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BRIDGES Breaks Ground on Rockland County’s First Universal Design Home: A Model for Inclusive, Accessible Living

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BRIDGES Breaks Ground on Rockland County’s First Universal Design Home in New City
Pioneering renovation project sets a new standard for inclusive, accessible living in the Hudson Valley

New City, NY — BRIDGES, a Rockland County-based nonprofit organization advocating for people with disabilities, officially broke ground Thursday on a groundbreaking home renovation project that promises to redefine accessible living in the region.

Located at 4 Ann Street in New City, the project is the first of its kind in Rockland County — and one of the first in the Hudson Valley — to fully embrace Universal Design principles, which promote environments that are usable by people of all ages and abilities.

At a well-attended ceremony, local and state officials joined BRIDGES staff, accessibility advocates, and community members to mark the start of a complete rebuild of the existing 1,300-square-foot home. Once finished, the home will serve as both a private residence and an educational model, demonstrating how inclusive design can benefit everyone — from older adults and individuals with disabilities to young families and everyday visitors.

“This project is a major step forward in creating housing solutions that truly work for everyone,” said Carlos Martinez, Executive Director of BRIDGES. “By integrating Universal Design, we are not just making a house accessible—we are making it a home where individuals of all abilities can thrive.”

Key Universal Design Features Will Include:

  • Step-free entrances and wide doorways for mobility

  • Lever-style handles and smart home technology

  • Adjustable-height counters and pull-down shelving

  • Barrier-free bathrooms with curbless showers

  • Non-slip flooring and enhanced lighting

The renovation, which will be completed by December 1, 2025, is a collaborative effort involving BILD Architecture, M4 Interiors, and the IDEA Center at the University at Buffalo. Architect Robert Bernstein, principal of BILD Architecture, emphasized the home’s broader purpose:

“More than just meeting ADA standards or addressing the needs of those aging in place, Universal Design focuses on creating spaces that are inherently usable and enjoyable for all.”

The project also highlights the concept of “visitability” — ensuring that homes are accessible not only to residents but to any visitors regardless of physical ability. Once complete, BRIDGES plans to host tours, community workshops, and builder trainings on-site.

Call for Community Support

As construction begins, BRIDGES is inviting community partners, donors, and volunteers to support the project through financial contributions, building materials, or time. Those interested in getting involved can visit www.bridgesrc.org or call 845-624-1366.


About BRIDGES
Founded in 1988, BRIDGES is a nonprofit Independent Living Center dedicated to promoting independence, inclusion, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Through advocacy, education, and direct services, BRIDGES empowers people to live full, self-directed lives throughout Rockland County and beyond.

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Rockland County Family Injured in Tragic Crash on Way to Florida

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On March 28, a Rockland County family of five—mother Yuliya, father Yuriy, and their three sons, Deny (15), Mark (12), and Dave (9)—set out for what was meant to be a joyful family vacation to Florida.

Tragically, their journey was cut short when a pickup truck crashed into the back of their vehicle.

Today, two of their young sons, Mark and Dave, are fighting for their lives in critical condition in the ICU at WakeMed Raleigh Campus in North Carolina.

While Yuliya and Yuriy did not suffer severe physical injuries, the emotional toll of this unimaginable tragedy is profound. No parent should ever have to endure this kind of pain and uncertainty.

The Hlovatsky family, along with their friends and loved ones, are asking for prayers and support during this incredibly difficult time. Right now, Mark and Dave’s lives hang in the balance.

A GoFundMe link to support the family is being shared on our Facebook page.

Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.

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Women’s History Month Spotlight: Katelyn Tuohy – Rockland County’s Record-Breaking Distance Runner

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In recent years, few athletes from Rockland County, New York have captured national attention the way Katelyn Tuohy has. From record-breaking high school performances to championship victories at the collegiate level, Tuohy has become one of the most accomplished distance runners of her generation.

Tuohy first rose to prominence while competing for North Rockland High School. As a teenager, she dominated cross country and track competitions across New York and the United States. Her performances regularly shattered course records and national marks, quickly turning her into a household name in high school running circles.

During her high school career, Tuohy earned multiple national honors and repeatedly claimed the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award for girls cross country and track. Her ability to maintain both speed and endurance allowed her to excel in events ranging from the mile to longer distance races. Coaches and analysts frequently described her as one of the most talented high school runners the country had ever seen.

After graduating from North Rockland, Tuohy continued her career at NC State Wolfpack, where she quickly proved that her success was far from over. Competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics, she became a key member of the university’s powerhouse distance program.

Her biggest breakthrough came when she captured the individual title at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, cementing her place among the elite runners in college sports. The victory not only highlighted her consistency and determination but also helped bring national recognition to the NC State program.

Despite competing on a national stage, Tuohy’s story remains closely tied to her roots in Rockland County. Many local runners view her as a role model who demonstrates what dedication, discipline, and perseverance can achieve. Young athletes throughout the region continue to look up to her as proof that world-class talent can come from their own community.

As Tuohy’s career continues to evolve, many expect her to pursue opportunities on the international stage and possibly compete in global championships or future Olympic events. Regardless of where her path leads next, her journey from Rockland County standout to national champion has already secured her place among the most inspiring athletes to come out of the region.

For runners across New York and beyond, Katelyn Tuohy’s success sends a powerful message: with talent, hard work, and determination, even the longest race can be won.

Photo courtesy Wikipedia

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