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Accessibility Plan
November 2004-November 2005
To: J. Fratesi
Chief Administrative Officer
Corporation of the City of Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Submitted by
The Disability Accessibility Advisory Committee
Lynn Rosso, Coordinator – Municipal Plan
Don Scott, Coordinator – Transit Plan
Submitted (November 29, 2004)
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Table of Contents
Accessibility Plan November 2004-November 2005 ......................... 1
A Message From your Accessibility Advisory Committee ....................... 4
Executive Summary ........................................................................ 6
Aim ............................................................................................... 8
Objectives ...................................................................................... 8
Mission Statement .......................................................................... 8
Review and Monitoring Process ......................................................... 8
How to get a Copy of the Plan .......................................................... 9
Coordination and Consultation .......................................................... 9
Contacts ...................................................................................... 10
Recommendations and Successes ................................................... 11
Policies/Standards Recommendations .............................................. 17
Priority Projects Workplan .............................................................. 19
Corporate and Departmental Activities ............................................. 20
Corporate Wide Barriers .............................................................. 20
Sault Ste. Marie Public Library Board ............................................ 26
Police Services ........................................................................... 31
Clerks Department ..................................................................... 35
Community Services Department ................................................. 37
Engineering and Planning Department .......................................... 66
Finance Department ................................................................... 73
Fire Services .............................................................................. 74
Human Resources Department ..................................................... 75
Legal Department ...................................................................... 77
Public Works and Transportation Department ................................ 78
Social Services Department ......................................................... 90
Transit Accessibility Plan November 2004-November 2005 ......... 103
Aim ........................................................................................... 104
Objectives .................................................................................. 104
Description of Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services .............................. 104
Establishment Of An Internal Accessibility Planning Coordinator ........ 105
Barrier Identification Process ........................................................ 105
Recent Barrier Removal Successes ................................................ 105
Transit Services Barrier Identification for 2004-2005 .................... 108
Review and Monitoring Process ..................................................... 118
Communication of the Transit Services Accessibility Plan ................. 118
APPENDICES ................................................................................. 119
Appendix A - Accessibility Centre - Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma ....... 120
Appendix B - Barrier Free in Algoma Association ............................. 122
Appendix C - Recommendations to the Province .............................. 125
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A Message From your Accessibility Advisory Committee
This year has been extremely fruitful as we celebrate our second year as a
committee of the corporation. We have reason to celebrate our successes in
the accomplishments of the past year as well as what is being planned for
the coming year.
The audit of the corporation was completed utilizing the tool drafted by a
student employee last year and carried out by student employees this year
under the guidance of an accessibility team member. We have learned what
is needed by the corporation to make the corporation more accessible, and
will continue to identify and prioritize more as the accessibility bill gradually
expands its authority into the public sector.
It is our sincere hope that we will be able to work more closely with other
publicly funded corporations within the district in effecting changes toward
more accessibility in their facilities.
Some of the changes will be subtle, but all will be remarkable in making life
better for the disabled in our community, giving them dignity and worth.
We wish to thank the Mayor and Council for their support in our endeavours,
the volunteer hours given by all committee members, as well as the support
of those resource persons who have assisted us to navigate through the
system.
This is a committee that is working diligently at fulfilling its’ mandate.
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Executive Summary
This Annual Accessibility Plan provides a comprehensive snapshot of the
corporation’s successes with regards to barrier removal activities.
In response to commitments based on last year’s plan, the Operational
Review (audit) of all departments and boards was completed during the
summer. The audit provided the framework for a Priority based Plan to
address identified barriers.
The Accessibility Advisory Committee continues to provide a significant
leadership role of support to the Corporation. They recognize the financial
challenges facing the Corporation with respect to barrier removal activities
and have committed to a Priority Based Plan, which addresses barrier
removal activities with the greatest population impacts.
The Accessibility Advisory Committee has identified several key issues
critical to continued success.
In reviewing the barriers encountered by people with disabilities in our
community, the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) has determined
that:
o The creation of certain policies and standards applied throughout the
corporation would have a significant positive impact on the daily lives of
people with disabilities;
o The removal of barriers can only be accomplished when each
Department, Police Services, the Library and Transit Services are
following consistent procedures and standards.
o Consultation with the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) and
appropriate agencies on barrier removal activities continues to be a
critical function.
o The AAC recommends that the corporate mission statement on
Accessibility be amended to add the following statement:
“We hereby make a commitment to prevent further barriers from being
created in our future planning processes and implementation”.
In addition, a separate non-profit corporation created by members of the
Accessibility Advisory Committee and community is currently under
development. Their vision is:
“Barrier Free in Algoma Association will work to improve the quality of life
and participation in the community for persons with disabilities and their
families by improving accessibility, economic, educational and recreational
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opportunities, and to improve service levels and availability.”
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Aim
This plan identifies barrier removal activities the Corporation of the City of
Sault Ste. Marie has taken in the past year and recommendations that the
City will receive for the current term (2004 - 2005), to identify, remove and
prevent barriers to accessibility of municipal building premises, facilities,
goods and services.
Objectives
To identify, prevent and remove barriers this plan:
o Reviews previous year's municipal efforts
o Describes the recommendations that the City will receive for the coming
year
o Describes how the City will make this accessibility plan available to the
public
o Describes the longer term objectives
o Provides an Archive of the past plan
Mission Statement
The Corporation of the City of Sault Ste. Marie is resolved to identify and
remove barriers to full participation for persons with disabilities and to
encourage our community partners to share our vision of a fully accessible
community. We hereby make a commitment to prevent further barriers
from being created in our future planning processes and implementation.
Review and Monitoring Process
The Joint Working Group will meet twice yearly to review departmental
progress. Following each meeting, the working group will remind staff,
either through personal contacts or by e-mail about their roles in
implementing the plan.
Each department head will attend one Accessibility Advisory Committee
meeting annually to report on department successes and challenges and to
receive AAC feedback.
During the summer of 2005, students will update the Audit Tool and
evaluate the following:
o Point des Chenes Park
o All other Parks
o Heritage and Historical Sites
o Ongoing evaluation of completed projects will also occur via consumer
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usage, documented concerns and positive feedback.
How to get a Copy of the Plan
Hardcopies of this plan are available at the Accessibility Centre at the John
Rhodes Community Centre. The Plan may be downloaded from the
Corporate website at www.cityssm.on.ca
Additional information is available on the District of Sault Ste Marie Social
Services Administration Board website at: www.ssm-dssab.ca
On request, the plan will be made available on computer disk, in large print,
on tape or in braille.
Hardcopy of the past plan is available upon request. Please call the
Accessibility Centre at 541-2822.
Coordination and Consultation
The Accessibility Advisory Committee will facilitate the capture of feedback
from the general public for both the Corporate and Transit Plans.
During the summer 2004 two summer students assisted by a staff member
were hired by the Corporation to conduct the Operational Review (Audit) of
all corporate buildings and facilities.
Barriers identified by the Operational Review (Audit) are reflected within
each department, board, or service’s section of this plan. The audit was
conducted with the guidance and support from Accessibility Advisory
Committee members and volunteers and staffing support funded through
Human Resource Services Development Canada.
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Contacts
The Accessibility Centre
Phone: (705) 541-2822
FAX: (705) 541-2849
TTY: (705) 541-2815
Accessibility Office Supervisor:
Tracey Roetman - (705) 541-2834 Email: t.roetman@cityssm.on.ca
Accessibility Research Assistant:
Craig Kohler - (705) 541-2831 Email: c.kohler@cityssm.on.ca
Accessibility Clerical Assistant:
Todd Walton - (705) 541-2822 Email: t.walton@cityssm.on.ca
The Accessibility Advisory Committee
o Has 16 members appointed by Council for a three (3) year term
consecutive with Council elections.
o Meets monthly
o Municipal staff assigned as resource
o Non members may participate as part of a variety of subcommittees:
Barrier Subcommittee
Sensitivity Training Subcommittee
Communications Subcommittee
Site Plan Review Subcommittee
Transit Subcommittee
DSSMSSAB Subcommittee
The Accessibility Advisory Committee Executive
Chair: Gerard Taylor - (705) 945-7777
Vice Chair: Dorothy Macnaughton - (705) 759-0733
Secretary: Ann Marie McPhee - (705) 949-1294
Municipal Staff Resource
Municipal Plan Coordinator:
Lynn Rosso - (705) 541-7310 Email: l.rosso@cityssm.on.ca
Staff Resource:
Jerry Dolcetti - (705) 759-5384 Email: j.dolcetti@cityssm.on.ca
Nuala Kenny - (705) 759-5407 Email: n.kenny@cityssm.on.ca
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Recommendations and Successes
The Accessibility Advisory Committee continues to provide a significant
leadership role advising, developing, and making recommendations on the
plan. The committee has also played an integral role along with staff on
numerous corporate barrier removal activities this past term, which we refer
to as "Successes.” Our successes reflect a joint collaborative effort.
Accessibility Successes
o A demonstrated corporate and staff commitment to Accessibility
Planning and action and a sincere desire to meet the needs of persons
with disabilities attending at the Corporation.
Barrier Removal Activities including:
o Council Chambers made more accessible with
Installation of a ramp to enable people in wheelchairs to access
the Speaker’s podium
Wheelchair-seating areas closer to seating for non-disabled
persons.
Contrasting Strips installed for visible pathway identification
o An accessible Restroom installed on the second floor of Bay St. Senior
Citizens’ Centre
o Contrasting strips painted on Civic Centre steps
o Civic Centre West Entrance Lighting improvements
o Civic Centre West Entrance Call Button lowered to an accessible height
o Stair Chairs made available through the District of Sault Ste. Marie
Social Services Administration Board for Evacuation of persons with
disabilities
o Civic Centre Lobby Level restroom converted to a Unisex Accessible
Restroom
o Braille installed in the Civic Centre Elevators
o Purchase of a portable ramp for use at the Civic Centre
o Tax office counter modifications
o Legal has provided invaluable staff support on the following:
Traffic flow issues
Accessible Signage including Handicapped Parking
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Ongoing discussions re: Handicapped Permit Violations
Research on Ontario Building Code and accessibility issues
Bylaw reviews
o John Rhodes Community Centre hallway fire doors modified with auto-
closure mechanism installed (set as open for improved traffic flow)
o McMeeken Arena entrance was repaired and made accessible
o Bellevue Park has added some accessible Picnic Tables
o City Website has been made more accessible and a new section on
accessibility has been added
o Public Works and Traffic made:
Many new Depressed Curbs at strategic locations in the City.
This was a coordinated effort using supports from Transit
Services and summer students.
