The Buffalo Bills announced this week that the new Highmark Stadium, which is currently under construction, will have seven autism sensory rooms, the most for any professional sports venue in the world, according to the team.
The sensory rooms will be accessible to all ticket holders and will be located on all levels and spaces of the stadium.
According to a press release, the Bills-branded rooms are designed to "provide a calming, supportive environment for guests who may need a personal and quiet environment, while still enjoying Buffalo's game-day experience."
"We're excited to continue to provide a sensory inclusive stadium experience for our fans at Highmark Stadium and are humbled to now have seven sensory rooms for fans to utilize," Bills senior director of guest experience Zach Rutkowski said. "Our Guest Experience team is committed to creating positive, lasting memories for our fans and our collaboration with KultureCity, Kaleida Health and the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism helps make that possible."
The Bills are working with KultureCity, a nonprofit that focuses on sensory accessibility and acceptance, to ensure the new stadium is accessible and inclusive for guests, fans and staff with sensory needs. One of the many things KultureCity does is provide support on sensory-inclusive training for Bills full-time and part-time staff, as well as guidance on sensory widgets that will be included in each room.
Kaleida Health, Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo, Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism and KultureCity are working to create a sensory inclusive environment, helping to outfit the seven sensory rooms.
"As the regional leader in health for kids and families, we are honored to have the opportunity to partner with the Buffalo Bills on sensory rooms to ensure an inclusive stadium experience for all," Stephen Turkovich, MD, president, Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo said.
Information on the sensory rooms will be available at all guest experience booths during events and game days.
