Town of Penetanguishene

2007/2008 Accessibility Plan

Executive Summary The purpose of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) is to improve opportunities for people with disabilities and to provide for their involvement in the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to enable their full participation in the life of the municipality in which they live. To this end, the ODA mandates that each municipality prepare an annual Accessibility Plan; to consult with persons with disabilities in the preparation of the Plan; and to make the plan available to the public.

This is the 2007-2008 update of the Accessibility Plan prepared by the Town of Penetanguishene with the assistance of the Accessibility Advisory Committee. This Annual Report describes the measures taken by the Town in the past year and the measures the Town will take in the current and coming year to identify, remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities who use municipal facilities and services, including staff and the community at large.

In the 2007 budget, the Town committed funds for the continued improvement of access to municipal facilities. Approved capital projects include the Townhall Expansion and exterior works which will improve access to the Community Policing Office. Budget funds were also set aside in the 2007 budget for service delivery enhancements such as the new Town website and expansion of the E-agenda system. Planned infrastructure upgrades in 2007 include a new sidewalk on Park Street, sidewalk improvements on Poyntz Street and repairs on Harriet Street. New pedestrian crossings with audible signals have been installed on Robert Street East at the Thompsons Road/Centennial Drive intersection and on Main Street in the vicinity of the TransCanada Trail. Funds have also been identified to begin the upgrade of public washrooms at the various recreation facilities. A feasibility study has been approved for the replacement of the building housing the public washrooms and change rooms at Penetanguishene Rotary Park in connection with the proposal for a water playground at this location. This new building would be required to meet new accessibility standards under the Ontario Building Code.

During 2007, the Committee carried forward the need to review the Town’s development standards for disabled parking, sidewalks/trails and playground equipment. The disabled parking layout for Provincial facilities was used for the new i spaces at the Arena and will be used in the rear and side parking lots at the Townhall. The availability of transportation services was addressed, in part, through the Town’s contribution in the North Simcoe Transportation Linking Communities (TLC) program. Discussions are pending with the Town of Midland on a possible future partnership for use of their accessible van service.

Finally, the Accessibility Advisory Committee (ACC) expanded its membership to include the Mayor and a representative from the Seniors Council with technical assistance from the Chief Building Official, as required. The Accessibility Advisory Committee is also being added to the Town’s Procedural By-law, including recommendations for an expanded mandate as deemed appropriate for:

 Implementation of the Standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) including customer service, transportation, communications, etc.  Recommendation of Standards for parking, trails, sidewalks, playgrounds and facilities

To assist with the development of the new standards and to provide consistency, the Town will be working with other accessibility committees in North Simcoe and the County of Simcoe.

Town of Penetanguishene 2007 Accessibility Advisory Committee Don Roszmann, Chair Henry Freitag Romeo Grozelle Kevin Drinkwine Mayor Anita Dubeau Councillor John O’Hara Anne Murphy, Seniors Council Representative

C.A.O. Eleanor J. Rath, Coordinator CBO Brian Gass, Staff Advisor

ii Town of Penetanguishene 2007-2008 Accessibility Plan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page No 1. Purpose 1

2. Objectives 1

3. Description of the Town of Penetanguishene 1

4. Town Council’s Commitment to Accessibility Planning 2

5. Prior Barrier Removal Initiatives 3

6. Barrier Removal accomplished under 2006/2007 Accessibility Plan 5

7. Barriers Remaining in Municipal Buildings and Facilities 7

8. Barriers in Municipal Infrastructure 16

9. Barriers in Municipal Service Delivery 17

10. Barriers to be addressed in fiscal years 2006-2007 18

11. Communication of Plan 19

12. Monitoring Process 19

iii Town of Penetanguishene

2007-2008 Accessibility Plan

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Accessibility Plan is to describe the measures the Town of Penetanguishene taken for the year 2007 and plan for the 2008 to identify, remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities who utilize the facilities and services of the Town.

