West Place Animal Sanctuary launches driving tours to improve accessibility

Tiverton nonprofit adds electric vehicle for visitors with mobility challenges but still needs funding to cover costs

August 8, 2025

Ryan Belmore

What's Up Newp

CRU by Club Car at West Place Animal Sanctuary (Photo provided by West Place Animal Sanctuary)

TIVERTON — West Place Animal Sanctuary has introduced electric vehicle tours to make its 8-acre property accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, though the nonprofit is still fundraising to cover the vehicle's cost.

The sanctuary announced Tuesday that it has added a CRU by Club Car, a quiet, eco-friendly five-passenger electric cart, to offer guided driving tours of the facility. The 60-minute tours allow visitors who cannot participate in walking tours to experience the sanctuary and meet rescued farm animals.

"This has been a long time coming," said Wendy Taylor, founder and executive director of West Place. "We have always wanted to offer visitation options to those who cannot participate in walking tours, and now we can finally welcome guests of all abilities."

The sanctuary says it frequently receives tour inquiries from people with disabilities or limited mobility. While the property is wheelchair accessible, touring the entire 8-acre grounds requires significant physical effort.

The open-air electric vehicle features flexible seating and 360-degree views, allowing the sanctuary to better accommodate senior citizens, special needs children and anyone with mobility issues, according to the organization. The vehicle can also be reserved by visitors who simply want to relax while touring the grounds.

West Place is offering special launch pricing of $295 for up to five people, compared to $24 per adult for walking group tours. The driving tours are available by appointment any day of the week starting at 9:30 a.m., with the sanctuary recommending visitors schedule at least one week in advance.

However, the sanctuary is still actively fundraising to cover the vehicle's cost. Taylor said several philanthropic commitments have not materialized since the organization put down the initial deposit on the 2023 model, which they purchased at a discount from a local dealer.

"We could really use a boost to make sure driving tours are a permanent offering," Taylor said.

Tours can be booked online at westplace.org/private-tours or by calling 401-228-6800. As part of its Fall Visitors Weekend on Sept. 6-7, West Place will offer special 4 p.m. driving tours both days.

Community members, businesses and accessibility advocates can donate toward the vehicle at westplace.org/CRU.

Founded in 2007, West Place Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that rescues and rehabilitates abused and neglected farm animals. The sanctuary is home to over 300 animals and is the oldest and largest sanctuary of its kind in Rhode Island. It also serves as a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility.