Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) this week unveiled a new Sensory Room to reduce the stress of travel for those with neurological or developmental disabilities as well as a separate Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Room.
The Sensory Room, unveiled to coincide with World Autism Awareness Day, provides a calming environment for those who may feel overwhelmed and overstimulated, or in need of respite from the multitude of sights and sounds at the airport.
The Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Room was developed through a partnership with local religious leaders representing Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and Jewish faiths who advised on signage, floor materials, seating, lighting and ambiance.
“We know there are times when travel can be challenging for people,” said Stephanie Bowman, commissioner for the Port of Seattle, which operates SEA. “We set an ambitious goal to be the most accessible airport in North America because it matters to us that SEA meets the needs of the people we serve. These rooms play an important role in helping us be the airport we want to be.”
