ACCESSIBILITY PLAN
TOWN OF BRACEBRIDGE
1000 TAYLOR COURT BRACEBRIDGE ON P1L 1R6
Phone (705) 645-5264 Fax (705) 645-4209
E-mail [email protected] Website www.town.bracebridge.on.ca
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MUNICIPAL HIGHLIGHTS...... 4 TIME PERIOD - January 1 to December 31, 2008...... 6 TERMS OF REFERENCE...... 6 MISSION STATEMENT ...... 6 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 6 BREAKING BARRIERS TOGETHER...... 7 ONTARIO REGULATION 429/07...... 8 MUNICIPAL OWNED BUILDINGS AUDIT ...... 11 ACCESSIBILTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS...... 12 HISTORY OF INITIATIVES...... 13 BARRIERS IDENTIFIED ...... 14 TOWN OFFICE...... 20 LIBRARY ...... 22 FIREHALL ...... 23 WOODCHESTER VILLA ...... 23 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ...... 24 ARENA and AUDITORIUM...... 25 SPORTSPLEX, POOL & PARK...... 27 KELVIN GROVE PARK ...... 29 BRACEBRIDGE BAY PARK...... 31 ANNIE WILLIAMS MEMORIAL PARK...... 33 MEMORIAL PARK...... 34 KERR PARK & KIRBYS BEACH PARK ...... 34 TRAILS ...... 35 PEAKE BALL FIELDS ...... 36 PARKING BY-LAW...... 37 WEBSITE ...... 37 LOCAL NEWSPAPER ...... 37 BARRIERS PREVIOUSLY ADDRESSED...... 37 BARRIERS TO BE ADDRESSED IN 2008 ...... 42 THE AUGUST 8th EVENT ...... 42 REVIEW AND MONITORING OF THE PROCESS...... 52
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BRACEBRIDGE The Heart of Muskoka
Figure 1: David Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario & Major Alex Moseanu
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MUNICIPAL HIGHLIGHTS
Population: 15,682 Permanent (2006 Census) 7,065 Seasonal (Est. Dist of Muskoka 2nd Home Study)
The Settlers discovered Bracebridge in the early 1860’s and the Town of Bracebridge was incorporated as a Village in 1875. Other Municipalities, which make up the District of Muskoka, include the Towns of Gravenhurst and Huntsville and the Townships of Muskoka Lakes, Lake of Bays and Georgian Bay.
Bracebridge is centrally situated in the District of Muskoka with the District Headquarters located at 70 Pine Street in the Town. Pine Street is also the location of the Regional Assessment Office. The Court House and the Land Registry Office are located on Dominion Street just across the street from the Bracebridge Fire Hall.
The Town Hall and Municipal Offices, which includes the Public Works Department located at 1000 Taylor Court, offers accessible service to the residents of Bracebridge.
A wide variety of recreation, leisure activities and enjoyment of extraordinary peace and beauty is provided in the scenic landscape, which is accessible to residents and visitors to the Town of Bracebridge
The new Sportplex, is complete and is operating in conjunction with Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes Secondary School and Rene Caisse Theatre complex at the Clearbrook Subdivision Project .
The Bracebridge Sportsplex has the capacity to offer new and updated programs to the community. With natural lighting streaming in from the entire wall of glass, families can come together for art exhibits or trade shows in the new 5,300 sq. ft. community multi-purpose room complete with kitchen, bar and access to an outdoor patio. The room is accessible including the portable stage, which comes complete with a brightly coloured ramp for disability access.
Accessibility Plan 2008 4 The new Sportsplex also offers:
12,000 sq. ft. Aquatic Centre, complete with leisure pool, therapeutic pool and eight-lane competitive lap pool that will facilitate the hosting of swim meets and tournaments. 10,000 sq. ft. gymnastics space complete with second-floor viewing gallery.
For runners and walkers, a second-story, three-lane, rubberized track, with views of the surrounding Muskoka landscape and of the gymnastics centre and pool.
A 2,000 sq. ft. aerobics studio complete with sprung wood floor base and high output wireless stereo system and adjustable lighting for a variety of programs, including tai chi and yoga.
A 3,200 sq. ft. strength and stretching studio, complete with weight training equipment and free weights.
The facility will be serviced by an accessible café/concession located in the central spine of the facility. Guests may sit, relax and enjoy a healthy treat after a long workout.