2. Objectives This Plan:  Describes the process by which the Town of Penetanguishene will identify, remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities

 Reviews efforts to remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities

 Lists facilities, policies, programs, practices and services the Town will review in the coming year to identify barriers to people with disabilities

 Describes the measures the Town will take in the coming year to identify, remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities

 Describes how the Town will make this Accessibility Plan available to the Public

3. Description of the Town of Penetanguishene

The Town of Penetanguishene is located at the southern tip of Georgian Bay in northern Simcoe County in Central Ontario. It is bordered on the north by Georgian Bay, to the east and south by the Town of Midland, and to the west by the Township of Tiny.

The Town has a population of approximately 9,700 people and is a bilingual community. There are eight schools located within the Town including two secondary schools. Three Provincial facilities are located within the Town: the Penetanguishene Mental Health Centre, the Central North Correctional Facility and Discovery Harbour, a unit of Huronia Historical Parks. The Town is also home to the Georgian Manor Nursing Home operated by the County of Simcoe and Penetanguishene General Hospital, a partner in the North Simcoe Hospital Alliance.

To clearly indicate what the Town’s purpose is Council has adopted the following Mission Statement:

1 “The Town of Penetanguishene Council and its staff are committed to delivering the services that fall under its mandate to residents and businesses in a cost effective and creative manner, respecting the environment, values and heritage of our culturally diverse community, so that the Town may continue to grow in a managed fashion while preserving and enhancing those features that make Penetanguishene unique.”

The Town operates an Arena/Community Centre, a Town Dock marina/launching ramp, a full service campground, over 170 acres of parkland, three ball fields, several playgrounds and kilometres of trails. The Town’s Administration is housed in two buildings. The Administration & Treasury Offices are located in the main building together with the Council Chambers and Committee Room. The Annex building houses the Planning and Development Department, the By-law Enforcement function and the Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture. A rear addition to the main building also houses the Fire Department and the Ontario Provincial Police Community Policing Office for Penetanguishene.

The Public Works Department including the Roads and Water Divisions is housed in two buildings in the Town’s Industrial Park. The Sewer Division operates out of the Sewage Treatment Plant on Main Street. Local Boards funded by the Town of Penetanguishene operate the Penetanguishene Public Library and the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives.

The Town has several partnerships in the provision of services to the public. The Provincial Court and POA Court utilize the upper level of the Town Offices on a fee for service basis. Policing services are provided under contract by the Ontario Provincial Police. The Town has a partnership with the Ministry of Health for the operation of the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool/Gymnasium at the Mental Health Centre. The Town also has a partnership with the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board for the operation of the gymnasium and community room at the Canadian Martyrs School. In addition, the Town has an agreement with the Penetanguishene Curling Club for the operation of the Team Howard Community Centre/Curling Club.

4. Town Council’s Commitment to Accessibility Planning

The Council of the Town of Penetanguishene is committed to:

 the continual improvement of access to all municipally owned or operated facilities, premises and services for all those with disabilities, and

 the provision of quality services by the Town to all members of the community with disabilities

Council has directed the C.A.O. to work with the Accessibility Advisory Committee in the preparation of this Accessibility Plan that will enable the Town to identify and meet these commitments over time. It is Council’s intent 2 to continue to address the barriers identified in this Plan, subject to budget constraints and feasibility.

5. Prior Barrier Removal Initiatives

Over the last 15 years, Town and its Local Boards approved the following accessibility enhancements for the community:

Municipal Facilities:

Penetanguishene Arena:  installation of an elevator at the Penetanguishene Arena and handicapped washroom on upper level  installation of auto door openers at the reconstructed main entrance  construction of new barrier free washroom on main level (women’s only)  identified additional handicapped parking spaces

Penetanguishene/Canadian Martyrs Community Centre:  approval of the installation of wheel chair access and an elevator as part of the construction of the Simcoe Muskoka District Catholic School Board for the operation of the Canadian Martyrs School Community Centre

Penetanguishene Centennial Museum/Archives:  installation of a lift at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum/Archives  installation of auto door openers at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum/Archives  installation of barrier free washrooms adjacent to snack bar at Penetanguishene Centennial Museum  installed Accessibility signs where necessary at the entrance  identified handicapped parking space

