About the Cultural Access Network

The Cultural Access Network of New Jersey, a co-sponsored project of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance, was created in 1992 to assist all cultural arts organizations in making their programs and facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities. The Cultural Access Network is comprised of individuals with specific knowledge and expertise in areas relating to accessible programming and facilities.

Since its inception, the Cultural Access Network has been a resource for New Jersey’s arts community to use as they make structural and programmatic changes in order to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All of the Cultural Access Network’s programs and services are made possible by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/ Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

The National Endowment for the Arts, the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies and Coca-Cola have recognized the Cultural Access Network of New Jersey as a national role model program.

Technical Assistance Workshops
These workshops, offered throughout New Jersey, provide training and technical information to assist in the creation of a strong long-range ADA plan. Topics include architectural assessment, the development of programs and services that provide inclusion of people with disabilities, development of accessible marketing publications, staff and board sensitivity training, and overview of ADA law.
Self-Assessment Surveys
A user-friendly survey helps identify areas of your operation that are and are not accessible and what is readily achievable regarding access. The survey will also act as a guide as you develop your long-range ADA plan. We've made many Sample ADA Materials available in our Resources section.
Referral and Information Services
If you have specific questions with regards to sign-interpretation, architectural access, employment issues, etc. the Cultural Access Network will provide appropriate information or the resources to find it.
Review of ADA Long-Range Plans
Members of the Cultural Access Network will review ADA plans prior to their submission to the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Comments and suggestions will be made to applicants as to how they can improve the plan and what elements need clarification. (This service is available only to first time applicants to the NJSCA and does not guarantee the plan’s approval by an independent panel review process.)
Cultural Access News
This semi-annual publication informs the arts community about the latest advancements and accomplishments in arts accessibility in New Jersey and across the nation. Special features highlight valuable tools and programs that will assist in the implementation of your organization’s ADA plan. We invite you to peruse the CAN back issues for a wealth of accessibility information.

For more information on any of the services listed above, please contact the New Jersey Theatre Alliance at (973) 540-0515 or .

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The Cultural Access Network is a co-sponsored project of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.