Numerous paved pathways throughout Bellevue Park
A loop pathway recently completed along the waterfront, up to
Lake and Queen Street intersection and back to west parking
lots
The Cemeteries Chapel and washrooms more accessible
Graveside services access available
o The creation of an Operational Review Audit Tool (by a summer student
in 2003) which has been distributed widely around the province
o Renovations in the John Rhodes Community Centre to create an
accessible office space for new accessibility office staff. This space
provides a venue to showcase best practices of an accessible working
environment. This centre provides a fully accessible location for
community resources and support.
o Renovations at the Police Station entrance of:
An upgraded “above code” ramp
2 Modified Van accessible parking spaces added to existing
accessible parking spaces and relocated adjacent to the building
o Corporate staffing support to the Accessibility Advisory Committee
o An Operational Review (audit) of all Departments, Police Services,
Transit Services, and all Branches of the Public Library, which provided
the majority of the content for this Plan.
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o Joint Working Group of representatives of staff from Municipal
Departments, Transit Services, Police Services and the Library and
representatives from the AAC - who met to review progress of
Departmental Barrier Removal Projects, to voice concerns and to learn
from each other
o Policy Reviews with Senior Staff on Evacuation, Communication and
Parking and Enforcement including:
Discussions regarding Evacuation protocols with Fire and Police
Services to create a database for persons with evacuation
concerns
o Civic Centre building support including:
More consideration to the layout of meeting rooms and services
to meet the needs of persons with disabilities attending meetings
at the Civic Centre
Protocol around after hours access to the Civic Centre
Protocol of identification and registration of persons attending at
the Civic Centre who require supports to evacuate the premises
o Main Library improvements including:
New lighting
Redesigned Website
Large Print Format Annual Library Report
Revisions to the Fire Evacuation Plan
o Social Services provided:
Full time staff support and commitment
Research and funding support for the creation of an Accessibility
Centre
Establishment of contract staff positions involving persons with
disabilities to enlighten the community as to available human
resources and services
Materials and equipment support
Assistance to link with the broader Sault Ste. Marie catchment
area
o The District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board
provided:
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Funding for barrier removal activities in the District of Sault Ste.
Marie Social Services Administration Board catchment area
An information linkage with other areas to improve accessibility
in the District of Algoma
Stair Chairs from Emergency Medical Services surplus to be
available at the Civic Centre for Evacuation purposes
o The Accessibility Advisory Committee initiatives include:
Hosting the hugely successful first Ontario-wide Accessibility
Conference last September with financial support from the
Corporation
Development of a resolution arising out of the conference calling
on the province to create Provincial Standards on Accessibility.
This resolution was endorsed by Council, widely distributed and
supported by other Ontario Municipalities
Activating the volunteer community to support accessibility
planning. Volunteers have given a conservative estimate of
approximately 35000 hours to help make Sault Ste. Marie more
accessible
Development of Non Profit Foundation “Barrier Free in Algoma
Association “ (in progress)
Ground floor involvement with the Sault Trails Advisory
Committee to establish best practices of recreational integration
Attempts to create a working relationship with the New Hospital
Project
Stakeholder status at the discussion table surrounding the
development of the new sports and entertainment complex.
Networking with other municipalities and DSSABs throughout the
province
Active membership and involvement with the Ontario Network of
Accessibility Professionals
Invitation to participate at Ministerial Consultations, and other
municipalities’ events
Development of a Sensitivity Training Program to be rolled out to
staff beginning January 2005
Activities Approved by Council and in Progress
o John Rhodes Community Centre accessibility improvements at the
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Arenas including
Arena steps painted with Contrasting Strips
More inclusive seating in the arena
o John Rhodes Community Centre accessibility improvements at the Pool
including:
Enlarging a Cubicle in the Pool Family Change Room to allow
room for attendants
Adding a Lift in the Pool Change Room
Adding a portable Lift to the Pool
Adding a Pool Commode and Aquatic Wheelchair
Padding Pool Benches
Installing Yellow Tred Lines in Stairwells throughout the centre
Lowering a section of the Arena Canteen Counter
Larger Signage
Sliding Doors at the Arena entrance
Power Pool Access Door
Recommendations
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends:
o That Council forgive the rent on the Accessibility Centre
o That Barrier Removal Budget be increased from $50,000 to $75,000 in a
phased in approach over 3 years; with barrier removal projects managed
in consultation with the Accessibility Advisory Committee
o That a communications strategy to include alternate formats for
corporate release of public information be led by the city
Communications Officer with input from Information Systems and the
Accessibility Advisory Committee.
o That a Corporate Communications Policy be created and is mandated for
use throughout the Corporation.
o That the review (as recommended in the previous plan) to update the
Accessible Site Design Manual for the City of Sault Ste. Marie be
undertaken during this year
o That the Joint Working Group meets twice yearly (reduced from
quarterly). Departments to provide written reports about the status of
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their barrier removal projects at each meeting
o That each Department Head attend one AAC meeting annually to update
the AAC on departmental progress and to receive AAC feedback
o That each department review and prepare their work plan on barrier
removal activities for the next planning year to the AAC by the end of
May of each calendar year. Input on these work plans will be achieved
through the Joint Working Group meetings
o That each department must remove a minimum of 1 barrier per year as
identified in the plan based on the Priority ranking system. Where
departmental funding is not available, each department must make
written application for Accessibility Advisory Committee support to access
the Corporate Barrier Removal budget.
o That the City's Sensitivity Training "You can make a difference!" be
initiated in 2005 and delivered to the Joint Working Committee, The
Mayor and City Councillors, the CAO and Department Heads, Transit
Services staff and all city staff.
Continuing in future years on an ongoing basis for new hires (an
orientation package will be produced as part of the Sensitivity
Training materials)
That all new hires will receive Sensitivity Training with Heath and
Safety Training
As part of staff refresher training
o That an ongoing public consultation process will begin following approval
of this Plan. This process will be managed at the Accessibility Centre,
which provides an accessible venue for everyone in the Sault and
surrounding areas to participate.
o That a Corporate Policy be created that ensures only accessible buildings
or offices will be leased, rented or purchased. And that the Operational
Review Audit Tool be used to assess the accessibility of proposed
buildings prior to leasing, rental or purchase
o That the City of Sault Ste. Marie take immediate action to rectify current
inaccessible Municipal office spaces (whether leased, rented or
purchased) that provide services to the public
o That the Accessibility Advisory Committee be provided with selected site
plans received by the City of Sault Ste. Marie for review in a timely
manner.
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o That all equipment, supplies and services purchased by the Corporation
of the City of Sault Ste. Marie will be purchased, taking into account how
accessible these are to persons with disabilities.
o That, wherever possible, bulk purchase of accessibility items should be
considered consistent with the city’s own practice
o That the City demonstrates leadership to the community by maintaining
a permanent presence and financial support to the Accessibility Centre.
Policies/Standards Recommendations
The AAC recommends the following priorities be included in existing
corporate policies and newly created policies and that they be adopted and
included as part of Corporate Standard Operating Procedures.
o In respect of the Corporate Policy governing leases, rentals and
purchases of buildings:
That the corporate policy be amended to ensure that only
accessible buildings or offices are considered when leasing,
renting or purchasing
That the City of Sault Ste. Marie undertake immediate action to
relocate or renovate current inaccessible offices or buildings and
That people with various types of disabilities, along with the
AAC, be enlisted to assess the accessibility of these buildings
prior to arrangements being finalized
Note: The Accessibility Advisory Committee is aware of the costs
related to the above recommendation and proposes that cost
efficiencies be applied when considering renovations versus
relocation
o That a corporate standard be developed to ensure that at least one pay
phone is accessible to persons with disabilities in every city facility in
which pay phones are present or are to be installed.
o That the Corporate standard be amended to limit obstacles from paths
of travel (including offices, hallways, lobbies etc.) as they impede a
person using a wheelchair or someone with a visual disability from
moving safely.
o That, when the Province establishes design standards for accessibility,
the City of Sault Ste. Marie will adopt these standards and wherever
possible will exceed the minimum recommendations.
o That the Corporate Communications Policy be modified to include
accessibility in its application and be mandated for use throughout the
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Corporation. This would consider all public documents, advertising,
promotional materials, job postings, announcements, web service and
signage.
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Priority Projects Workplan
Ongoing Priority Projects from 2003/2004
o Staff Sensitivity Training
o Remaining Improvements in Council Chambers - Audio system for
persons with hearing disabilities – research in progress. Resolution
pending information on most appropriate system to use: FM or Infrared
System
o Communications Policy
o Evacuation Procedures
o Handicapped Parking and Enforcement
o Strobe Lighting for Fire alarms
Priority Projects for 2004/2005
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends the departments, Police
Service, Fire Services, Transit Service and the Library Board continue their
barrier removal efforts with emphasis on the barriers identified with 3 *s
first as these are considered the highest priorities.
It should be noted that staff has been very cooperative and approachable in
dealing with identified barriers. This work plan serves as a guide to assist
staff with user recommendations for continued success with barrier removal
activities.
In accordance with the Ontario Disabilities Act every organization will
remove a minimum of 1 *** barrier during this year.
The barriers are identified for priority removal as follows:
*** High Priority
** Medium Priority
* Low Priority
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Corporate and Departmental Activities
Corporate Wide Barriers
***Barrier: Policy
There are numerous inaccessible offices and facilities providing
customer services to the general public. In these offices there are
staff with disabilities whose needs must also be considered.
Locations:
o Social Housing office
o City Daycares
o Outdoor pools
o Korah Branch Library
o Steelton Seniors Drop In Centre
o Civic Centre Departmental offices:
Community Services Department
Finance Department
Legal Department
Clerks Department
CAO’s office
Mayor’s office
Human Resources Department
Engineering and Planning Department
Recommended Action:
o Develop a Policy to ensure that inaccessible sites either renovate or
move and that consideration of local needs be included (e.g. Manzo Pool
provides needed social service in that area of the city)
Resources Required:
o Funding for renovation or relocation
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire alarms are inaccessible for persons with hearing disabilities
Issues:
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o No visible signals for persons with hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Strobe Lighting for Fire Alarm Systems for Deaf and Hearing Impaired
(consult with CHS)
Resources Required:
o Costs for purchase and installation of strobe lights on all Fire Alarms in
Corporate buildings
***Barrier: Physical/Attitudinal
Evacuation Policies at corporate locations
Issues:
o Frequent power outages
o Potential fires
o Meeting rooms are not always easily evacuated
o Unknown numbers and circumstances of persons visiting corporate
locations
o Existing evacuation plans have not addressed the needs of persons with
disabilities
o Has not been tested with persons with a variety of disabilities to
determine potential problems with evacuation
Recommended Action:
o Host Evacuation Drills and involve persons with a variety of disabilities
to determine shortfalls in existing plans
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Inconsistent accessible signage both internal and external
Issues:
o Some city buildings signs are too small
o No tactile signage
o Some signs have poor contrast
o Some signs are poorly located (too high, too low)
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o No signage where a sign could be helpful
Recommended Action:
o A review of all signage at all city facilities should be conducted following
the implementation of the communications policy amendments.