Penetanguishene Curling Club:  installation of accessible washrooms on upper and lower level of Curling Club

Penetanguishene Public Library:  installation of a lift at the Penetanguishene Public Library  installation of barrier free main entrance at the Penetanguishene Public Library, including exterior and interior door openers and signage  installation of barrier free washrooms and signage at the Penetanguishene Public Library  installation of lift to lower level at the Penetanguishene Public Library  installed Accessibility signs where necessary at the entrance  identified handicapped parking spaces

Penetanguishene Public Works Offices:  identified handicapped parking spaces 3 Penetanguishene Public Parks & Town Dock  identified handicapped parking space at Robert Sullivan Parkette  identified handicapped parking spaces at Historic Port of Penetanguishene (Town Dock), Main Street parking lots, Town Dock, McGuire Park,

Penetanguishene Town Offices  identified handicapped parking spaces

Municipal Infrastructure:

Pedestrian Crossings:  installation of audible signals at the intersection of Robert and Main Streets and extension of service hours (6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)  installation of audible signals at the pedestrian activated traffic light on intersection of Robert Street East at Dunlop Street

Sidewalks:  new section of sidewalk on Lorne Avenue between Robert Street East and Burke Street  replacement of a section of sidewalk on Robert Street East at the intersection of Peel Street with a low rise curb and corrugation  installed curb cuts for sidewalks at intersections at the priority location of Main Street and Brock Street as well as at the intersections of Peel and Robert Streets.  constructed another length of sidewalk to meet requirements of the Town’s Official Plan on Peel Street from Burke Street to Sheridan Street as well as on Maria Street and Poyntz Street

Trail System:  paving of the Rotary Waterfront Park Trail

Municipal Service Delivery:

By-law Enforcement:  improved enforcement of handicapped parking spaces in the Town as well as ensuring that the spaces met current size guidelines and signage requirements (i.e. surface painting)

Council & Information Services:  relocation of Council, Working Committee of Council and Council General Committee meetings to a partially accessible location at the Penetanguishene Museum/Archives on a temporary basis until the Townhall expansion is complete  enhancements to the Town’s Web Site through the County cooperative  sensitivity training for Department Heads (Mental Health issues)

4 Library Collection:  three separate blocks of large print materials at the Library which are exchanged every three months for a total of approximately 625 large print materials. This practice enables the Library to offer a fresh collection of large print books on a regular rotation basis.  development of an extensive books on tape and now books on CD collection to meet the needs of the visually impaired Library patrons although this collection is extensively used by the sighted as well.  trained staff to provide public assistance with use of lifts

6. Barrier Removal Initiatives accomplished under 2006/2007 Accessibility Plan

The Town undertook the following initiatives in 2006/2007 to remove barriers:

Penetanguishene Arena:  completed the renovation and expansion of the Arena/Community Centre/ Sports Hall of Fame, including fully accessible main entrance and new main floor washroom (women’s only)

Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives:  enclosure being constructed around steam engine to take into account accessibility issues

Penetanguishene Community Policing Office  installation of auto door opener and barrier free door  reorganization of parking lot to provide disabled parking adjacent to building

Penetanguishene Fire Hall  replacement of raised mantle with concrete landing  installed signage and door bell as temporary measure

Penetanguishene Town Offices & Annex:  tendered and awarded contract for expansion of the Town Office making the entrances, public service counter, public washrooms and Council Chambers and meeting rooms barrier free

Municipal Infrastructure:

Pedestrian Crossings:  installation of audible signals at the pedestrian activated traffic light on intersection of Robert Street East at Centennial/Thompsons Road in the vicinity of CCL

5  installation of audible signals at the pedestrian activated traffic light on Main Street at intersection with Town Dock and Beck Boulevard in the vicinity of the TransCanada Trail (in progress)

