sightlines.
Operate quietly and smoothly to enhance the user experience.
Provide access to multiple levels with a single lift.
Precision Installation: The lift was carefully installed to seamlessly integrate with the stadium’s infrastructure, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic alignment.
Impactful Use Case: The lift enabled wheelchair users, including those attending the ALS tribute event in 2009, to participate in key moments on the playing field.
Results
Handi-Lift’s solution at Yankee Stadium delivered a transformative accessibility experience:
Enhanced Accessibility: Wheelchair users can now easily navigate between the clubhouse, dugout, and field, enjoying areas of the stadium previously inaccessible to them.
Preserved Aesthetic and Functionality: The compact, folding design ensured that the lift did not obstruct sightlines or disrupt stair traffic when not in use.
Meaningful Impact: The lift played a crucial role during the Yankees’ tribute to Lou Gehrig, enabling guests like Austin Goldsmith and Nick Nicholson to fully participate in the event.
Recognition: The project was featured in Elevator World, highlighting its innovative design and success in meeting the unique demands of a high-profile venue.
Handi-Lift is proud to have contributed to making Yankee Stadium more inclusive, ensuring that accessibility standards were not just met but exceeded, providing an unforgettable experience for all users.
Technical Specifications
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Lift Model
Garaventa Artira inclined platform lift, designed to accommodate challenging outdoor environments and ensure accessibility.
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Support System
Constructed from stainless steel to withstand exposure to the elements, with doubled-back tubes to protect the drive mechanism under the dugout roof.
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Travel Path
- The lift travels from the dugout tunnel to the dugout floor, with the platform hanging over the stairs.
- A ramp lowers from the platform to allow users to enter the dugout when needed.
- The lift continues up to the field elevation, where another access ramp unfolds for direct exit onto the playing field.
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Platform Safety Features
- A box step was installed to ensure the lift complies with code, keeping the leading edge of the platform no more than 24" above the floor or stairs during travel.
- A gate at the field level prevents falls when the lift is not present in the space.
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Operation and Supervision
The lift is operated under constant supervision in the controlled venue environment to ensure safety and proper access to the field.
Location
1, East 161st Street, Concourse, New York, 10451, Bronx County, New York, United States
