Accessibility at Temple Hillel B’nai Torah

Temple Hillel B’nai Torah is committed to welcoming people of all abilities and to being transparent about accessibility in our building and programs. Accessibility needs vary, and our building reflects both the care we have taken and the realities of an older structure.

The information below is offered so you can decide what will work best for you before you arrive. If you have questions or would like to talk through your needs in advance of a visit, we are always glad to connect.

Accessible Parking

Temple HBT has a large, level, newly paved parking lot with six designated accessible parking spaces, including a van-accessible space. The accessible spaces are located close to the main entrance.

Entrance and Ramp

A concrete ramp with railings on both sides leads from the parking area to the main floor entrance. The ramp is straight, without turns.

The entrance doors are automatic, providing hands-free access into the building.

Visitors using larger mobility devices or traveling with service animals are encouraged to contact the office in advance to discuss whether this entrance will meet their needs.

Sanctuary Access and Seating

The sanctuary is located on the main floor and is entered through wide double doors. Seating is fully flexible, allowing us to accommodate wheelchairs, mobility devices, service animals, and a range of seating needs.

Because seating is not fixed, we are able to make space for individuals with hearing or visual needs, those who prefer to sit closer to or farther from the bimah, and those who benefit from additional room or or proximity to the service. We are available if you would like assistance finding a comfortable setup.

Torah Reading and Participation

The bimah itself is not wheelchair accessible. During regular services, Torah is read from a Torah table located on the main floor, allowing participation without needing to go up onto the bimah.

Restrooms

First Floor

There are three gender-neutral restrooms on the first floor. Two are standard restrooms and are not wheelchair accessible. One restroom includes grab bars and is designated as the accessible restroom.

Access to the accessible restroom requires passing through a multipurpose room. The doorway to that room is approximately 29 inches wide, which may accommodate some wheelchairs but not all.

Lower Level

Restrooms on the lower level are older men’s and women’s restrooms and have not been retrofitted for wheelchair accessibility.

Lower Level and Social Hall

The social hall, with full kitchen, is located on the lower level of the building and is accessible via a stair chair. The stair chair is used regularly during events and is available when needed.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome at Temple HBT. It is not uncommon for multiple service animals to be present at the same time during services or events. These animals are working and provide essential support to their handlers.

Planning Ahead

Accessibility needs are personal and varied. If you have questions, concerns, or specific needs not addressed here, we encourage you to contact the office in advance so we can talk together about what would be most helpful. Benita Block, Director of Administration and Communications, is glad to help.

Information current as of February 17, 2026.