Sidewalks:  sidewalk improvements on the east side of Beck Boulevard between Main and Wolfe Streets  sidewalk improvements on Poytnz Street  sidewalk improvements on Robert Street West (in progress)  sidewalk installation on Park Street

Municipal Service Delivery:

Council & Information Services:  relocation of Council, Working Committee of Council and Council General Committee meetings to a partially accessible location at the Penetanguishene Museum/Archives and Penetanguishene Memorial Arena on a temporary basis until the Townhall expansion is complete  expansion of Town committees using e-agenda system  integration of Town’s Web Site with e-agenda system (in progress)

Library Services:  Strategic Direction #3 for the Penetanguishene Library is to “Expand programs and services to targeted populations” which translates into “Enhancing the availability of information resources to targeted populations”. The Library Board has recognized the increase in the Town’s senior population and targeted the large print collection as one to be expanded in the Library collection development materials budget for 2006-2007.

 A Library patron donated the Open Book Software in 2006. This software was installed on the library’s computers to provide a full-featured reading machine. (i.e. the computer will read what’s on the screen to the patron; the text can be zoomed from 25-500% of the normal size text, etc.)

 In 2006, the Library also received a donation of the JAWS for Windows software which has a full range of screen reading and Screen Magnification Software for blind and visually impaired computer users.

 In June of 2006, the C.A.O. and Library staff attended a Deaf Access Simcoe County workshop for sensitivity training on dealing with the Deaf and deafened patrons. Opportunities will be identified to improve municipal service to the deaf and deafened.

6 7. Barriers Remaining in Municipal Buildings and Facilities

In August of 2004, staff conducted an informal audit of municipal buildings and premises to assess any barriers that may exist and any solutions to removing those barriers in order to comply with the current legislation under the ODA. Numerous barriers were identified in buildings such as the Municipal Administration Office, Penetanguishene Arena, Team Howard Community Centre and other locations.

In July of 2006, the C.A.O. and Fire Chief revisited the municipal facilities to update this listing and identify any additional barriers. This revised list was then circulated to Department Heads and the Accessibility Committee for their review and comment. The Chief Building Official upon request visited the identified sites to provide additional information on the Building Code requirements for accessibility upgrades.

All Department Heads were circulated the 2006/2007 Accessibility Plan in July of 2007 for the latest update. The following chart outlines the remaining barriers identified at that time as well as recommended actions.

Annex Building Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 14 Robert Street W Steps leading to both Vacate building when Townhall addition front and side entrances. has been constructed and relocate Front and Side Doors do offices to accessible location. not have automatic door openers. Customer service staff should receive sensitivity training for people with various needs. Doorways are too narrow Vacate building when Townhall addition to permit wheelchairs. has been constructed and relocate offices to accessible location. Customer service Include alternate arrangements for counter not accessible accessible customer service location in design for Townhall addition No barrier free Construct Townhall addition with washrooms on main or accessible public washrooms on main upper level and upper levels including Braille and handicapped signage

7 Arena Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 61 Maria Street Main Entrance (outside Automatic door openers installed as part and inside) of the Arena Enhancement project in 2006.

Questions raised about location of push button reviewed by Architect and CBO. Placement meets OBC requirements. Timing for door opening to be extended.

Braille signage to be installed. Bleachers not accessible Accessibility to bleachers to be addressed as part of replacement project in 2008. Possible installation of ramp to seating on north side of building as well as review of accessible seating areas. Washrooms on main Women’s washrooms replaced on main floor are not barrier free floor and made barrier free as part of the Arena Enhancement project in 2006.

Men’s washroom was deleted from final contract. Facility Manager to investigate means to modify existing washroom to remove barriers where possible.

Braille and handicapped signage to be installed. Elevator not accessible Access to elevator via main entrance from main entrance included in Arena Enhancement project in 2006. Concerns raised about door width to be addressed by removal of door to elevator area and adjustment of mag-lock required to meet OBC requirements for fire and life safety for main lobby.

Braille and handicapped signage to be installed.

Community Policing Office Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 12 Robert Street W Entrance not barrier free Install barrier free entrance including (width and raised mantle) ramp, new entrance and automatic door and requires automatic opener. Braille and handicapped door openers. signage to be installed.