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Accessibility Advisory Committee input
***Barrier: Physical
Work Stations in offices are crowded
Recommended Action:
o Relocate as many items in paths of travel as possible, create larger door
openings as renovations are being done
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Limited accessible doors throughout the Corporation
Issues:
o Many doors - interior (including closets), exterior doors and restroom
door stalls are heavy and open towards the person
o Most doors have round knobs
o The doorways are narrow
o Some doorways have thresholds
Recommended Action:
o Interior doors could be left open during business hours
o Wherever possible use Motion Sensor Door mechanisms to ensure full
accessibility. If not possible have upper and lower Push Plate
mechanisms installed
o Adjust hydraulics on all doors to minimum settings
o All new door installations should be a minimum 40 inches wide as per
established accessibility guidelines
o Remove Thresholds
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o Replace door handles with L shaped handles
Resources Required:
o Cost of renovations
***Barrier: Physical
Limited accessible restrooms at the Civic Centre and other corporate
locations
Issues:
o No accessible restroom on the 3rd Floor of the Civic Centre
o Heavy public usage for meetings and Council Chambers attendance
o Many restrooms throughout the corporation have heavy doors
Recommended Action:
o Civic Centre: convert an existing restroom to a Unisex Accessible
restroom on each floor (1 per year beginning with the Third Floor)
o Adjust automatic door closures to minimum settings
o Remove double entry doors (vestibule style)
o Remove stall doors wherever possible (i.e. consistent with Fire Code).
This may mean existing restrooms with multiple stalls become single
user rooms
Resources Required:
o Cost of renovations
***Barrier: Physical
Location of Grab-bars in existing accessible restrooms does not
consider independent transfer requirements
Recommended Action:
o Examine existing grab bars and/or add additional grab bars (As a
standard, pull down grab bars should be added wherever possible)
Resources Required:
o Costs for purchase of grab bars
o Installation of grab bars
***Barrier: Auditory
No telephone device for use by persons with hearing disabilities
(Although the Corporation had TDD/TTY services in the past, they
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were not well known to consumers and therefore not utilized).
Issues
o No TDD/TTY system available at corporate locations where public require
access (including: Clerks Department, Tax Division, Public Works
Division, Social Services Department, Transit Division, Police Service,
Fire Services, Civic Centre Lobby, Library)
o Public awareness of their availability
Recommended Action:
o Purchase TDD/TTY systems for all public access sites (consider bulk
equipment purchase and training needs)
o Promote the TDD/TTY availability and number in accordance with the
Communications Policy
Resources Required:
o Cost of equipment
o Staff training
***Barrier: Physical
Some front reception desks throughout the departments at the Civic
Centre and offsite corporate offices are too high for persons
requiring seated or lower station services. Reception services are
inconsistent.
Recommended Action:
o Renovate or replace reception stations with low counters (universal
design feature)
o Provide pen and paper (this allows persons with hearing/speech
disabilities to communicate)
o Train reception staff on techniques to communicate with persons with
invisible disabilities
Resources required:
o Funds to change reception stations where required
o Staff time and training
***Barrier: Physical/Visual/Auditory
Hallways and rooms can be difficult for persons with auditory,
neurological, and visual disabilities including depth perception
disabilities
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Issues:
o Heavily patterned flooring
o Thick carpeting
o Poor contrast with walls
o Ramps are sometimes too steep and poorly designed
o Stairs without contrast
o Stairs with varying sized runs and risers
Recommended Action:
o Install plain coloured carpeting/flooring (either light or dark)
o Install Contrasting Strips on stairs
o Paint walls a contrasting color from floor
o Mark transition changes for depth perception
Resources Required:
o Cost to create contrast changes
***Barrier: Physical
Limited handicapped parking spaces and widths of these spaces
Issues:
o Insufficient number of spaces at locations with high public usage
o Spaces not wide enough for wheelchair transfers from side load vehicles
Recommended Action:
o Increase and enlarge the number of handicapped parking spaces
Resources Required:
o Cost to create spaces
o Cost for additional signage
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Library
Sault Ste. Marie Public Library Board
Lead Contact: Wilhelm Eisenbichler, Director of Public Libraries
(705) 759-5246
Barriers Identified by Operational Review
Location: Main Branch Public Library; 50 East Street
*** Barrier: Physical
The Main Branch Lift has limited accessibility.
Issues:
o The design of the library means that anyone with mobility or age-related
disabilities requiring access to library services or the restroom must use
the lift.
o The lift is too small, has weight restrictions (not enough room for a large
wheelchair and an attendant, new electric wheelchairs and scooters are
very heavy), not enough room to manoeuvre
o Door to access lift is heavy, extremely difficult to hold door and to move
wheelchair at the same time
o Difficult for anyone with dexterity problems to operate lift (buttons
difficult to push)
o Keyed access to lift difficult for those with dexterity problems
Recommended Action:
o That the Barrier Subcommittee with representation from the Library
Board develop a strategy to address the funding for an accessible
elevator for the Main Branch of the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library. This
is the highest priority due to safety issues and great expense related to
the repairing of current lift when required.
o Replace lift with a proper totally accessible elevator designed for people
with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Cost of elevator, funding to come from as many outside sources as
possible, enabling City’s share to be as low as possible
***Barrier: Physical
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Library
Downstairs Restrooms have one grab-bar only and are not designed
for independent transfers.
Issues:
o No pull down grab bars
o Grab bars required on both sides of toilets
Recommended Action:
o Add pull down grab bars
o Add one additional regular grab bar on the opposite side of the toilet in
each handicapped restroom stall
Resources required:
o Installation and purchase of grab bars
***Barrier: Visual
Stairs are not well contrasted.
Issues:
o Poor marking on stairs for contrast for persons with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Mark stairs across front on top of each stair with contrasting strips
Resources required:
o Funds for strips and installation
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire Alarm is not accessible for persons with hearing disabilities
Issues:
o No strobe alarm for persons with hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources required:
o Installation and purchase cost for strobe lighting
**Barrier: Physical
Children’s Department is not accessible to children in wheelchairs
Issues:
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Library
o Children’s area has no roll under tables
Recommended Action:
o Redesign one table from children’s area to fit wheelchair under
o OR purchase one wheelchair accessible children’s table
Resources required:
o Cost to redesign one table in children’s area
o OR cost of one new table
*Barrier: Physical
Upstairs Children’s Restroom is not accessible. No signage
indicating location of accessible restrooms.
Issues:
o Small, not designed for wheelchair use, narrow restroom doorway, no
roll under sink, no grab bars
o ***No sign indicating Handicapped Accessible Restrooms on lower level
Recommended Action:
o Post sign near Children’s Restrooms to indicate Handicapped Accessible
Restrooms on lower level
o Investigate possibility of creating one larger, unisex restroom where
there are currently one boys’ restroom and one girls’ restroom
o Identify necessary design modifications and costs involved
Resources required:
o Cost of sign
o Staff time
o Cost of consultation with an architect
Location: Churchill Branch Library
***Barrier: Physical
Insufficient Handicapped Accessible Parking
Issues:
o Only one available parking space with no signage
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Library
Recommended Action:
o Add three more handicapped parking spaces, two of which are larger for
vans with ramps
o Require four handicapped parking signs
Resources Required:
o Cost to create three more handicapped parking spaces
o Cost for handicapped parking signs
*Barrier: Physical
Entrance would be more accessible with a motion sensor door
Issues:
o Automatic doors inadequate
o Tight space
Recommended Action:
o Install motion sensor door opener
o Enlarge door opening to 40 inches
Resources required:
o Cost of motion sensor door opener
o Cost to enlarge door opening
Barrier: Physical
No accessible restroom in the library
Issues:
o Restroom is not accessible
o Located in mall; therefore not under the city’s jurisdiction.
o Existing restroom has no grab bars, no roll under sink; toilet is too low
Recommended Action:
o Approach mall owner to see if they might be willing to undertake
modifications to restroom to make it wheelchair accessible
Resources required:
o None
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Library
Location: Korah Branch Library
The Korah Branch of the Public Library is totally inaccessible; the
Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends that an accessible location be
found as soon as possible in the same area of the city. It is important to
have an accessible Library in this area because not everyone lives within
easy access of the Main Branch or Churchill Branch. One suggestion is to
locate this Branch of the Library in the Market Mall if this is economically
feasible. The barriers identified by the audit would require significant funds
to remove, particularly the installation of an elevator for access to library
services. These barriers are included for your information.
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Entrance into lobby, no access to library services, no elevator
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Walkways: Walkways are poor and run down and curb cuts are
needed
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Entrance: too big a Door threshold, no accessible door and door
wasn't wide enough
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Hallways: Hallways need to be a minimum 1.5m wide
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Restrooms: - no grab bars, dispensers were too high, no roll under
sinks
Barrier: Visual
Issues: Stairs: - stairs not marked with contrasting strips for the visually
impaired
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Doors: - doors too narrow, no L-shaped handles
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Police
Police Services
Lead Contact: Inspector Glenn Toni, Support Services
(705) 949-6300 Ext 350
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
***Barrier: Policy
Widespread abuse of handicapped parking spaces throughout the
city
Issues:
o Enforcement of misuse of handicapped parking permits
o Handicapped Accessible Signage is inconsistent around the private
sector parking lots in the city
o Use of counterfeit Permits
o Several meetings have been held with both Legal and Police but no
resolution has been finalized
Recommended Action:
o Continued discussions involving Legal, Transit and Police to consider
bylaw and/or policy changes to allow enforcement
o City Police conduct regular spot checks or blitzes a minimum of 8 times
per year to address the abuse of handicapped parking spaces,
particularly in the winter when mobility is more difficult and in the
summer when there is increased use of parking by local citizens and
tourists
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Front entrance doors are inaccessible
Issues:
o Entrance doors are not very accessible
Recommended Action:
o Install motion sensor door opener at entrance
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Police
Resources required:
o Cost to install motion sensor door opener
***Barrier: Physical
Front reception is inaccessible
Issues:
o Reception desk is too high
Recommended Action:
o Research cost to lower reception desk
Resources required:
o Staff time
o Lower reception desk
*** Barrier: Physical
Public Telephones are inaccessible
Issues:
o Telephones are too high
Recommended Action:
o Lower one phone
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Cost to move phone to lower location
*** Barrier: Physical
Women's Change rooms are inaccessible
Issues:
o Showers have a high threshold to get in
o Restrooms need grab bars, roll under sink and toilet is too low
o Change area pretty tight
Recommended Action:
o Create a level entrance to showers,
o Add grab bars,
o A roll under sink and
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Police
o A higher toilet
Resources Required:
o Cost of:
Creating a level entrance to showers,
Adding grab bars,
A roll under sink and
A higher toilet
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire alarm does not address the needs of persons with hearing
disabilities
Issues:
o Auditory alarm is present, but no visual alarm for the persons with
hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
***Barrier: Attitudinal
The evacuation plan does not address the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
persons such as:
o That stairs may be an issue,
o Or that the person requires support but can evacuate without major
assistance
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
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Police
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Basement Restrooms are inaccessible
(NOTE: There are accessible restrooms elsewhere in the building)
Issues:
o No grab bars,
o Toilet is too low,
o No roll under sink,
o Toilet paper holder was too high
Recommended Action:
o Add grab bars in correct location,
o Raise toilet seat,
o Renovate sink area to create sink low enough to roll wheelchair under,
o Move toilet paper holder lower
**Barrier: Physical
Central Records office is very tight for space
Issues:
o Obstacles in paths of travel which create obstacles for people in
wheelchairs or with a visual impairment
Recommended Action:
o Staff rearrange items to remove from paths of travel
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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Clerks
Clerks Department
Lead Contact: Chris Belsito, Corporate Affairs Manager (705) 759-5396
Barriers Identified by Operational Review
***Barrier: Physical
Some municipal voting stations are inaccessible, other than at
Advance polls
Issues:
o Polling locations have limited physical access
o Voting ballots are not available in braille format
Recommended Action:
o Provide accessible voting locations
o Polling stations should have a number of braille formatted ballots for
individuals to vote independently
Resources required:
o Funding for braille ballots
o Portable ramps or relocation of poling locations
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Forms and records are not available in alternate formats – carried
over from Accessibility Plan 2004
Issues:
o Communication Policy does not address alternate formats
Recommended Action:
o Amendments/additions to Corporate Communication Policy which include
alternate formats and consistent distribution of materials
Resources required:
o Funding for alternate formats
o Staff time
***Barrier: Auditory
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Clerks
Closed Captioning services for Council meetings and or onsite
interpreter are unavailable
Issues:
o Persons with hearing disabilities cannot participate in Council meetings
Recommended Action:
o Purchase American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter services
o Provide onsite visual Recording services
Resources required:
o Funding
o Staff time
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CSD
Community Services Department
Lead Contact: Cathy Marinelli, Aquatics Supervisor, CSD Facilities
(705) 759-5387
Barriers Identified by Operational Review
Division: Community Centres and Marine Facilities
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
John Rhodes Arena has limited accessible viewing spaces
Issues:
o Limited accessible area (segregated and only one space) in old and new
rink for people in wheelchairs to view games
Recommended Action:
o Create more integrated accessible viewing platforms for people in
wheelchairs closer to rink areas
Resources Required:
o Cost to relocate ramps
o
Location: Memorial Gardens
We are aware there will be a new arena built in the near future and
therefore we recommend that barrier removal projects undertaken in the old
Memorial Gardens be those with minimal costs.