Various other facilities under the Culture and Recreation Department include the Memorial Arena with Ice surface and seating for 1400 and along with a 150 person capacity Auditorium. The Town parks which provide ball diamonds, playground equipment, a chalet, tennis courts, public boat launching, swimming, picnic grounds and access to walking trails, cross country ski trails, snowmobile trails and canoe routes also fall under the Culture and Recreation umbrella.
South Muskoka Memorial Hospital, renovated and expanded, is located in Bracebridge and has a fully equipped Emergency Department and Muskoka Ambulance Service, which provides efficient and highly trained response to medical emergencies.
The Pines Long Term Care Facility, a 160 bed licensed residence for seniors, is located in Bracebridge.
Bracebridge is home to Santa Claus at Santa’s Village and Sportsland. Every summer, visitors enjoy this popular theme park set among the tall shady pines on the Muskoka River.
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Time Period - January 1 to December 31, 2008 ______
TERMS OF REFERENCE
To assist Council in advising, reviewing and making comment and recommendations on Federal and Provincial legislation and Municipal By- Laws of the Town of Bracebridge in the interest of people with disabilities. ______
MISSION STATEMENT
The Town of Bracebridge Accessibility Advisory Committee is dedicated to promoting equal opportunity, independence and access for all persons to participate in all aspects of community life. ______
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The Goals of the Advisory Committee are to encourage and facilitate accessibility on behalf of all members of our community:
1. promoting public awareness 2. encouraging co-operation among all services and interest groups to ensure a better community for all persons 3. identifying and documenting relevant issues and concern 4. The qualities of a FIVE STAR COMMUNITY mean improving access to:
housing transportation education recreation employment
5. improving communication among all levels of government and services agencies and to make recommendations regarding policy and legislation 6. recognizing that the needs of all persons are constantly changing
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BREAKING BARRIERS TOGETHER
Landmark Legislation took effect in 2005 with the passing of the Bill 118, The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
This Legislation will make Ontario a leader in accessibility. It is based on a vision of an accessible Ontario to be achieved in stages of five years or less over the next 20 years.
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The Act calls for an Accessibility Standards Advisory Committee, mainly comprised of people with disabilities to advise the Minister of Community and Social Services regarding progress made by standards development committees, public information programs and other related matters.
The purpose of the new Act is help achieve an accessible society where all people have the opportunity to learn, work, play and otherwise participate to their fullest potential in the Province of Ontario.
There will be a transition period during which government and part of the broader public sector will continue to have planning and other obligations under the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 until they are repealed.
The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) mandates that each Municipality with a population of 10,000 prepare an annual Accessibility Plan.
ONTARIO REGULATION 429/07
Ontario Regulation 429/07 has been made and filed on July 27, 2007 providing ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE, under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
This Regulation establishes accessibility standards for customer service and it applies to every designated public sector organization and to every other person or organization that provides goods or services to members of the public or other third parties and that has at least one employee in Ontario. This regulation came into force on January 1, 2008.
The accessibility standards for customer service apply to the designated public sector organization on and after January 1, 1010 and to other providers of goods and services on and after January 1, 2012.
All Public Sector Organizations will be required to establish policies, practices and procedures consistent with designated principles
Every provider of goods or services shall ensure that persons who deal with members of the public on behalf of the provider are required to be trained in these policies, practices and procedures.
Bracebridge Accessibility Advisory Committee Staff have attended workshops to facilitate education and training for the Municipality.
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This is the Sixth Accessibility Plan (2008) prepared by the Accessibility Advisory Committee of the Town of Bracebridge. The Report is an update of the previous year’s Plans and a current audit of the Town facilities. It describes the measures the Town has taken in the past and the measures the Town will look at during the current year’s Budget to identify, remove and prevent barriers to those who use the facilities and services of the Town of Bracebridge.
The Committee previously identified a number of barriers to people with disabilities. The most significant finding was that there is little or no transportation for people with disabilities to access the many facilities and services available to residents in the Town.
Under the AODA, ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORTATION have been reviewed by the public for feedback. These guidelines will be in place soon.
An initiative of the present Council, under Deputy Mayor Steve Clement, is to conduct a study and ascertain the needs of prospective users of a public transit service. A survey was done and a public meeting was held to gain input from the Town residents. The Town invited proposals for the Provision of Transit Consulting Services for a feasibility study, including preparation of operations plans, capital works program and operating cost estimates for the implementation of a Municipally-owned Public Transit Service for the Town of Bracebridge.