8 Entrance leads into lane Reorganize parking lot to provide direct of traffic. access in conjunction with Townhall expansion. Customer service Review configuration of Community counter not accessible to Policing Office when Fire hall is vacated. person in wheelchair No barrier free Washrooms not intended for public use. washroom for public use Review configuration of Community Policing Office when Fire hall is vacated and determine whether barrier free public washroom is required.

Fire Hall Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 10 Robert Street W Entrance not barrier free Construct new Fire Station with (width and raised mantle) accessible front entrance. and requires automatic door openers. Raised mantel addressed in conjunction with Community Policing Office entrance Entrance leads into lane improvements. Installed door bell and of traffic. sign as temporary measure.

Washroom not barrier Washrooms not intended for public use. free Include barrier free washroom for public use in new Fire Hall design. Consider needs for staff.

Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 13 Burke Street Handicapped parking Line painting and signage completed in space needs to identified 2007 and signed to standard. Number of parking spaces required to be confirmed Font on display signage Consider increasing font size as displays are updated/replaced. Interior door width Note for future consideration between two display areas at front of building Door knob to wheelchair Change door handle to lever style. accessible washroom CBO to review configuration for OBC compliance.

9 Entrance width to Grand Note for future consideration Hall Washrooms on upper Place signage on upper level advising of level not barrier free location of handicapped washrooms and upgrade signage for main floor washroom.

CBO to check distance to washroom under OBC. Uneven floor on upper Consider marking floor to clearly identify level trip hazard areas Access to steam engine CBO reviewing plans for enclosure to display ensure OBC compliance for accessibility

Council Chambers & Townhall Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 10 Robert Street W Front Doors (exterior and Doorbell and signage installed as a interior) do not have temporary measure to alert staff of automatic door openers members of the public requiring assistance.

Construct Townhall Addition with accessible front entrance with door opener or sliding doors. Braille and handicapped signage to be installed.

Customer service staff should receive sensitivity training for people with various needs. Side Door does not have Construct Townhall Addition with automatic door opener accessible entrance to upper level with door opener and Braille signage.

Side door will no longer be utilized as a public entrance due to accessibility concerns and proximity to Firehall emergency exit. No barrier free Construct Townhall Addition with washrooms on main or accessible public washrooms on main upper level and upper levels including Braille and handicapped signage No elevator or lift to Construct Townhall Addition with second level elevator to upper level including Braille signage.

Provide barrier free rear entrance to upper level including Braille and handicapped signage.

10 Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention Council Chambers, Renovate Council Chambers and Committee Room and construct meeting rooms and court Court facilities not facilities as barrier free including dais. accessible. Dais platform not accessible Staff areas not Construct Townhall addition and accessible renovate existing areas to include doors, office aisles, workstations, meeting rooms and staff room which is barrier free for staff use. Customer service Construct Townhall addition which counter not accessible to includes accessible customer service person in wheelchair counter.

Penetanguishene Curling Club/Team Howard Community Centre Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 8 Owen Street Main entrance doors Determine whether installation of (exterior and interior) do automatic door openers and modification not have automatic door of mantle is feasible. If not, consider openers. installation of barrier free entrance to main level if and when building is Slightly raised mantle at expanded. main entrance. Locker rooms not Consider barrier free design as part of accessible any future renovations Handicapped parking Investigate relocation of handicapped spaces are not on level parking if and when barrier free entrance is provided. Grade of ramp leading to Unable to address given existing building rink level does not meet elevation and site grades. accessibility standard.