***Barrier: Visual
Inconsistent use of Contrasting Strips on stairs
Issues:
o Stairs in arena were marked with yellow paint - strip across front on top
of stair, but all other stairs need to be marked
Recommended Action:
o Mark all stairs at Memorial Gardens with yellow paint - strips across
front on top of stairs (as per CNIB recommendations)
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Cost of paint
o Staff time
o
These barriers reinforce the need for a new complex and the
recommendations should be included in the new complex design and
existing arenas
Barrier: Physical
Entrance is not very accessible
Issues:
o No automatic door opener
o Platform is not level entering door
o Door entry has centre post, and are very heavy to open
Recommended Action:
o Replace with automatic motion sensor door opener at main entrance
o Level entrance if cost is minimal
o Ensure one entrance is totally accessible, with motion sensor doors
o Other doors should have L-shaped handles
Resources Required:
o Cost of automatic motion sensor door opener
o Cost to level entranceway
o Cost to retrofit one entrance
Barrier: Physical
Hallways are not very accessible
Issues:
o No ramps through hallways
o No ramps
Recommended Action:
o None, due to cost
Resources Required: N/A
Barrier: Physical
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CSD
The bathroom is not completely accessible
Issues:
o Grab bars are in the wrong location - should be on opposite side
Recommended Action:
o Move grab bars to opposite side
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Barrier: Physical
No access off of main floor
Issues:
o No elevator or ramps to reach bottom or top floors of building
Recommended Action:
o None, due to cost
Resources Required: N/A
Barrier: Auditory
Fire alarm does not provide visual alarm for persons with hearing
disabilities
Issues:
o No visual signals on Fire alarms
Recommended Action:
o Determine cost of strobe lighting, if feasible, implement as soon as
possible
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
Barrier: Visual
Signs are consistent throughout the building but not accessible for
persons with visual or mobility disabilities
Issues:
o Signs are not at eye level for people using mobility aids such as
wheelchairs
o Poor contrast for persons with visual disabilities
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CSD
Recommended Action:
o If feasible, from a cost perspective, replace present signs with those
with better contrast and place them at eye level for those in wheelchairs
Resources Required:
o Cost of new signage
o Staff time to install
Barrier: Attitudinal
Evacuation Plan does not consider the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
persons where:
Stairs may be an issue,
Or the person requires support but can evacuate without major
assistance
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Location: John Rhodes Community Centre
***Barrier: Physical
Indoor Restroom accessibility features do not account for persons
using facilities independently
Issues:
o No grab bars for independent transfers
Recommended Action:
o Add grab bars on opposite side of toilets
o Add pull down grab bar for each handicapped accessible restroom
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CSD
Resources Required:
o Cost of grab bars
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Picnic Table is not accessible
Issues:
o Cannot roll under or get comfortably close to table at junior football field
Recommended Action:
o Purchase accessible picnic table, similar to those at Bellevue Park
Resources Required:
o Cost of picnic table
***Barrier: Visual
Some signage is not accessible for persons with visual disabilities
Issues:
o Signs on some restrooms not large enough for persons with visual
disabilities to see (not sure of number of signs required)
o No signs indicating location of meeting rooms and that they are
handicapped accessible
Recommended Action:
o Replace existing signs with larger ones with good contrast
o Add signs indicating location of meeting rooms and that they are
handicapped accessible
Resources Required:
o Cost of new signs
***Barrier: Visual
Stairs do not have contrast for persons with visual disabilities
Issues:
o Not marked with contrasting strips across front on top of each stair
Recommended Action:
o Install contrasting strips across front on top of stairs
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Cost of material for strips
o Staff time
***Barrier: Visual
Issue:
o Poor lighting in elevator
Recommended Action:
o Improve lighting in elevator
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
Track Area not accessible
Issues:
o Stands/stairs no markings
o Area around Stands: gravel makes it difficult for people in wheelchairs to
navigate,
o Location of garbage can creates a problem
Recommended Action:
o Mark stairs with contrasting strip,
o Replace gravel with asphalt near stands, remove garbage can from path
Resources Required:
o Cost for marking stairs
o Cost to replace gravel
**Barrier: Physical
Arena Entrance is not very accessible
Issues:
o Entrance doors have small push buttons which are not very effective
Recommended Action:
o Install motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
o Purchase of door openers and installation
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CSD
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire Alarm is not accessible to everyone
Issue:
o Auditory alarm is present, but no visual alarm for persons with hearing
disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
***Barrier: Attitudinal
There are no planned recreational programs for people with
disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Develop recreational programs for people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Evacuation Plan does not consider the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
persons where:
Stairs may be an issue,
Or the person requires support but can evacuate without major
assistance
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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CSD
Location: Manzo Pool
The AAC realizes this is one of only two outdoor pools in the City and
therefore, we feel it is necessary to make it a priority to ensure this
pool is totally accessible to all citizens of this community, whether
they have a disability or not.
We also recommend that when funding is obtained, a new, totally
accessible roll in outdoor pool be created.
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance to Pool area and to change rooms is not accessible
Issues:
o Has no paved ramp to enter pool area
o No ramped entrance to change rooms
Recommended Action:
o Create a paved ramp to pool entrance and ramps into change rooms
Resources Required:
o Funds to create ramps (to meet 1/20 standard for incline)
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance Doors are not very accessible
Issue:
o Door threshold is too high at entrance
Recommended Action:
o Create level entrance by removing Door threshold
Resources Required:
o Funds to make entrance doorway level
**Barrier: Physical
Fountain is not accessible
Issue:
o No roll under fountain
Recommended Action:
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CSD
o Install roll under fountain or water cooler
Resources Required:
o Cost for roll under fountain to be installed or for water cooler and cups
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Evacuation Plan does not consider the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
persons where:
Stairs may be an issue,
Or the person requires support but can evacuate without major
assistance
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Location: Greco Pool
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance is not accessible
Issues:
o Stairs prevent people in wheelchairs from using the pool
o Latch of gate too high
Recommended Action:
o Move the entrance to gate of the fence on Albert Street West which is
already level
o Lower latch of gate
Resources Required:
o To ensure gate entrance is wide enough for larger wheelchairs (40 inch
minimum), some modifications to the gate area may have to occur, as
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CSD
well as lowering the latch, although this should be a minimal cost
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Doors into change rooms are not very accessible
Issue:
o Door thresholds are too high
Recommended Action:
o Build ramps into change rooms (1/20 grade)
Resources Required:
o Funds to add ramps
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Pool is not accessible to persons in wheelchairs who require
assistance on entry and exit.
Issue:
o No lifts available for access into pool for some people who use
wheelchairs
o No on deck wheelchair
Recommended Action:
o Research cost of lifts needed for access into pool,
o Cost of on deck wheelchair
o Investigate funding sources for this equipment
o Priority following completion of previous barriers to this pool
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Location: McMeeken Arena
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance is not accessible
Issues:
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CSD
o Entrance doors too narrow,
o Doors too heavy
Recommended Action:
o Widen entrance doors to a minimum of 40 inches
o Install motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
o Funds to widen doors
o Funds to install motion sensor doors
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms have limited accessibility
Issues:
o No grab bars on opposite side of toilet,
o No pull down grab bars,
o No roll under sinks
o Paper towel dispensers too high
o Area is too small
Recommended Action:
o Install additional grab bars on opposite side of toilets, add pull down
grab bar in each handicapped restroom, retrofit current sinks to create
roll under sinks
o Lower paper towel dispensers
Resources Required:
o Funds for grab bars, retrofitting of sinks, and cost to lower paper towel
dispensers
***Barrier: Physical
Current handicapped seating too low, inadequate
Issue:
o Poor wheelchair accessible viewing area
Recommended Action:
o At south end of Arena, area from parking lot is already ramped, add a
ramp up to the current seating at south end with a designated area for
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CSD
wheelchairs
Resources Required:
o Build ramp up to stands at south end of arena
***Barrier: Physical
Limited interior accessibility
Issues:
o Interior Doors: doors are too narrow, door handles are not L shaped
o Several dressing rooms are not ramped
Recommended Action:
o Widen interior doors (at least 2 per year) to meet minimum 40 inch
requirements,
o Replace door handles as they wear out with L shaped ones,
o Ramp dressing rooms (at least 2 per year to correspond with dressing
room doors which are being widened)
Resources Required:
o Funds to widen doors
o Cost of L shaped handles
o Cost to ramp dressing rooms
*Barrier: Physical
Hallways: Hallways very narrow and should be at least 1.5 m in
length
Recommended Action:
o Research cost to widen hallways
o If cost effective, undertake renovations required to widen hallways
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Possibly funds for widening hallways
Location: Pine Street Marina
The Accessibility Advisory Committee is aware this is a public facility
designed to be used by people in the area, with and without
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CSD
disabilities alike and that American tourists use this facility as well.