The Study is complete and recently a recommendation for consideration and approval has been received from Phase II of the Transit System Study, which will recognize the key requirements to meet the proposed standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
A Transit System for the Town of Bracebridge is a major step forward is removing barriers. Providing the means to get to accessible facilities was recognized by the Accessibility Advisory Committee from inception as the most important service required to provide equal opportunity, independence and access for all persons to participate in all aspects of community life.
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Audit of Municipal owned Buildings
In the year 2003, Development Services staff completed an initial survey of the municipally owned buildings and assessment of barriers that may exist. The Accessibility Advisory Committee has made comment and suggested solutions to remove any barriers in order to comply with current legislation and will continue to monitor and update improvements and successes as goals are achieved.
Culture and Recreation staff has provided a detailed overview of the features relating to Accessibility at the new Sportsplex.
During September 2007, representatives of the AAC, Tom Hookings, Building Official and Dorothy-Anne Leavens, AAC Committee Secretary- Treasurer visited many of the town sites to assess the progress.
An alternative route to access the Bird Mill Mews Chamber of Commerce Building has provided for barrier free access to this Information Service for the residents and the many visitors to the Town of Bracebridge. In 2008 the washrooms are scheduled to be updated for improvement, including accessibility.
Several Parks and playground areas, which had not previously been included in this Report have been audited for barrier free accessibility. One is the picturesque Kirby’s Beach on Lake Muskoka. Kerr Park is another recreation area, which we have previously not assessed in this Report, but is now included with some recommendations for barrier free access upgrades.
Other Town parks need new washroom facilities, which are constructed for barrier free access. Signage is also a prime requisite in parks and buildings for direction to areas, equipment and paths, etc. which are accessible.
Historical Buildings present a challenge. However, it may be possible to add accessible features that co-ordinate with the present architectural structure and do not detract from the historic value. Older buildings tend to have smaller doorways which present a barrier to easy access without major re-construction.
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ACCESSIBILTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Bob Jones Co-Chairman Community Development Representative
Edith Nichols Co-Chairman Councillor, Town of Bracebridge
Patti Thompson Councillor, Town of Bracebridge
Tom Hookings Chief Building Official, Town of Bracebridge
Lisa Shearer Muskoka Parry Sound Community Mental Health Representative
Robert Fudge Community Representative
David Morrison Community Living Representative
Nicole Smith The Friends Representative
Marg Young Community Representative
Dorothy-Anne Leavens AAC Secretary-Treasurer Assistant to the Director Development Services Department
Kim Horrigan Director Development Services Department
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
Paula Crockford Community Representative
Cecilia Castillo Community Representative
Accessibility Plan 2008 12 HISTORY OF INITIATIVES TO IDENTIFY, REMOVE & PREVENT BARRIERS
Methods used to Identify Barriers
Methodology Description Status
Sites Surveyed Identify barriers at: Inventory of Town Property by staff Municipal Office, and modifications for persons Site visit to Public Works with disabilities, which have locations by staff Department been addressed and/or and Committee Fire Hall modified in 2008 and prior Members Library years. Contact staff and Bird Mill Mews, Dept Heads to Chamber of help identify Commerce barriers Woodchester Reviewed with Villa & Gallery AAC Committee Arena for input and Sportsplex Pool assistance Kerr Park Kelvin Grove Park Bracebridge Bay Park Annie Williams Memorial Park J D Lang Activity Park Memorial Park Kirby’s Beach Park Peake Fields at Verena Acres Trails Manitoba Street Disabled Parking
Accessibility Plan 2008 13 Barriers Identified
Figure 2: Picnic tables at Annie Williams Park
Figure 3: Washrooms at Annie Williams Park
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Figure 4: Steep Access to Washrooms at Annie Williams Park
Figure 5: Pavilion at Annie Williams Park
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Figure 6: Playground at Annie Williams Park
Figure 7: Memorial Park Bandshell
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Figure 8: Chapel Gallery
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Figure 9: Bird House
Figure 10: Rene Caisse Museum Entrance
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Figure 11: Kelvin Grove Boat Launch
Figure 12: Kelvin Grove Playground
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The general consensus for the identified barriers listed below is for Council to review, discuss and determine which barriers should be addressed each year keeping in mind budget restraints and feasibility.
Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection
TOWN OFFICE Architectural . Admin Dept . Dev Services . Building Dept . Public Works . Council Chambers
1. Public access Redesign the 2008 Recommend front ramp at front front entrance entrance ramp be door too steep ramp redesigned for easier accessibility
2. Automatic Relocate 2008 Recommend entry door entry too far automatic entry button at front door be away for easy button at front relocated access door
3. Front entrance Adjust the tension 2008 Recommend the door closing too in front door tension in the door quickly closing or replace closing be adjusted.
4. Audio system Consultant review 2007 Audio System for for the Council Chambers approval of Chambers expense in 2008 Budget.
5. Washrooms Make totally 2008 Recommend accessible retrofit of washrooms
6. Door Knobs Replace Replace knobs with levers
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Figure 13: Bracebridge Municipal Office
Accessibility Plan 2008 21 Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection LIBRARY Architectural
1. elevator not Historical status Automatic door accessible for for 100 year old entry button is large chairs building installed
2. Staff washroom Public 2007 Recommend needs Washrooms not the changes be enhancement for accessible made to the Staff barrier free access washroom to including: accommodate a) lower light public barrier free switch use b) relocate side 2007 Recommend grab bar that a Dixie cup dispenser be c) install another installed for drinking grab bar at bldg water code location d) install lock on the door e) replace sink taps with lever type f)remove partition to allow proper access
3. narrow hallway needs to be wider
4. fountain not accessible Crews completely 2007 Recommended 5. Snow removal clear and remove annual follow up for not adequate for snow and ice safe access snow and ice removal
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection FIREHALL Architectural
Front entrance Construct sloped 2004 Completed has too high a ramp at entrance to rise building
Washrooms 2007 Inspection of washrooms for Note: accessibility Bldg is primarily used by able Firemen
WOODCHESTER Architectural The Bird House is a VILLA Historical Site.
1. Construction Recommend 2007 Recommend of ramps to Construct ramp or the construction of make Gallery, cement 8 ½” rise to ramps to each area Bird House and Gallery to accommodate Rene Caisse Repair doorway at public barrier free museum Rene Caisse use of this accessible. museum Historic Site Construct a wood ramp to right of the Bird House entrance
2. Hard surface 2007 Recommend of the pathways the re-surfacing of for wheel chair, the path to a hard walker and type surface scooter mobility
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection CHAMBER OF Architectural COMMERCE
Access may be Make minor repairs 2007 Recommend from the Town necessary to the repairs to parking lot area walkway, install a provide barrier free to the walkway lever door handle use of this Site, under the railway and which provides a bridge Partnership with the wide range of area BIA for Barrier free information to the access Public.
1. 2” rise on Fill rise on pathway pathway
2. entrance door 2007 Recommend requires an an automatic door automatic door opener be installed button
3. washrooms Make minor changes 2007 Recommend accessible with in washrooms slope one mirror in changes: each of the men’s and women’s a) slope mirror washrooms b) remove 2007 Recommend cabinets in remove cabinets in front of men’s front of men’s washroom washrooms
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Barrier Strategy for Status Removal/Protection ARENA and Architectural AUDITORIUM 2002 Elevator installed 2006 Automatic door opening button installed
2006 Curb cuts done 1. Lack of curb Place strategic cuts and ramps relocated cuts at parking lot and sloping of curb and in front of in front of arena to Bldg. access Bldg from parking lot across the street
2. Foyer Mens & Foyer Mens & 2008 Recommend Womens Womens for Budget in 2009 washrooms are washrooms should total refurbishment not accessible: be renovated of the Front Foyer including widening Mens & Womens .doors are too of entrance door to Washrooms narrow washrooms .stall will not accommodate wheelchair .toilet too far from the wall .sinks do not have cuts .no touch control taps
Dressing Rooms
NOTE: Auditorium washrooms are accessible
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Figure 14: Arena
Accessibility Plan 2008 26 Barrier Type of Barrier Strategy for Status Removal/Protection SPORTSPLEX Architectural POOL & PARK
Fully accessible under the Ontario Building Code regulations
1. Ronald Budget allocation 2008 McDonald House balance of New Charities funding for Playground be donation toward construction of accessible construction of wheelchair an accessible accessible playground playground
Research partnerships for accessible playground
2. Access to Gym Swipe card not readily suggested to available provide better and speedier access
3. Rise from Fire 2008 Route pavement Rise cemented to entrance and sloped in walkway honour of LG’s visit
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Figure 15: Bracebridge Sportsplex
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection KELVIN Architectural GROVE PARK (cont’d)
5. diving platform Provide a detour around 2007 Recommend blocks the the diving platform the modifiying walkway walkway to accommodate the diving platform
2007 Recommend provide a hard surface across the Shaw St Boat ramp for continuous
travel along the board walk from the Park to Riverside Inn area
