Temple University has recently opened a new community space at Morgan Hall on Cecil Moore Avenue called TechOWL. This 2,227-square-foot space provides individuals with disabilities access to high-tech devices to assist with mobility, vision, voice, and even playing video games. The space is part of Temple’s Institute on Disabilities in the College of Education and Human Development, and also offers 3D printing technology to create assistive devices.

Funding for TechOWL was made possible by a $500,000 grant from the state Department of Education, supported by State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta and State Sen. Tina Tartaglione. Sen. Tartaglione, who has used a wheelchair since a boating accident in 2003, championed the grant to help improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Sally Gould-Taylor, executive director of the Institute of Disabilities, highlighted the organization’s longstanding work in advocating for disabilities in Pennsylvania.

The Institute hosted a grand opening for the TechOWL Community Space on April 18, which drew a full house. The space is open to the public and features a barrier-free entrance and accessible restrooms. Gould-Taylor expressed hope that the space would become a central hub for learning and community building for individuals with disabilities across the state. TechOWL represents a significant step towards greater accessibility and inclusivity in Pennsylvania.

As WHYY News seeks input on what topics and areas to cover from Philly and the Pa suburbs to South Jersey and Delaware