Florence is Latest Oregon Coast Town to Add Mobi-Mats, Hearing Loops, More Accessibility

Published 04/29/25 at 7:25 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Florence, Oregon) – Oregon coast towns all over continue their move towards inclusive accessibility for all, with Florence jumping in even deeper into the pool as new means to enjoy the area are introduced.

The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce said it has made substantial progress in enhancing accessibility for visitors with mobility and hearing challenges. Collaborating with organizations such as Wheel the World, David’s Chair, and implementing features like Mobi-Mats and Hearing Loops, officials say it is setting a benchmark for inclusive tourism. With nearly one in five Oregon visitors identifying as having accessibility needs, Florence is increasing efforts to ensure all guests can experience the area comfortably.

Efforts to improve beach access have led to the installation of Mobi-Mats at Heceta Beach Park, adjacent to Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center. These sturdy, non-slip mats create a stable pathway across the sand, enabling individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to reach the shoreline seamlessly. This initiative aligns with the Oregon Coast Visitors Association's dedication to improving "travelability" across coastal towns.

Additionally, Florence hosts a David’s Chair facility at Driftwood Shores, where visitors can access free electric all-terrain track chairs. These specialized chairs allow users to traverse sandy beaches and rugged trails, offering them the opportunity to enjoy Oregon Coast's stunning landscapes. Reservations can be made at DavidsChair.org.

In 2023, the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce received a $30,500 Travel Oregon grant to collaborate with Wheel the World, an international platform championing accessible travel. The grant facilitates accessibility assessments for local tourism businesses, specialized training, and the inclusion of accessible experiences on WheeltheWorld.com. This initiative connects travelers facing mobility challenges with accommodating activities and lodging options.

“As part of the $8.56 million Highway 101 corridor refresh (ReVision Florence), the City of Florence has upgraded infrastructure to include ADA-compliant curb ramps and well-marked crosswalks with user-triggered signals,” the Chamber said. “These enhancements ensure safer and more convenient navigation for all pedestrians, reflecting the city's dedication to accessibility and inclusiveness.”

Hearing Loops are now available to visitors of the central Oregon coast town. These devices – which improve audio clarity in crowded spaces - are now installed at the Florence Visitors Center and Art Gallery, Driftwood Shores Hotel and Resort, City Lights Cinemas, and the Florence Events Center. Additional venues are expected to adopt this technology soon. These devices utilize a magnetic field to transmit sound to cochlear implants or hearing aids equipped with a T-coil setting, minimizing background noise and enhancing conversational clarity.

Florence continues to lead by example, prioritizing accessibility and inclusiveness across its tourism and infrastructure developments.

For more information on accessible travel options and planning your visit, please contact the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce at info@FlorenceChamber.com, 541-997-3128, or FlorenceFun.com.

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