***Barrier: Physical
Docks B and C are accessible but:
Issues:
o Steep
o Slightly dangerous
Recommended Action:
o Lessen the slope on these two docks so that at least 2 docks are
wheelchair accessible
Resources Required:
o Cost to alter slope of these two docks
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Docks A, D, E, F, G ramps are not accessible to people in wheelchairs
Recommended Action:
o If funding available:
Add at least one or two boards before the dock starts and one or
two boards before each ramp begins,
Start with docks with highest public use (for model of wheelchair
accessible ramps at public marina, refer to Hilton Beach, St.
Joseph Island)
Resources Required:
o Cost to add boards to current ramps
***Barrier: Physical
Concession Stand is not accessible
Issues:
o Concession stand is too high
o Door too narrow
Recommended Action:
o Add ramp up to present concession stand
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CSD
o Enlarge doorway to 40 inches
o OR instead of the above, investigate possibility of moving concession
stand to previous location which was accessible
Resources Required:
o Cost of ramp and
o Cost to enlarge doorway OR
o Cost of changing location
***Barrier: Physical
Phone booth is inaccessible
Issue:
o Dirt and gravel area around Phone booth
Recommended Action:
o Ensure phone is low enough
o If not, lower phone
o Install asphalt where necessary to make phone booth accessible
Resources Required:
o Cost to lower phone
o Cost to install asphalt
***Barrier: Physical
No accessible Picnic Table
Recommended Action:
o Purchase one accessible picnic table
Resources Required:
o Cost of one accessible picnic table
Division: Recreation and Culture
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends the following
priority initiative:
o Research Recreation Programs for people with disabilities
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CSD
Location: Senior Citizens’ Centre (Bay St.)
***Barrier: Physical
Inadequate handicapped Parking facilities
Issues:
o No proper designated handicapped parking with signage at the front of
the building
Recommended Action:
o Redesign total area now designated for delivery trucks to make it into a
total of 8 handicapped parking spaces, including 3 larger spaces for vans
with ramps
o Designate area at entrance with 10 min. maximum parking for delivery
trucks
Resources Required:
o Cost to paint parking areas
o Proper signage
***Barrier: Physical
Exterior door entrances are not very accessible
Issues:
o Front entrance: no motion sensor door openers
o Back Door entrance: too narrow
o All ground floor entrance/exits have an elevated threshold
Recommended Action:
o Add motion sensor door openers at entrance
o Enlarge entrance at back door to 40 inches
o Remove thresholds or ramp the entrance
Resources Required:
o Motion sensor door openers
o Cost to enlarge back doorway
o Cost of ramps/renovations to thresholds
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
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CSD
Hallways are difficult for persons with visual disabilities including
depth perception disabilities
Issues:
o No contrasting colours
o Ramps are too steep and poorly designed
Recommended Action:
o Install plain coloured carpeting
o Install Contrasting Strips
o Mark transition changes for depth perception
Resources Required:
o Cost of new carpeting or markings to delineate changes in level or
ramps
**Barrier: Physical
Water Fountains are not very accessible
Issues:
o Water fountains are not recessed into the wall
Recommended Action:
o Purchase or lease water cooler and disposable cups, less of a concern
about germs
Resources Required:
o Cost of water cooler and cups
***Barrier: Physical
Lobby is very small
Issues:
o Space is small and confined,
o Difficult for people in wheelchairs or who are persons with visual
disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Move some items, including plants on ramp
o Remove items and redesign space to open up lobby
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Restroom on Main Floor is not accessible
Issues:
o Not a large enough door
o No roll under sink,
o Grab bar only on one side of toilet, no pull down grab bar
o No signage to indicate handicapped accessible restroom
Recommended Action:
o Widen door opening to 40 inches,
o Move sink lower to make sink usable for those in wheelchairs,
o Add a second grab bar on other side of toilet,
o Add pull down grab bar
o Put up appropriate signage for restroom for handicapped on main level
Resources Required:
o Cost for renovations
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Lower Level Restroom has limited accessibility
Issues:
o No roll under sink,
o No raised toilet,
o Grab bar on only on one side of toilet,
o No pull down grab bar
Recommended Action:
o Lower sink to make sink usable for those in wheelchairs,
o Add a second grab bar and a pull down grab bar,
o Add 18 inch high toilet where shower stall is now
Resources Required:
o Cost for renovations
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CSD
o Staff time
***Barrier: Visual
Stairs are not very accessible for persons with visual disabilities
Issues:
o Not marked with contrasting strips across front on top of stairs
Recommended Action:
o Install contrasting strips across front on top of stairs
Resources Required:
o Cost of material for strips
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Fire Evacuation for persons with disabilities
Issues:
o No space at landing for evacuation area for people using wheelchairs
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan to take into account where people in
wheelchairs can be safely accommodated
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Interior doors are not very accessible
Issues:
o Openings are too narrow,
o Door handles are difficult for people in wheelchairs to open
Recommended Action:
o As renovations are done, door openings to be changed to 40 inch
openings;
o When door handles are replaced, they need to be changed to L shaped
ones
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Costs to be included in renovation estimates
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Limited accessible walkways
Issues:
o Not all 5 walkways are accessible to doorways,
o Too much of a Door threshold to get into building at some entrances
Recommended Action:
o In 2004/2005, research cost to create depressed curbs at inaccessible
entrances
o If funds not available in current year, in following year’s plan, fund at
least 1 accessible entrance per year
o If funds available, redo all necessary entrances
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Possibly cost to create depressed curb at one entrance
Location: Steelton Seniors’ Centre
The AAC recommends the following:
o That a survey be undertaken to assess usage of this centre by seniors
with disabilities
o Given the cost to make the current location totally accessible for those
with disabilities, relocate the West end Seniors’ Centre to an affordable
location which is already totally accessible or one which can be renovated
for little cost
o That people with various types of disabilities, by consultation with the
AAC, be enlisted to assess the accessibility of these buildings prior to
arrangements being finalized
o Any recommendations for the year 2004/2005 outlined below would only
be undertaken if the Steelton Seniors’ Centre remains in its present
location.
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
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CSD
Handicapped parking requires attention
Issues:
o Not close enough to entrance
o Not correctly indicated with signage
Recommended Action:
o Create a minimum of 6 handicapped parking spaces in current grassed
area, with 2 larger ones for vans with ramps
o Install proper signage
Resources Required:
o Cost to pave and paint parking areas
o Cost of proper signage
***Barrier: Physical
Walkway is too narrow
Issues:
o Tight area for wheelchair accessibility, should be a minimum of 1.8m
wide
Recommended Action:
o None – cost prohibitive
o Resources Required: N/A
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance doorway is not very accessible
Issues:
o Doors are too heavy without power assistance
o Ramp is very narrow
o Landing area around door is also very tight,
Recommended Action:
o Install motion sensor door opener
o A ramp is needed on the Wellington side of the building
Resources Required:
o Cost for motion sensor door opener,
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CSD
o Cost of a ramp
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
Main level is very crowded
Issues:
o Very crowded for wheelchair movement,
o Too many objects around for persons with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Identify best location and relocate objects in room to allow for better
accessibility
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
No access off main floor
Issues:
o Elevator is out of service
Recommended Action:
o Repair or replace the elevator
Resources Required:
o Cost of elevator repairs or replacement
***Barrier: Physical
Restroom on the main level is not accessible
Issues:
o Toilet is too low
o Only one grab bar
o No pull down grab bar
o Doorway does not meet the 40 inch width standard
Recommended Action:
o Install seat to make toilet 18 inches high
o Add second grab bar to opposite side of toilet and
o Add pull down grab bar
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CSD
o Widen doorway to 40 inches
Resources Required:
o Cost for toilet seat
o Cost for grab bar and pull down grab bar
o Cost to widen doorway
***Barrier: Visual
Stairs are not very accessible for persons with visual disabilities
Issues:
o No contrast on stairs for persons with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Mark stairs with contrasting colour with a strip across the front on top of
each stair
Resources Required:
o Cost for contrasting colour markings
***Barrier: Auditory
Auditory alarm is present, but no visual alarm for persons with
hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
***Barrier: Physical
The doorways are not very accessible
Issues:
o All doors need to meet the 40 inch minimum standard,
o Most doors need motion sensor door openers
o Centre posts should be removed
Recommended Action:
o Widen doors, remove centre posts, install motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Cost for wider doors
o Motion sensor door openers
o Cost to renovate doorways
***Barrier: Physical
Fire exit is dangerous for persons with disabilities
Issues:
o Old fire escape
Recommended Action:
o Consult Fire Department and. if recommended, remove old fire escape
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Location: Roberta Bondar Pavilion
***Barrier: Physical
Stage is not accessible without prior arrangements to enter through
keyed entrance
Recommended Action:
o Research cost to install ramp
o If monies available, install ramp (incline 1/20 grade) to go up onto stage
Resources Required:
o Cost to install ramp at front of stage area
***Barrier: Physical
4 Public Restrooms have accessibility issues
Issues:
o In all restrooms, grab bars not in correct locations
o Toilet paper holders in wrong location
o Toilets too low
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CSD
o Sinks are too close to toilets, limiting turning radius
Recommended Action:
o Grab bars added on other side of toilets
o Pull down grab bar added in each restroom,
o Toilet paper holders relocated
o Raise toilets to 18 inches high
o Move sinks
Resources Required:
o Costs of materials
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Concession Stand is not accessible to persons using wheelchairs
Issues:
o Concession stand counter is too high
o Unreachable for people using wheel chairs
Recommended Action:
o Research cost to lower section of counter at concession stand
o Do necessary renovations if funding permits
Resources Required:
o Staff time to research cost
o If funding available, cost to lower section of counter
***Barrier: Physical
Poor lighting outside the tent and boardwalk area at night
Issues:
o Poor night visibility
o Safety issue
Recommended Action:
o Research appropriate lighting that provides high illumination in
pathways
Resources Required:
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CSD
o Staff time
o Cost of lighting
***Barrier: Physical
Improper signage for handicapped parking
Recommended Action:
o Install proper signage
Resources Required:
o Cost for signs
Location: Waterfront Walkway
**Barrier: Physical
Boardwalk Area near Docks Restaurant has stairs only
Issues:
o No ramp for boardwalk access
Recommended Action:
o Research cost to create ramp in this location
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Division: Municipal Day Nurseries
Location: Jesse Irving Day Care Centre
The AAC recommends the City ensure that one Day Care Centre
become entirely accessible in 2004/2005. At any time there may be
a child, parent, or guardian with a disability who requires access. It
is our recommendation that the Jesse Irving Day Care Centre be the
first centre to become totally accessible. It is also recommended
that once the changes are carried out, that this location be marketed
to the community as a handicapped accessible Day Care Centre.
