Huntington Beach offers accessibility training to local businesses

The certification, created by accessibility nonprofit KultureCity, provides accessibility training for staff who interact with guests. Huntington Beach said 1,538 employees across the city's restaurants, retail businesses and attractions -- in addition to members in public safety, including lifeguards and police officers -- took part in the education.

City representatives said the certification efforts benefit residents and families who live in the area as well as visitors. It expands on the city's existing accessibility efforts; through a partnership with accessible travel platform Wheel the World, nearly 30 city hotels and attractions have integrated features like step-free entrances, roll-in showers and accessible entrances.

"Creating truly inclusive communities requires education, preparation and action," said Uma Srivastava, executive director of KultureCity. "Huntington Beach is demonstrating leadership by bringing together its tourism community and public-sector partners to create a more sensory-inclusive experience for everyone who lives in or visits the destination."