Access on the NSMV!

Purpose:

Increase accessibility aboard the new NSMV training ships. These are vital to US commerce and national security. Accessibility for disabled individuals is imperative.

The NSMV project was designed to update the five existing merchant marine academies training ships. In March 2018, The US federal budget included funding for said project. These vessels are necessary for the development of future generations of merchant mariners. They provide a necessary component of US commerce and national security. I believe these should be fully accessible to allow for disabled individuals.

Why is the NSMV not accessible? 

There are no fully accessible state rooms and heads (bathrooms). This is not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This bars most mobility impaired individuals from traveling aboard the NSMV for extended periods of time.

Why should it be accessible?

Approximately 22.5% of the US workforce is disabled in some capacity. A significant portion of this group is mobility impaired. To take full advantage of this population, accessibility must be improved. It is a valuable pool of bright candidates. Potential instructors, engineers, and staff can improve life on the ship. They bring valuable insight, expertise, and perspective.

How can we improve this?

Minimal changes would be needed. Combining two staterooms (and heads) into one accessible stateroom would only require removing one single wall. Shower and bathing facilities would be incorporated in this change as well. The vessels currently have a roll-on, roll-off (RO-RO) deck and an elevator to access other decks. This allows for access to the cafeteria, hospital, classrooms, and meeting spaces.