2007 Recommend 6. picnic tables not Extend the cement extend the cement accessible underpad to make one under one picnic wheelchair accessible table which is in picnic table close proximity to the paved path
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Figure 16: Kelvin Grove Walkway
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection BRACEBRIDGE Architectural BAY PARK
1. Wheelchair 2004 Ramp on wharf access on constructed. paved surface required to get to park
2. paved Paved portion to go 2007 Recommend for surface into the water for Budget 2008 to required to get access – will require construct paved into water research from Dept of access to the water (Parry Sound Fisheries & Oceans Model) and verification of currents in river at this location
3. picnic tables Lengthen the 2007 Recommend the not accessible underpad of one cement underpad of picnic table for one picnic table be wheelchair access lengthened for wheelchair access.
2008 Cement underpad for one picnic table completed
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Figure 17: Bracebridge Bay Park Ramp
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection ANNIE WILLIAMS Architectural MEMORIAL PARK 2007 Recommend (PARTNER LIONS & cooperation with ROTARY CLUB) Partners to:
1. Some able Remove any old Provide some playground playground equipment playground equipment has and replace with equipment that is been replaced by modern, safe accessible the Kinsmen modules, including several accessible pieces for children with disabilities
2. Washrooms Major renovations or Replace not accessible replacement needed Washrooms with and in bad repair for the Men’s and new accessible - need to be Women’s Washroom replaced Bldg Provide gradual hard surface access to Washroom Bldg.
3. Access to Ramp for Pavilion 2007 Recommend pavilion requires access for Budge 2008 a ramp for Ramp to access access Pavilion
4. Hard surface Access to eating Provide hard for access to areas needed surface for BBQ and walkways and Cement pad BBQ and picnic under picnic tables area near tables and BBQ Pavilion
Accessibility Plan 2008 33 Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection MEMORIAL PARK Architectural
1. No access to Historial Site Band Shell (Lift would be Access to Band required for Shell may not be accessibility) required.
2. Not enough cuts Curb cuts 2004 Access into the on south and west required at Park provided with of Park for barrier several points on streetscape free access Rene Caisse Lane enhancements Kimberley Ave.
3. Broken and Broken cement to 2005 Cement repairs damaged cement be repaired and made on ramp sloped
KERR PARK Architectural PARTNER 2007 Recommend for TransCanada Pipe Budget 2008 to Lines Research partnership
1. Washrooms not Refurbishment of cost sharing for accessible washrooms complete renovation required including of washrooms. widening 28” doors 2. Playground not accessible
3. Hardtop surface required in BBQ and picnic table area 2007 Recommend 4. Chalet door not for Budget 2008 to accessible Increase width of rear entrance door
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection KIRBY’S BEACH Architectural PARK
1. Path to Grade and install 2007 Recommend Washrooms not hardtop surface to for Budget 2008 accessible access both to install hardtop washrooms surface path to washrooms
2. Washroom are Install required grab 2008 Recommend accessible but bars in washrooms provide grab bars require grab bars in washrooms installed to Code
3. Playground not accessible
TRAILS Architectural not fully Develop more 2006 Request accessible accessible trails to has been made to make the Town of pave a trail or Bracebridge more portion with attractive, accessible hardtop in order and a haven for all to be wheelchair
visitors accessible
Possible route for 2007 Trails paved section behind Committee Macaulay School research ongoing with possible route behind Macaulay School
Resource Centre New pavilion planned 2008 request that Trail for 2008 the new Bldg be accessible
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection PEAKE FIELDS AT Architectural VERENA ACRES (Planning Stage)
1. long walk to ball diamonds from parking area
2. an engineered paved surface bridge across the waterway (for vehicular and foot traffic)
3. paved parking lot with disabled parking closest to the area of the diamonds
4. hard surface for all pathways
5. designated accessible spots behind screens for viewing games
6. provide area of accessible bleachers
7. all buildings to be accessible
8. accessible picnic tables on cement pads
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Barrier Type of Strategy for Status Barrier Removal/Protection PARKING Policies BY-LAW & Procedures Out of date Update to include By-Law No. Fine information minimum fine of $300 2003-015 for unauthorized use of disabled parking space 2003
WEBSITE Informational
1. To provide Incorporate on 2003 Completed access to AAC Bracebridge Website Minutes, info with link Information etc to facilitate access updates added regularly
2. Notice to 2007 Public that all Recommend welcome to Notice that attend Public Welcome Meetings at AAC Meetings
LOCAL Informational NEWSPAPER Provide regular AAC 2003 Initiated information in Town on-going block of local 2007 Notice newspaper Meetings AAC open to public
BARRIERS PREVIOUSLY ADDRESSED
The Parking By-Law has been amended in 2003 to include the new fee schedule with minimum fine of $300.00 for use of a disabled parking space without a valid permit. The AAC will continue to encourage private businesses to provide parking places for persons with disabilities, with the stand up type signs, clearly visible in winter when snow covers the asphalt.