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
Limited accessible parking
Issue:
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o Only one handicapped parking space which is too narrow and not
marked properly
Recommended Action:
o Create at least 2 large handicapped parking spaces (large enough for
vans with ramps) with correct handicapped parking signs
Resources Required:
o Cost of marking two handicapped parking spaces
o Cost for signs
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance is not accessible
Issue:
o Door is heavy and narrow
Recommended Action:
o Install motion sensor door opener
o Enlarge door opening to 40 inches
Resources Required:
o Cost of motion sensor door opener
o Cost to enlarge door opening
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms are not very accessible
Issues:
o Restrooms are too small
o Grab bars are on one side of the toilet only
o No pull down grab bars
o No roll under sinks
Recommended Action:
o Ensure there is one toilet with a drop down grab bar
o Install one additional regular grab bar
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CSD
o Lower one existing sink or add a roll under sink
Resources Required:
o Cost for drop down grab bar and one additional grab bar
o Cost to lower one existing sink or to add a lower sink
***Barrier Physical:
Adult Restroom is not accessible
Recommended Action:
o Renovate to make the adult restroom accessible
Resources Required:
o Renovation costs
***Barrier: Physical
Playground is not accessible
Issues:
o Not enough accessible equipment,
o No paved paths to get to equipment
Recommended Action:
o Identify which equipment is currently accessible and which needs to be
added, research costs of proposed new equipment
o Add accessible playground equipment as funds become available
(investigate possibility of doing this in conjunction with the purchase of
accessible equipment for other playgrounds in city)
o Pave paths to playground equipment
Resources Required:
o When funds obtained, add as much accessible playground equipment as
possible
o Cost to pave paths
***Barrier Physical:
Equipment in Classroom is not accessible
Issues:
o Water, sand tables and other tables are too high for wheelchair access
Recommended Action:
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CSD
o If possible, lower existing water table and sand table; if not possible,
purchase wheelchair accessible water table and sand table
o If possible, lower at least one table for wheelchair access, if not possible,
purchase at least one wheelchair accessible table
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Evacuation Plan may not consider the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
children with disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Review the evacuation plan to take into account evacuation for persons
with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
*Barrier Physical:
Kitchen is not accessible
Issues:
o Space too tight
o Counters are too high to access
Recommended Action:
o Modifications to the design of the kitchen to make it accessible
Resources Required:
o Costs of renovations
Location: Maycourt Day Care Centre
The AAC recommends the following:
That the City relocates the centre as per the recommended corporate policy
as soon as possible
Because this building is currently inaccessible to children with mobility
disabilities, the AAC recommends that no changes be made at this time, but
rather that the Jesse Irving Day Care Centre is made totally accessible.
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For your information, the audit identified the following barriers.
Barrier: Physical/Visual
Only one narrow Handicapped Parking spot with no signage
Barrier: Physical
Outside Entrance:
o No Ramp
o Entrance door is too narrow,
o Door handle is too high
Barrier: Physical
All interior doorways too narrow
Barrier: Physical
Hallways
o Too narrow,
o Have too many obstacles
Barrier: Physical
Kitchen
o Too narrow
o Door threshold at entrance too high at rear kitchen door
Barrier: Physical
Restroom toilet
o Too low,
o Too many obstructions in washroom
o No roll under sink
Barrier: Physical
Back Yard
o No ramped exits,
o Only some accessible playground equipment,
o No paved paths,
o Door threshold at sheltered outdoor area
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Engineering & Planning
Engineering and Planning Department
Lead Contact: Maurice Kukoraitis (705) 759-5414
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
Division: Engineering and Construction
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends that in all new
construction and renovations, the principle of universal designa (see
Appendix D) be applied. This will ensure that all members of the community
have improved access to all services
***Barrier Visual/Informational
Construction Signage
Issues:
o For people unable to read, construction signs indicating sidewalk
construction for example, are ineffective and could pose a serious liability
risk
Recommended Action:
o Add pictorial construction signs as well as the ones with print to indicate
areas of construction
***Barrier: Physical
Exterior building design doesn’t consider rain and snow elements for
persons with disabilities
Issues:
o Buildings such as Knights of Columbus and Cara Community have no
canopies for persons waiting to take transport
Recommended Action:
o Consider canopies for drive through access (e.g. large hotels limo
entrance)
Division: Building
***Barrier: Physical
Current Building Guidelines are obsolete (carried over from
Accessibility Plan 2004)
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Engineering & Planning
Issues:
o No current standards upon which to base decisions on accessible design
or renovations throughout the corporation
Recommendations:
o Update existing Guidelines (1989 edition) to reflect current needs
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Building Inspectors have limited training on accessibility features
Issues:
o No training in this area
Recommendations:
o Provide specific training on universal design
o Hire a Building Inspector with Disabilities who can provide sensitivity
and experience with accessible design
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Building Code enforcement
Issues:
o Locations conform to standards then change the facility and remove the
accessible features
Recommendations:
o Training
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Planners have no hands on training about Universal Design
Issues:
o Limited understanding of universal design principles
Recommendations:
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Engineering & Planning
o Training on universal design standards
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Costs for workshops and travel
Division: Building Services – Civic Centre
***Barrier: Physical
West Entrance needs accessibility improvements
Issues:
o Door openers are problematic
o Inadequate signage indicating handicapped entrance,
o Steep ramp at entrance,
o People with disabilities don’t know about the existence and location of
buzzer if entrance is locked
Recommended Action:
o Install high/low double door push plates at back entrance
o Purchase larger sign with good contrast for handicapped entrance
o Extend and regrade the current ramp to 1/20 slope
o Using corporate communications standard, communicate to the public
the availability of the handicapped entrance, mentioning location of the
buzzer in case the entrance is locked
Resources Required:
o Funds for motion sensor door openers, new sign, reconstruction of ramp
o Cost for advertising
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Lobby Reception has limited accessibility
Issues:
o Reception desk is too high
o No pen and paper available for persons with hearing disabilities to
communicate effectively
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Engineering & Planning
Recommended Action:
o Lower the station to present an accessible universal design which
provides access to all persons
o Provide pen and paper as required
Resources required:
o Funds to lower portion of desk
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Meeting Room furniture does not accommodate wheelchairs
Issues:
o Tables are too low for wheelchairs to roll under
Recommended Action:
o Trim wood at the bottom of 2 tables per meeting room or extend legs of
2 tables per meeting room
o If the above two options are not feasible, purchase 2 wheelchair
accessible tables per meeting room
(Recommend: Two meeting rooms per year Russ Ramsay Room and
Thompson Room in first year)
Resources Required:
o For options #1 and 2, minimal cost
o Staff time
o For option #3, funds to purchase 4 new wheelchair accessible meeting
room tables
***Barrier: Physical
Accessible Restrooms are designed for attendant transfers
Issues:
o Handicapped accessible restroom grab bars are only on one side of
toilet, all restrooms require second grab bar on other side of toilet as well
to allow independent transfers
o No pull down grab bars in handicapped accessible restrooms
o Toilets are too low in handicapped accessible restrooms
Recommended Action:
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Engineering & Planning
o Install additional grab bar and pull down grab bar in all handicapped
accessible restrooms on opposite side of toilet
o Install raised toilet seat (18 inches in height)
Resources Required:
o Cost of grab bars
o Cost of toilet seat
o Staff time
o Consultation with Accessibility Centre for clear specifications
***Barrier: Physical
Limited accessible restroom facilities
Issues:
o Only one unisex wheelchair accessible restroom on lobby level,
o No wheelchair accessible restrooms on any other levels
Recommended Action:
o Create a totally wheelchair accessible restroom on one level each year,
beginning with the 3rd floor where public meetings are held
Resources Required:
o Cost of retrofitting to corporate standardized restroom design at least
one restroom (unisex) on the 3rd floor
o Staff time
***Barrier: Visual
Interior stairs are not very accessible for persons with visual
disabilities
Issues:
o No markings for contrast across front on top of all stairs
o In the event of an evacuation, persons with visual disabilities could not
use stairs to exit safely
Recommended Action:
o Install contrasting strips on stairs
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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Engineering & Planning
o Cost of material
***Barrier Visual:
Interior Signage in Civic Centre is too small.
Issue:
o Signs at each floor level are too small
Recommended Action:
o Purchase larger signs beginning with lower level:
Install sign near elevators with larger lettering and good contrast
to indicate what is on each floor
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire Alarm does not accommodate persons with hearing disabilities
Issues:
o No visual alarm (strobe lights) for persons with hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
o Consult with Canadian Hearing Society
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Evacuation Plan does not consider the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Plan does not reference any special circumstances around assisting
persons where:
Stairwells are not large enough to serve as the safe
location for wheelchair users pending evacuation,
The person requires some support (e.g. person has
visual disability but can walk down stairs with an
escort) and can evacuate without major assistance
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Engineering & Planning
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan and take into account better methods for
evacuation for persons with disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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Finance
Finance Department
Lead Contacts:
Rocco Martone, Accounting Division (705) 759-5278
Sharon St Pierre, Tax, and License Division (705) 759-5290
Enzo Coccimiglio, Information Systems (705) 759-5364
***Barrier: Visual
Tax bills and other documentation sent to the public is not available
in alternate formats
Recommended Action:
o Participation in review and amendment of Corporate Communications
Policy as it pertains to privacy requirements
o Ensure alternate formats will be available on request
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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Fire
Fire Services
Lead Contact: Jim St. Jules (705) 759-5274
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
***Barrier: Physical/Attitudinal
Corporation Evacuation Policies do not address standards for
evacuation of persons with disabilities.
Issues:
o Frequent power outages
o Potential fires
o No Visual Fire alarms
o Meeting rooms are not always easily evacuated
o Unknown numbers and circumstances of persons visiting corporate
locations
o Existing evacuation plans have not addressed the needs of persons with
disabilities
o Has not been tested with persons with a variety of disabilities to
determine potential problems with evacuation
Recommended Action:
o Host Evacuation Drills and involve persons with a variety of disabilities
to determine shortfalls in plan
o Each site Evacuation Plan must have specifics regarding protection of
persons with disabilities in an evacuation
o Ensure that appropriate Visual Alarms are mandated
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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HR
Human Resources Department
Lead Contact: Della-Marie Iley - Disability Case Manager (705) 759-5370
Barriers Identified by Operational Review
***Barrier: Attitudinal
No experience in interviewing techniques with persons for
disabilities
Issues:
o No provision for accommodation at interview process
o Little experience with interviewing requirements
Recommendations:
o Specific Human Resource training about interviewing persons with
disabilities
Resources:
o Consult with the Accessibility Centre
o Consult with the Accessibility Advisory Committee
o Local Agencies
***Barrier: Physical/Communicational
Employment opportunities and applications are not available in
alternate formats
Issues:
o No alternate formats for applicants to apply for employment at the City
o Job postings are not available in alternate formats
Recommendations:
o Participate in the revision to the Communications Policy
o Ensure alternate formats will be available for job applicants on request
o Post job openings as per the Communications policy
Resources:
o Consult with the Accessibility Centre
o Consult with the Accessibility Advisory Committee
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HR
o Local Agencies Employment programs
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Federal and Provincial Employment Programs are not routinely
explored as potential opportunities to fund start up training periods
for new hires with disabilities
Recommendations:
o New hires with disabilities can be accommodated for initial training
period (6 months average) to learn the job
Resources:
o Consult with the Accessibility Centre staff
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Legal
Legal Department
Lead Contact: Nuala Kenny - Assistant City Solicitor (705) 759-5407
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
An Audit of Corporate Bylaws must be initiated during this Plan
period to determine which Bylaws have an impact on Accessibility
Planning
***Barrier: Policy/Bylaw
Public paths of travel must be kept free of obstacles, which create
hazards for persons with disabilities
Issues:
o Items such as recycling boxes and garbage cans are placed in middle of
sidewalks or in the path of travel and create a hazard for people in
wheelchairs or those who are visually disabled
o Persons edge lawns abutting public pathways and create ruts, which are
dangerous to wheelchairs, bicycles, strollers etc.
