$1.8 million to Improve Handicap Accessibility

Jun 27, 2013 | Chair Lifts NJ

Handicap AccessibilityAn amount of $1.8 Million will help people with disabilities to easily get around Butte and provide more reliable bus transportation for the community.

Five new Butte Silver Bow transit buses are coming in the area. The new rigs have a new style loading ramp for people with disabilities. Gary Keeler, Butte Silver Bow Transit Manager, said that the most important thing is that the accessibility for people with disability has been improved as it was time-consuming and arduous to load people with wheel chairs on their existing buses.

The new buses will be much easier and safer. The most significant change with the new buses is the handicap lift which folds out.

“They kneel and they have the ramp. It makes for easier loading. Most of the busses are going to the low floor ramp versus a lift,” says Keeler.

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury in the home, especially in bathrooms, stairways, and entry points. Slippery surfaces, limited balance, and poor leverage can turn everyday movements into serious safety risks. One of the most effective and affordable solutions for reducing these risks is the proper installation of grab bars.

Grab bars are a cornerstone of home accessibility and aging-in-place solutions, offering reliable support exactly where it’s needed most.

Why Grab Bars Are So Important for Home Safety

Many people assume grab bars are only for showers or hospitals, but the reality is they can significantly improve safety throughout the home. Properly placed grab bars help reduce strain, improve stability, and provide a secure handhold during transitions like sitting, standing, or stepping over thresholds.
Grab bars are especially beneficial in:

  • Bathrooms (showers, tubs, and near toilets)
  • Stairways and hallways
  • Entryways and garages
  • Bedrooms and other frequently used areas

According to safety experts, bathrooms are one of the highest-risk areas for falls, making grab bars a critical component of fall prevention and home modification strategies.

Grab Bars vs. Towel Racks: A Critical Difference
One of the most common—and dangerous—mistakes homeowners make is relying on towel racks or fixtures for support. These items are not designed to bear body weight and can easily pull out of the wall, leading to serious injury.

Professionally installed grab bars are:

  • Anchored securely into wall studs or reinforced walls
  • Designed to support significant weight
  • Installed at the correct height and angle for safe use

This is why professional assessment and installation are so important.

Customized Placement Makes All the Difference

Not all grab bars are created equal, and placement matters just as much as the product itself. The right location depends on factors like:

  • User height and reach
  • Balance and mobility needs
  • Bathroom layout and daily routines

That’s why our home accessibility company offers free home evaluations performed by qualified therapists. These professionals assess the home environment, identify fall risks, and recommend grab bar placement that enhances safety and usability—at no cost to you.

Stylish, Modern Options for Any Home

Today’s grab bars are far more discreet and stylish than many people expect. They are available in:

  • Multiple finishes to match bathroom fixtures
  • Straight, angled, and curved designs
  • Styles that blend seamlessly with home décor

This means safety upgrades don’t have to make a home look institutional.

A Proactive Step Toward Aging in Place

Installing grab bars is one of the simplest ways to support long-term home safety. Whether someone is recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or planning ahead, grab bars provide peace of mind for homeowners and families alike.

Combined with a professional home safety evaluation, grab bars can help reduce fall risk and create a more supportive living environment—without major renovations.

Schedule Your Free Home Safety Evaluation

Our team specializes in home accessibility solutions that help people stay safe and comfortable where they live. We proudly offer free home evaluations conducted by qualified therapists, ensuring every recommendation is tailored, practical, and effective.

If you’re considering grab bars or other home safety modifications, contact us today to schedule your no-cost evaluation and take the first step toward a safer home.