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Through review of Development Services Applications and Site Plans, staff ensures that parking meets or exceeds requirements for Accessibility.
In 2005 Council has approved in principal and The Accessibility Advisory Committee has followed-up with research seeking statistical information to assist in forming a Partnership for Transportation Services in Bracebridge and area with another Town in the District of Muskoka and/or private sector partner.
In addition, the Town of Bracebridge AAC representatives on the District of Muskoka Accessibility Advisory Committee had recommended that an area Transportation system research a system for the District of Muskoka.
Co-Chairman Bob Jones is pleased to provide the information that Phase 2 of the Transportation Study for the Town of Bracebridge is complete and recommendations for implementation have been made.
The Link to the Town of Bracebridge website provides current information about accessibility and provides a direct quick link to the Town Development Services Office for public comments and concerns.
Ongoing public Education, with current information as it becomes available, has been inserted in the local newspaper. Regular updating of information is provided on the Town of Bracebridge website.
The project of compiling a brochure – the guide to accessibility in the Town of Bracebridge and the District of Muskoka has been postponed until a future time.
Proposal for replacing and providing suitable access to the washrooms, which are located in Annie Williams Park be wheelchair accessible. It is recommended that the Public washrooms at Kelvin Grove Park be replaced with new accessible public washrooms.
Recommendation made to include at least one piece of accessible playground equipment at Kelvin Grove Park.
Accessibility Plan 2008 38 Accessibility at the new Ball Park is very important to the Accessibility Advisory Committee and we look forward to working with Culture and Recreation as this Project moves from Planning to Reality.
A local Business Club, accepted the AAC invitation requesting time at their Meeting to provide education and information on the new Accessibility Legislation and the challenges facing people with disabilities. Bill Glennie, Past AAC Chairman and Robert Fudge, AAC Committee member with his dog Omaha made a very successful presentation to the Rotary Club.
Parking for the disabled on Manitoba Street exceeds the number required and appears to be adequate for the Town. Municipal Parking Lots all have disabled parking spaces.
In the private sector, we initiated a review of the accessibility of retail establishments, local service providers and eating places in Bracebridge, with a view to encourage the business sector to participate in the effort to remove barriers in the Town. We commenced with our inspection of local eating-places washrooms.
The owners of the eating establishments in the Town of Bracebridge have been very co-operative in making their washrooms accessible. The Committee will follow-up with these service providers for continued improvements to accessibility.
Being open for business isn’t always enough for people with disabilities. For many, being accessible is just as important.
In 2006, along with the Town’s Public Works Engineer, Ron Walton and Mayor, Scott Northmore, the Town of Bracebridge Accessibility Advisory Committee members took to Manitoba Street in wheelchairs to test the accessibility of the Town’s main street.
The trip was an eye-opener to those who did not regularly use a wheelchair for mobility. Although aesthetically pleasing to the eye, the cobblestone sections of the sidewalk were difficult to manoeuvre. Areas where the sidewalks merge with streets need to be smoother. Curbs and the driveway angles provided difficulty and the slope of the sidewalk for drainage purposes made the possibility of losing control and rolling into the street (and traffic) a distinct hazard. The exercise provided an avenue to raise awareness of accessibility issues and reinforced the need for the Accessibility Advisory Committee to have input into future public projects.
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Figure: 18 Getting in Line
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The Committee has reviewed the Plans for Nipissing University with suggestions for improved access being made to directly to Nipissing University and their Architectural firm.
We applaud the efforts of the Transit Committee in their ongoing pursuit of providing a Transportation Services in Bracebridge.
In co-operation with the B.I.A. and with assistance from David Morrison and his group from Community Living, ramps have been built for use when accessing the sidewalk area from the street during special Events when the downtown portion of Manitoba Street is closed to vehicular traffic and the merchants display their merchandise on the sidewalks. With the co- operation of the various merchants on Manitoba Street, in future, we anticipate having a portable ramp system set up to assist in access to the stores.
For the recent visit of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, David Onley, the Community Living and AAC representative David Morrison was called upon once again to construct a ramp which was used for access to the stage for His Honour and the other Guest speakers.
Figure 19: The Lieutenant Governor access to stage via ramp
Accessibility Plan 2008 41 On July 5th, 2007, a Meeting was held with Council, Department Heads and invited guest, Norm Miller, MPP. Informative Reports were prepared and presented by AAC Members Todd Lang and Robert Fudge. Mr. Miller was very interested in learning the role and responsibilities of the Accessibility Committee and offered his services as liaison between the Town and Queens Park.
The Committee provided information regarding the many challenges in the process of making the Town of Bracebridge more accessible. Mayor Coates applauded the work of the Committee and advised that Council was 100% behind their efforts to remove barriers to accessibility.
BARRIERS TO BE ADDRESSED IN 2008
Proper Signage is key to assist in removing barriers. It is recommended that all the areas of the Municipality be reviewed by Department’s staff to make sure that notices and directional signage is in place.
Resources are being developed to deliver training on the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service to all staff in the Municipality.
Department Managers are encouraged to view the listing of Barriers as identified in this Report when preparing their Budgets for the year 2009. From the charts, the AAC Committee has highlighted the following projects for priority consideration:
* New Construction SPORTSPLEX PLAYGROUND & PEAKE BALL FIELDS * Park Washrooms Investigate installing temporary accessible porta- pottys until finances permit washroom replacement at Kelvin Grove Park and Annie Williams Park * Parks Kelvin Grove Park - boardwalk change accommodate movement around diving platform and continue walk way to meet up with trail past the boat ramp Kirby’s Beach Park - to provide hard top path access to Washrooms Annie Williams Park - accessible picnic Pavillion * Trails Resource Centre Trail - accessible picnic Pavillion * Woodchester Villa Ramp for access Chapel Gallery
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THE AUGUST 8TH EVENT – AAC AND ROTARY
In the spring of 2008, the Accessibility Advisory Committee were discussing ways in which we could promote Accessibility with the removal of barriers and affect changes through community partnerships that would result in equal access for all persons in the Town of Bracebridge. There were many suggestions all of which would take more time and manpower than what was available with our small group.
An idea took root when an invitation was received from the County of Simcoe to participate in an “Accessibility Day” at the Simcoe County Museum. It gained momentum when we partnered with the Town of Bracebridge Rotary Club in a joint Event to promote Accessibility and Polio Plus Awareness. Distinguished guests were invited to speak, including His Honour David Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, accompanied by Mrs. Ruth Ann Onley, Tony Clement, M.P., Norm Miller, M.P.P., Graeme Murray, World Champion Sledge Hockey Player and Angela LeMaitre, Rotarian for Polio Plus. Mayor Don Coates welcomed everyone to the Sportsplex. And, we were asked by our Town Crier, Bruce Kruger, to “open the doors of our minds”.
The Legion Band donated their time and talents to pipe in the Guests and play the salute. The Accessibility Advisory Committee is very grateful for the Legion Band participation, as they piped and drummed into being a lively highlight of the Event.
Various Displays were set up at the back of the Hall for education/information, including a covered scooter, which was able to be driven into the Sportsplex Hall via the accessible entrance doors.
Although the weather was damp outdoors, it did not dampen the spirit of the participants in the Event and we all enjoyed a very successful promotional Event.