Recommended Action:
o Ensure these items are placed in areas which aren't in the path of travel
for people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Communication with waste removal company staff
o Public announcement
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PWT
Public Works and Transportation Department
Lead Contact: Jim Smithers (705) 541-7000
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
Division: Cemeteries
***Barrier: Communication
Staff has a standing arrangement with funeral homes to arrange
Accessible graveside visitation. However, many people don’t know
about it
Issues:
o Lack of communication
Recommendation:
o Publicize availability
Resources:
o Staff
Division: Parks
The Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie in their continuing support of
disabled youth provided accessible play apparatus to the City of
Sault Ste. Marie a number of years ago, thus establishing and
supporting the principle of accessible recreation. With the passage
of time, this equipment – well used and well loved is in need of
upgrading to current standards.
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends that the following
activities occur:
o That a completely Accessible Playground be created at Bellevue Park
o That improvements to the restrooms be made at Bellevue Park
Location: Bellevue Park
***Barrier: Physical
Handicapped Parking Signage is incomplete
Issue:
o Some Handicapped parking signage does not meet the bylaw
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requirements
Recommended Action:
o Continue to install proper handicapped parking signs
Resources Required:
o Cost of signs
o Staff time
*** Barrier: Physical
Inaccessible Playground Equipment
Issue:
o Only a couple of pieces of totally accessible playground equipment
available for children with a disability
Recommended Action:
o Research accessible playgrounds and cost for totally accessible
playground to be built at Bellevue Park,
o Use Mississauga ZAP playground as modelb
o Research funding sources
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
No Access to Playgrounds
Issues:
o No paved areas near playground equipment (to allow someone in a
wheelchair who may have a non disabled child) access to playground
equipment
Recommended Action:
o Pave areas near playground equipment
Resources Required:
o Cost to install asphalt areas near playground equipment
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms are not very accessible
Issues:
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o Stalls for wheelchair users too small,
o Doesn’t allow for greater turning radius of larger wheelchairs
o No grab bars,
o No proper signage
o Doors too heavy
Recommended Action:
o Enlarge handicapped restroom stalls
o Add pull down grab bar
o Two additional grab bars, one on either side of toilet
o Install proper handicapped restroom signs
o Install motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
o Cost of enlarging handicapped restroom stalls
o Cost for grab bars
o Cost for signs
o Cost for high/low push plate door openers (Accessibility Centre in John
Rhodes is an example)
***Barrier: Physical
Accessible Picnic Tables have been made available but should be
increased
Issues:
o Accessible tables only under picnic shelter, not throughout park
Recommended Action:
o Purchase 6 additional picnic tables, locate in areas of park where there
are other picnic tables and ensure locations are accessible by paved
pathways
o When replacing tables on a regular basis throughout park, ensure that
all new purchased tables are accessible (universal design)
Resources Required:
o Cost of accessible picnic tables
***Barrier: Visual/Physical
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Limited Signage
Issues:
o No large central sign with large print and good contrast to indicate
location of features of park
Recommended Action:
o Install large signage in most visible location
o Ensure that all signage reflect full universal design (consider using
symbols on signs)
Resources Required:
o Cost of signs
o Staff time to install
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends the following:
o That the Research Staff Person with the Accessibility Centre conduct
research to obtain funding for universally identified needs in city parks
and parks under the DSSMSSAB catchment’s area on a priority basis
o That a survey and needs assessment be undertaken to identify what
each park requires to become accessible and to identify the parks with
the highest public usage so that priorities can be established
o That a sub committee of the Accessibility Advisory Committee be
established with representation from the Parks Division to review and
prioritize what is required
o That the City investigate the feasibility of bulk purchases of park
equipment like accessible picnic tables and install as many as
economically viable
o That city parks given the highest priority for accessibility be correlated
to greatest Para bus usage so that resources are used wisely
2004/2005
Each park will need to be re-audited to find out what playground
equipment is already in each park. Audit didn’t identify any
concerns about visual barriers such as size of print or contrast on
signage.
Given that there is a recommendation to create one totally
accessible playground at Bellevue Park, the accessibility needs of
the smaller local playgrounds will have to be addressed in the
Accessibility Plan as funds become available and according to
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PWT
priority.
Until the above recommendations are completed, it would be futile
to address any of the barriers identified in the audit. They are
included below for your information.
Location: Fournier Park
Barrier Physical:
Issues: Needs paved paths to field, add accessible picnic table
Location: Eastside Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs paved paths throughout
Location: Parkland Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs paved paths in order to access equipment
Location: Birchwood Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs paved paths to access equipment, needs more accessible
equipment
Location: Clark Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths, accessible picnic tables and equipment
Location: Centennial Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs paved paths and accessible equipment
Location: Sutton Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs more paved paths, path to tennis courts, accessible
equipment
Location: Indiana Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs accessible equipment, picnic tables, and paved paths
Location: Arizona Park
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PWT
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Paved paths to each baseball diamond needed
Location: Joseph Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs paved paths and accessible picnic tables
Location: East End Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Add more accessible equipment, picnic tables, and paved paths
Location: Snowden Park
Barrier: Physical
Issue: Needs path to tennis court, paved paths, and picnic tables
Location: Retta Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths, curb cuts, accessible picnic tables and
equipment
Location: Penhorwood Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs curb cuts, paved paths for equipment
Location: Bruce Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Add paved paths and accessible picnic tables
Location: Poplar Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible picnic tables
Location: MacDonald Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs curb cuts, paved paths, picnic tables, and accessible
equipment
Location: Cambrian Heights Park
Barrier: Physical
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Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible equipment
Location: Rosedale Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs more paved paths
Location: Wishart Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs more paved paths and accessible picnic tables
Location: Clergue Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible picnic tables
Location: Roberta Bondar Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs curb cuts and paved paths
Location: Wilcox Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible equipment
Location: Sussex Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible equipment
Location: Westwood Park
Barrier: Physical
Issues: Needs paved paths and accessible equipment
Location: Strathclair Park
***Barrier: Physical
Walkways are not very accessible
Issues:
o No paved trails to bleachers and all parts of Strathclair Park
Recommended Action:
o Determine pathway of highest use, pave that pathway first
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o Each year, pave another pathway
Resources Required:
o Cost to pave one pathway
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms are not very accessible
Issues:
o Entrances to restrooms have heavy doors
Recommended Action:
o Retrofit doors to restrooms with motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
o Cost of motion sensor door openers
***Barrier: Physical
Fountain at snack area not accessible
Issues:
o Fountain at snack area not accessible to those in wheelchairs,
o Bottled water too expensive for those on fixed incomes
Recommended Action:
o Install a wheelchair accessible fountain at snack area or install water
cooler (less concern about germs)
Resources Required:
o Cost of wheelchair accessible fountain or water cooler
Division: Traffic
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends the following:
o That a Pilot Project using Audible Pedestrian Signals at Great Northern
Rd. and McNabb St. be initiated
***Barrier: Communicational
Not enough time allowed for crossing major streets safely
Issues:
o Particularly Great Northern Road and Northern Ave.,
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o Great Northern Rd. and McNabb St.,
o McNabb and Willow
o Identify those intersections where many seniors and/or those with
disabilities are crossing
Recommended Action:
o Adjust time allowed to cross these particular streets and any others
identified in audit
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Bylaw
Bicyclists on sidewalks a real hazard to those with mobility
disabilities or those with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Enforce regulations bikes ridden by adults not allowed on sidewalks
o Work towards providing bike lanes for bicyclists so they won't be
compelled to use the sidewalks
Resources Required:
o Cost to create more bike lanes
***Barrier: Visual
Issues:
o Street signs too small to read for those with a visual disability
Recommended Action:
o Research what other communities are using re: size of lettering on
street signs and contrast
o If feasible, as signs are replaced, use those with bigger letters and
contrast
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Additional funds for bigger signs as compared with those being used
presently
***Barrier: Visual/Physical
Persons with visual disabilities cannot cross busy intersections
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independently
o No Audible Pedestrian Signals
Recommended Action:
o Install one APS each year at key intersection, with #1 in 2003/2004
and #2 in 2004/2005
o McNabb and Great Northern Rd.
o Great Northern Rd. and Northern Ave.
o Willoughby and Great Northern Rd.
o Bay St. and East St
o Research cost of APS at each intersection
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Funds to implement one APS each year
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o Drivers are inattentive to pedestrians and people in wheelchairs at
Great Northern Rd. and Northern Ave.
Recommended Action:
o Install a flashing amber light along with a wheelchair sign in all
directions near this busy intersection
Resources Required:
o Cost of signs and lights
Division: Transit
See Transit Plan
Division: Public Works
Location: Sackville Road
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends the following
improvements:
o That a "Paint the Town Yellow"c Initiative be undertaken to promote
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universal design
o Winter snow removal audit required at bus stops and areas where
persons with disabilities reside
***Barrier: Physical
Limited handicapped parking spaces
Recommended Action:
o Add two large handicapped parking spaces for vans with ramps and
appropriate signs
Resources Required:
o Cost to create additional handicapped parking spaces and to add two
more signs
Each year curbs and sidewalks are surveyed (via staff review and
residents contacts) throughout the community and repairs to
sidewalks and construction of wheelchair ramps are completed.
Priorities are set on a citywide basis.
The city has an obligation to attempt to control trip and fall hazards.
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o Curb cuts for people in wheelchairs which also have slashes for people
with white canes fill up with gravel
Recommended Action:
o Investigate what other communities are using, including raised bumps
(consider winter snow conditions)
o In the meantime, ensure the slashes are swept out on a regular basis
Resources Required:
o Staff time to do research
o Staff time to clean out slashes
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
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o Heaved, cracked or broken sidewalks safety hazard
Recommended Action:
o Identify areas most in need of repair, taking into account those locations
where there is a high concentration of seniors and/or those with
disabilities
o (E.g. sidewalk and wheelchair ramp in front of library)
Resources Required:
o Staff time to do audit
o Funds to repair sidewalks
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Social Svcs
Social Services Department
Lead Contact: Rick Cobean, Housing Programs Manager (705) 541-7356
2004-2005 Barriers Identified by Operational Review
The AAC recommends this office be relocated/renovated as soon as possible,
to the recommended standard as per the recommended policy.
