CELINA, OH (7-31-24) – The Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities, in conjunction with the West Central Ohio Network (WestCON), a council of government (COG), received funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant that was made available late 2023. WestCON utilized this money to purchase two new accessible restroom trailers with universal changing tables for use at local fairs, festivals, and events.

The companion care restroom trailers will be used by Mercer County, as well as nine other counties in the WestCON region at local fairs, festivals, and other events as needed. The trailers were custom made and manufactured by Montondo Trailer out of Buffalo, New York.

Shawn Thieman, Superintendent of Mercer DD

“These inclusive vehicles will give individuals, who need an adult changing table, the opportunity to go to events that they have not had the opportunity to attend in the past. It’s a win-win for both individuals and the fairs alike – spreading inclusion, while gaining a new audience of fair-goers,” he continued.

The accessible restroom trailer features a height-adjustable universal changing table with a security rail. It also has a ceiling lift system that can transfer an individual from the trailer entrance to the table. The trailer is ADA-compliant featuring a ramp, accessible toilet and sink and amiable spacing for companion care.

The trailer will make its debut in Mercer County at the Mercer County Fair. The trailer will be open daily from Thursday, August 8th to Wednesday, August 15th from

9:00am to 9:00pm for restroom/changing table use. The trailer will be located on the fairgrounds near Gate B, by the commercial building.

For more information about the trailer or to inquire about using the trailer for an upcoming festival or event, contact Shawn Thieman.