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Figure 20: Event August 8, 2008
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Figure 21: Event August 8, 2008 “Arrival of Their Honours at the Sportsplex”
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Figure 22: Event August 8, 2008 “Piping in of Their Honours”
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Figure 23: Event August 8, 2008
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Figure 24: Event August 8, 2008
Ontario’s Lieutenant-Governor, veteran broadcaster David Onley, whose legs were paralysed by polio when he was a child, uses a scooter for mobility. He is a feisty advocate for the disabled, who hopes that businesses and individuals will be motivated to action by opening their doors to this Lieutenant-Governor with a disability but nonetheless with boundless capacity as long as the physical structures enable him to go everywhere he wants to go.
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Figure 25: Event August 8, 2008 - Graeme Murray, World Champion Sledge hockey Player
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Figure 26: Tony Clement, MP
Figure 27: Norm Miller, MPP
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Figure 28: Scott Northmore & Councillor Steve Clement - Transportation
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REVIEW AND MONITORING OF THE PROCESS
Various barriers have been identified on the chart. It is a particular heavy burden on the 2008 and 2009 Budget due to the structural changes recommended. With consideration of the priorities in each Department, some projects may be reviewed for the 2010 Budget. However, in recognizing that these barriers exist, a annual on-going review may provide the solutions required to provide barrier free access in the Town of Bracebridge.
Council is committed to following through with the Accessibility Plan, which is updated annually. The Accessibility Committee and interested public will monitor the barriers identified and the direction the Town takes to remove all barriers under the Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
COMMUNICATION OF THE PLAN
The Plan will be presented to Council and made available for anyone who wishes a copy from the Development Services Department, Town of Bracebridge on October 25th, 2008. A copy will be available at the Public Library.
The Plan will also be posted on the Bracebridge website.
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SUMMARY
People with disabilities represent a significant and growing part of our population. According to latest report from Statistics Canada, approximately 3.6 million Canadians have disabilities, representing 12.4% of Canada’s population. Approximately 1.5 million people in Ontario have disabilities, representing 13.5 % of Ontario’s population. National statistics indicate that 40.5 % of people aged 65 + have a disability. It is estimated that 20% of the population will have some form of disability by 2020.
Accessibility Plan 2008 52 Table 1: Population with and without disabilities
Accessibility Plan 2008 53
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According to the Report from the Ministry of Community and Social Services, people with disabilities have an estimated spending power of about $25 billion a year across Canada.
Bill 118, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 stresses the importance of Standards. Standards will set out the measures, policies, practices and other steps needed to remove and prevent barriers for people with disabilities. They will be mandatory and will include time periods for implementing accessibility requirements in stages of five years or less. The goal of the Minister is to achieve accessibility for all Ontarians with disabilities by 2025.
STANDARDS focus on five key areas
1. Accessible Customer Service 2. Accessible Information and Communications 3. Accessible Built Environment 4. Employment Accessibility 5. Accessible Transportation
Standards could cover such areas as: accessible buses, safe pedestrian routes into buildings, automatic doors at entrances, wider door frames to allow access by large wheelchairs and scooters, lower counter heights at cash registers, large-print menus, accessible washroom facilities, staff training in serving customers with learning disabilities, and adaptive technology in the workplace.
In accepting responsibility for these standards it was announced in 2006 that Twenty-Six restaurant chains across the province have voluntarily taken steps that will make their eateries more accessible to people with disabilities
The Provincial Legislation will make Ontario a leader in accessibility. It will help achieve an accessible society where all Ontarians have the opportunity to learn, work, play and participate to their fullest potential.
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In 2007 Ontario Regulation 429/07 made under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 called THE ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE was enacted.
In the very near future it is anticipated that the Ontario Regulations for ACCESSIBLITY STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORTATION will be enacted.
The Standards Development Committee for the ACCESSIBILE BUILT ENVIRONMENT is developing a standard for release for public review by February, 2009 which could have a broad impact on building regulations. Accessibility requirements for all residential occupancies and mandatory retrofit for existing buildings under the Building Code are an example of what the SDC is considering.
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The aim of this Report is to provide information on town owned public properties and describe measures taken since the year 2003, when the Committee was formed, and will continue to take in the coming year to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility in the Town of Bracebridge.
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The Council of the Corporation of the Town of Bracebridge is committed to:
The continual improvement of access to all municipal owned facilities, premises and services for the disabled.
The provision of quality services to all members of the community.
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Dorothy-Anne Leavens AAC Secretary-Treasurer Development Services Department October 28, 2008
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