Grant for new road paves way for The Woodlands to expand Bradford Woods campus

Rain showers forced Thursday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new road that will allow The Woodlands campus in Bradford Woods to expand to take place inside.

But the weather didn’t dampen the spirit of the event, which was attended by state and county officials who helped secure funding for the project.

“We are looking forward to the next chapter at The Woodlands,” said Samantha Ellwood, executive director of The Woodlands. “We have been successful in providing unique recreational programming. Going forward, we plan to build on our success to create a year-round space for participants to explore their interests, passions and personal growth.”

Founded in 1998, The Woodlands provides children and adults with disabilities a barrier-free environment to participate in programs and activities. The 52-acre campus has a nature trail; an accessible aquatics, wellness and fitness center; an adaptive par-3 golf course and a sports court.

The new road cuts through The Woodlands’ campus along Shenot Road connects the facility to property the nonprofit organization bought in 2014 to expand future operations.

The ribbon was cut during the ceremony by Aaron Tillotson, who has been attending programs at The Woodlands for a number of years. He was joined by his grandmother Carol Tillotson.

Local TV personality Andrew Stockey served as the master of ceremonies for the event.

State Sen. Lindsay Williams, D-38th District, said it is important to help projects that can help organizations such as The Woodlands do more.

“One of my favorite things to do as an elected official is to be able to support the amazing work that is already being done by members of the community,” she said. “The Woodlands is a great example of an organization that is meeting the needs of the community today while striving to address what they anticipate coming in the future.”

Mark Steidl, 26, of Highland Park, who has cerebral palsy and must use a wheelchair, has been going to The Woodlands since he was 8 years old and now helps develop programs for younger participants.

“I’m excited about the opportunity for The Woodlands to grow their programs even further, and we will do it together,” he said through the use of a computerized communications device.

“It has been wonderful to see the continued growth of what you’re doing here,” said

County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. “I get inspired every time I come here knowing the enthusiasm the staff has for serving and contributing to improve the lives of the residents and people who come here.”

State Rep. Rob Mercuri, R-28th District, said he was “proud” to support an organization that “allows people with disabilities to feel free and well accommodated.”

“I know a project like this and an organization like this takes community stakeholdership. It takes a team lift,” he said.

Ellwood said connecting the main campus to its other property literally builds a road to the future.

“As well look to the future, we’re committed to imagining the possibilities,” she said. “By developing this property, we expand our service opportunities and collaboration with the community to provide innovative programs for individuals with disabilities and chronic illness. This road will allow us to make our vision a reality.”