Historic Port of Penetanguishene (aka Town Dock) Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention Main Street T-dock boards uneven, Inspect and repair on regular basis as protruding nails (trip deemed required hazard) Public washrooms and Public washrooms not in compliance with showers not barrier free OBC in numerous ways as noted. with deficiencies noted: - raised mantel at To meet new standards, spaces would entrances require entire renovations. Consider - floors are a trip hazard replacement of building with new building - doors and corridors which includes barrier free public leading to washrooms washrooms and showers. 11 are too narrow - water closets not far enough from wall - stall doors too small - stalls too small - sinks not to spec in various ways Boat slips not accessible Consider installation of at least one barrier free access to boat slips Access to fishing area Consider establishment of designated fishing area on Town Dock or a gazebo over the water at McGibbon Point Harbour Master office not No public access to this office. accessible to the public (raised mantle, door Consider replacement of office in new width, etc.) barrier free building with barrier free customer service area. Tourism Office not Investigate temporary measure for sill barrier free (raised height and level door handle as door mantle, no opener, etc.) width is okay.

Consider replacement of Tourism Office in new building with barrier free entrance and customer service area.

Customer service staff should receive sensitivity training for people with various needs. Tourism Office To meet new standards, spaces would washrooms not in require entire renovations. Consider compliance with OBC in replacement of Tourism Office in a new number areas. building with barrier free washrooms.

Ojibwa Landing Campground Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 111 Robert Street Entrance to office is not Operation Closed in 2007 West barrier free (raised mantle) Landscape front of entrance to comply with OBC as part of Building Permit 2004-39. No final inspection requested upon completion of project. Works to be completed.

Door handle to be replaced with level style. Washrooms not barrier Operation Closed in 2007 free as per OBC deficiencies noted: To meet new standards, spaces would  corridors leading to require entire renovations. Include in future renovations of building and/or 12 washroom areas too provide barrier free alternative in narrow addition.  water closets not far enough from wall  shower stalls too small  sinks not to spec in various ways  no ramp

Parks Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention Bayfield Park Washrooms are not Block walls cracking in various locations. barrier free including the Town Engineer and CBO recommend following identified that structure should be investigated over deficiencies: the winder months to determine if this is  corridor just inside a movement or one time settlement entrance door too issue. Repairs to building to be tight designed accordingly.  water closet not far enough from wall Investigate option for retrofitting and  stall doors too small renovating public washrooms at this  stalls too small facility. Works may be triggered by  sinks not to restaurant at this location. standards in various ways  towel dispense too high No designated Establish and sign handicapped parking handicapped parking spaces. Consider with dedicated parking spots is required if restaurant established at this location.

Huronia Park No handicapped parking Establish and sign handicapped parking spots spaces Washrooms are not Investigate OBC requirements to make barrier free (raised washrooms barrier free and/or mantle, doors, etc.) investigate alternatives

Consider upgrades as part of park redevelopment. McGuire Park Washrooms are not Investigate OBC requirements to make barrier free including the washrooms barrier free and/or following identified investigate alternatives deficiencies:  door width  remaining to be determined upon inspection 13 Penetanguishene Access to and design of Construct access ramp and extend Rotary Park washrooms is not barrier asphalt path. free, including the following identified Reconstruct/renovate building to meet deficiencies: OBC standards. Feasibility study  floor boards are a trip authorized in October of 2007 for hazard and gaps may replacement in conjunction with splash trap front wheel of a pad. wheelchair or walker  doors and corridors leading into washroom areas too narrow  water closet not far enough from wall  water closet not high enough  stall doors too small  sink not to standards in various ways  no ramp Access to pavilion Establish a surfaced path from parking area to pavilion No handicapped parking Establish and sign appropriate number of at various parking lots handicapped parking spaces and access including lots by Curling points to trail. Club, Kitchikewana, Ojibwa and Skatepark. Robert Sullivan Path surface Consider surfacing path from parking Parkette space to gazebo. Possible use of cash in lieu from Jarlette Development to complete these works. Access to beach If public access to beach is intended, consider accessibility modifications

Penetanguishene Public Library Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 24 Simcoe Street Handicapped parking space By-law Officer to review may not meet standard for requirements. Paint and width and signage signage to be upgraded including possible hatched area on public walkway adjacent to parking space Door widths on lower level do Renovations in basement will not meet accessibility not likely address this issue requirements for access to due to space limitations. lower meeting room Meeting room space should not be advertised as fully accessible. 14 Lower level renovations not Basement slated for public complete. Lift leads to use in 2010. Renovations at unfinished area. that time would have to follow barrier free requirements of OBC and ODOA at that time. Review to take place in 2008/2009 as part of preplanning for renovations. Confirm distance to washrooms as one may be required on the lower level.

Public Works Yard Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 24 Centennial Exterior front door has raised No public access to this (Public Works Yard) mantle and does not have building. automatic door opener. Staff washroom is not barrier No public access to this free. building. Upper level is not No public access to this handicapped accessible building.

Public Works Offices Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention 22 Centennial Drive Ramp constructed without Determine requirements for building permit ad design barrier free entrance at this does not meet OBC location. standards in various ways. Deficiencies are noted as follows:  a level landing of 4’ 11” x 4’11” must be provided at top and bottom of the ramp  landing in front of exterior door must extend a minimum of 12” beyond the hinge jam  either an exterior walk with a maximum gradient of 1:20 shall be provided OR a ramp with a maximum gradient of 1:12 shall be provided, such a ramp will have to be provided with guards and handrails on both sides 15 meeting various OBC specs Front Doors (exterior and Determine requirements for interior) do not have barrier free entrance at this automatic door openers. location. (see above) Provided the building is greater than 300 square Braille and/or handicapped metres in building area signage to be installed. (footprint not gross) automatic door openers will be required. Customer Service Counter Alternatives to be considered height not accessible for customer service. Towel holder in men’s No public access to this washroom may be installed washroom. too high Propose relocation of towel holder. Emergency Operations No public access to this Centre not accessible facility Washroom in Water Division No public access. is not barrier free

8. Barriers in Municipal Infrastructure

Strategy for Removal or Location Barrier Prevention Pedestrian Crossing Crossing at Main Street did Investigate location for new not meet HTA requirements pedestrian activated crossing and deemed to be a hazard with lights and audible signals in conjunction with streetlight replacement project in 2007. Authorized to proceed in September of 2007. Crossing at Edward Street Under review and Georgian Manor redevelopment Traffic Signals Audible feature for Retrofit signals and ensure pedestrian crossing at that curb cuts at this location Edward and Main Streets. meet requirements Audible feature for Priority for 2008 pedestrian crossing at Robert Retrofit signals and ensure St. E. at Lorne that curb cuts at this location meet requirements Audible feature for Priority for 2008 pedestrian crossing at Retrofit signal and ensure Poyntz and Owen Streets that curb cuts at this location meet requirements Audible feature for Priority for 2008 pedestrian crossing at Retrofit signal and ensure

16 Poyntz and Main Streets that curb cuts at this location meet requirements Sidewalks Sidewalks missing in certain Construct sidewalks in locations in Town where designated locations. required under the policies of the Town’s Official Plan Ensure that all new developments include sidewalks Citizen complaint regarding Refer to sidewalk plan review absence of sidewalk on for consideration Fuller Avenue Citizen complaint regarding Refer establishment of a absence of sidewalk on east public sidewalk in this block side of Main Street from to Town’s ongoing planning Edward Street to Thompsons process Road including the section where the lands have been licensed by the Town for a private parking lot Citizen complaint regarding Refer establishment of a lack of sidewalk on west side public sidewalk in this block of Main Street south of the to Town’s ongoing planning Angel Gates process Citizen complaint regarding Robert St East sidewalk absence of sidewalk on extension to Dufferin referred portions of Robert St. E. to 2008 Capital Plan Concerns regarding condition Sidewalk rebuild part of of existing sidewalk on Church Street project Church Street scheduled for 2008/2009 Capital Plan Citizen complaint regarding Referred to Public Works for condition of sidewalk on 2007/2008 sidewalk Robert Street West maintenance Citizen complaint regarding Referred to Public Works for condition of sidewalk on Main maintenance and/or budget Street (including angle) consideration

It is also recommended that the Town review its engineering standards and related development policies in relation to:

 Parking standards (in process)  Sidewalk standards (pending)  Barrier free design for parkland, playground equipment and trails (pending)

Upon Council approval, the Town will communicate these standards to developers and the public at large to increase awareness of the Town’s accessibility standards, including handicapped parking locations/restrictions.

A request has been received from the Seniors Council in relation to the availability of handicapped parking spaces in the vicinity of local churches. While this request is

17 outside the jurisdiction of the Committee, the Town will as the opportunity arises encourage local facilities serving the public to establish handicapped parking and barrier free facilities.

9. Barriers in Municipal Service Delivery

The following action items have been identified for 2007/2008:

 Accessibility Awareness Training for municipal staff and officials has not been completed and is being carried forward into this Plan.

 The Accessibility Advisory Committee will monitor the implementation of the proposed Customer Service and Transportation regulations under the ODOA as deemed applicable. All Department Heads will be made aware of the new standards as these are developed and training will be provided for Customer Service staff as part of the implementation plan.

 The Accessibility Advisory Committee will gather information on the various transportation services offered to residents in the Penetanguishene and surrounding area including the North Simcoe Transportation Linking Communities initiative, Midland Transit Accessible Transportation service, Mental Health Centre transportation service, Red Cross, Georgian Manor, Jarlette retirement facilities, etc. The AAC will make recommendations for possible options/partnerships for the Town to consider in the 2008-2009 plan.

 The Town will continue to participate in the Simcoe County Access Network to identify opportunities and ideas to improve Town facilities, infrastructure and services.

10. Barriers Recommended to be Addressed in fiscal years 2007/2008

The Town intends to address the following identified Barriers in the fiscal years 2007/2008 subject to the Town’s financial capabilities:

Municipal Facilities:  complete outstanding items at Arena  complete Townhall addition and renovation of existing Town Offices  renovate and/or replace public washrooms at Rotary Park in conjunction with roof repairs or water play structure (splash pad) if funds permit  continue to prioritize and identify accessibility upgrades at other municipal facilities as part of 5 year capital planning process

Municipal Infrastructure:  upgrade existing pedestrian activated crossings on Poyntz Street and Robert Street East include audible signals. Consider upgrade at Poyntz Street and Main Street, if funds permit  install new sidewalks at various locations

18  review of Engineering & Development/Design Standards for handicapped parking, sidewalks, parkland, playground equipment and trails  research municipal by-laws on use of personal mobility devices (motorized wheelchairs and medical scooters) on municipal sidewalks and road allowances

Municipal Services:  improve Town Website, including greater accessibility to the agendas and minutes for Council and Committees  provide sensitivity training to members of Council and/or key municipal staff  increase public awareness of the activities of the Town’s Accessibility Advisory Committee through publication of agendas and minutes as well as local participation in programs and projects offered in conjunction with the Simcoe County Access Network (SCAN)  implement OBC requirements and encourage local businesses/ institutions to incorporate accessibility upgrades as part of any development/redevelopment projects  continue to support the North Simcoe Transportation Linking Communities (TLC) program  continue to investigate possible transportation services and options with Town of Midland and other local partners  evaluate impact of ODOA regulations on Town facilities and services

11. Communication of Plan

The Accessibility Plan for the Town of Penetanguishene will annually be presented to Council for approval. The approved plan will be made available on the Town website and at the Town Office. A copy of the Accessibility Plan will also be provided as a reference material for in-house public viewing at the Penetanguishene Public Library.

Media releases may be issued upon the completion of projects to make the public aware of accessibility enhancements.

12. Monitoring Process

The C.A.O. in consultation with the Accessibility Advisory Committee and Department Heads will monitor the implementation of this Plan over the coming year on a quarterly basis. The C.A.O. in consultation with the Committee will monitor the items on this plan and identify additional barriers to accessibility in Town facilities or Town services as part of future updates to this plan. The Town newsletter or other public notices may include a request for the submission of accessibility related issues by the general public for the Committee’s consideration.

An update of this Plan will be presented to Council on an annual basis outlining the accomplishments of the previous year and identifying goals and objectives for the current and coming year.