Location: Ontario Works (rental location) (Station Tower)
***Barrier: Physical
Doors are not very accessible
Issues:
o Not enough L - shaped handles
Recommended Action:
o Replace door handles with L- shaped handles as they wear out
Resources Required:
o Cost of L - shaped door handles
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance: Motion sensor door opener needed
Issues:
o No automatic door opener
Recommended Action:
o Add motion sensor to current door
Resources Required:
o Cost to purchase motion sensor
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
Stairs are not very accessible
Issues:
o Stairs are not marked with contrast for persons with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
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o Mark stairs with contrasting colour strip across front on top of all stairs
Resources Required:
o Cost of contrasting markings
***Barrier: Auditory
Fire Alarm is not accessible for persons with hearing disabilities
Issues:
o No strobe alarm for the hearing impaired
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
***Barrier: Physical
Evacuation Plan does not address the needs of persons with
disabilities
Issues:
o Stairwells are too small for wheelchairs to fit in case of emergency
Recommended Action:
o Rewrite evacuation plan
o Take into account better methods for evacuation for persons with
disabilities
o Consult with AAC and, if necessary, other people with disabilities
Resources Required:
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Walkways are not very accessible
Issues:
o Ramp at the back of the building is present but slightly steep
Recommended Action:
o Bring ramp out more to meet the 1/20 grade requirement
Resources Required:
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o Cost to improve ramp
Barrier: Physical
Hallways are not very accessible for persons using mobility aids
Issues:
o Hallways are tight and narrow for persons in wheelchairs, walkers etc. to
turn or pass others
Recommended Action:
o None, cost prohibitive or not possible
Resources Required: N/A
*Barrier: Physical
Reception area is not accessible for persons using seated mobility
aids
Issues:
o Reception Desk is too high
Recommended Action:
o Research cost of lowering portion of reception desk
Resources Required:
o Staff time
Location: Social Housing Division
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Issues:
o When case managers or housing staff are on holidays, people taking
over their responsibilities aren't knowledgeable enough to adequately
assist people with disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Ensure that temporary staff are trained to know what to tell those with
disabilities and that they receive sensitivity training
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Sensitivity training
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***Barrier: Visual/Informational
No documents available in alternate formats for people with visual
or invisible disabilities
Issues:
o Documents (such as lease agreements) must be read/interpreted by
someone the person trusts
o Problematic if someone the person trusts isn't available
Recommended Action:
o Establish a partnership with the Community Legal Clinic to arrange to
have a Clinic staff person available to read/interpret documents.
o Create a standard process to manage alternate formats on documents
(e.g. lease agreements) with the help of the Community Legal Clinic))
o Communicate with the public about a process
Resources Required:
o Time and assistance from Community Legal Clinic
The present location for the Social Housing Division is very
inaccessible. A person in a wheelchair may enter the lobby (with
assistance) to the reception area only but nowhere else in the
building.
The AAC recommends this division either be relocated as soon as
possible to an accessible location or request the barrier removal
activities required to make the premises accessible. It should be
noted that the anticipated costs to renovate this building would be
significant.
The citywide audit found the following barriers in this building:
***Barrier: Physical
Inaccessible front (lobby) and back entrances
Recommended Action:
o Install electric eye door and ramp at front (only if there is an elevator
inside the building)
o Install elevator at back entrance
***Barrier: Physical
No elevators access in the building at either front or back doors
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Issue:
o Elevators needed to access the building at the rear entrance and the
second floor.
Recommended Action:
o Research cost of purchasing and installing elevator
o Install elevator
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Cost of elevator
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o No phone to call for cab in Housing Services on Albert St.
Recommended Action:
o Install phone for cab
Resources Required:
o Cost for phone
***Barrier: Physical
Limited and inaccessible handicapped parking
Issues:
o Only one handicapped parking space, which is not near the front
entrance. The back entrance is closer but is not accessible and would
require an elevator to access
o Handicapped parking signs are not proper
Recommended Action:
o Add more handicapped parking spaces
o Ensure that path of travel is clear from parking spaces to front door
Resources Required:
o Cost signage
o Maintenance of pathway
***Barrier: Physical
Walkways are too narrow
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Recommended Action:
o Install electric eye door and ramp at front (only if there is an elevator
inside the building)
o Install elevator at back entrance
Resources Required:
o Costs for elevator
***Barrier: Physical
Building interior does not meet minimum accessibility requirements
Issues:
o Hallways do not meet minimum width requirement of 1.5 M
o Fire extinguisher and water fountain are not recessed into the wall and
act as an obstruction
o Reception area desktop is too high
o Office doors do not meet minimum requirement of 40 inches, office
areas are too narrow
Recommended Action:
o Widen doorways to 40 inches (only if elevator is installed)
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms are inaccessible for persons using mobility aids such as
wheelchairs or scooters
Issues:
o No turning radius for wheelchairs
o Doors do not meet 40 inch minimum width,
o Handles are not L shaped,
o No grab bars,
o Sink taps should be L shaped or single levered (not accessible)
Recommended Action:
o Widen doorways in restrooms,
o Install L shaped door handles,
o Grab bars
o Proper taps on sinks (only if elevator is installed)
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***Barrier: Auditory
Alarm: Auditory alarm is present, but no visual alarm for persons
with hearing disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Install strobe lighting on fire alarm
Resources Required:
o Cost for strobe lighting
Barrier: Physical/Visual
There are no properly accessible or labeled emergency exits
Barrier: Physical
o Lunchroom is non accessible as it is downstairs and the room itself is
quite small
Barrier: Physical
o Doors: Do not meet 40 inch minimum requirement and handles are not
L shaped
o
The following barriers have been identified as issues specific to Housing
Units
***Barrier: Physical
Housing units have limited accessible features
Issues:
o No apartment sized washers and dryers in city housing accessible units
o Difficult for many, particularly those in wheelchairs, to get out in winter
to do washing
Recommended Action:
o Research cost and feasibility of having washers and dryers available at
buildings where there are the most accessible units
o Ensure Laundromats are available on holidays
Resources Required:
o Cost of washers and dryers and retrofitting area to use as Laundromat
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
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o In some accessible housing units cupboards are too high for those in
wheelchairs to use
Recommended Action:
o As accessible apartments are upgraded, add lower cupboards for the
use of those in wheelchairs
Resources Required:
o Cost of additional low cupboards
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o No central accessible area in many housing buildings for people with
disabilities to get together with friends and/or family
Recommended Action:
o Research feasibility of creating an accessible common room in housing
buildings
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Policy
Persons with food allergies or special diets (Crohns, colitis, etc.)
need small apartment sized freezers to store specialty foods
Issues:
o Not allowed in Housing units
Recommended Action:
o Consider requests based on health circumstances
o Create a policy which addresses circumstances under which a person
may have a freezer (include maximum size of freezer)
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o No fire escapes on second floor of Brien, Poplar, McNabb apartments
Recommended Action:
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o Assess the need in conjunction with Fire Department
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Potential cost if fire escapes required
***Barrier: Visual
Issues:
o Colour of paint, light switches, door frames in housing units not helpful
for people with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Use brighter colour on walls, light switches and wall plugs with high
contrast,
o Door frames of another contrasting colour
Resources Required:
o Cost of paint, light switches and wall plugs
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o Heaters in housing units hard to turn off,
o Switches on floor can't be seen,
o Difficult to locate
Recommended Action:
o When heaters need to be replaced, use heaters that are visible
o Install switches in accessible locations
Resources Required:
o Research time
***Barrier: Physical
o "Modified" and "accessible" units are not totally accessible
Recommended Action:
o Audit current "modified" and "accessible" units to determine what
changes are needed to modify units so they are more accessible
o Use building standards in the new Building Code 2005
o If units can't be brought up to standard, assess the feasibility of
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Social Svcs
liquidating some of the current "accessible" units and building new units
o Investigate the feasibility of designing a Pilot model housing building
with affordable, totally accessible units (check with Peterborough and
Thunder Bay)
o Ensure identified barriers are removed when renovations are being
done
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Audit and research
o Accessibility planning prior to renovations starting
o Funding of necessary renovations
***Barrier: Physical
Narrow doorways in many housing units make them inaccessible to
people in wheelchairs
Recommended Action:
o When renovation are done in all city housing units, ensure that all
doorways will be a minimum of 3 feet wide
Resources Required:
o Staff time for planning and research
o Some additional cost when renovations are being undertaken anyway
***Barrier: Physical
Wheelchairs create unintentional damage to doorframes and walls of
housing units
Recommended Action:
o Research what's been done in other communities
o Depending on what research reveals, put aluminum strips or some other
reasonable alternative (clear plastic strips?) on all doorways of present
accessible housing units and those being renovated to become accessible
depending on what research reveals, put wood panelling on walls in
present accessible housing units and those being renovated to become
accessible
Resources Required:
o Staff time
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o Research
o Cost for aluminum strips and wood panelling
Location: Ontario Works
***Barrier: Physical
McDougal Street Entrance has limited accessibility
Issue:
o Doors are too heavy and narrow for wheelchairs and scooters
Recommended Action:
o Widen doorways to 40 inches
o Install motion sensor or dual push plate door opener
o Remove centre posts
Resources Required:
o Cost to widen doorways
o Remove centre post
***Barrier: Physical
Exterior walkways have limited accessibility
Issues:
o Narrow, not a lot of room for wheelchair movement
Recommended Action:
o Widen walkways to a minimum of 1.8m
Resources Required:
o Cost to widen walkways
***Barrier: Visual
Entrance is not accessible to persons with disabilities
Issues:
o No signage indicating accessible entrance which leads to the elevator
o No tactile/braille signage
Recommended Action:
o Add appropriate signage so people in wheelchairs know where to enter
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building
o Add tactile signage
Resources Required:
o Cost of signage
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Hallways and cubicles are tight and crowded
Issues:
o Limited turning radius for persons using mobility devices
o Obstacles in pathways are hazardous for persons with visual disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Relocate or remove items from pathways
o Ensure that pathways are large enough for wheelchairs and scooters to
travel to all cubicles (universal design)
Resources Required:
o Staff time
***Barrier: Physical
Washrooms are not very accessible for persons who transfer
independently
Issues:
o No grab bars for independent transfer
o Door opens the wrong way
Recommended Action:
o Add a grab bar on the opposite side of the toilet for each handicapped
accessible washroom
o Add pull down grab bars
o Relocate the door to open swinging to the left instead of the right
Resources Required:
o Cost of grab bars
o Staff time
***Barrier: Visual
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Stairs are not very accessible for persons with visual, depth
perception disabilities
Issues:
o No contrast on stairs
Recommended Action:
o Install contrasting strips on all stairs
Resources Required:
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Lunchroom has limited accessibility
Issues:
o Wheelchairs cannot roll under the sink and counter
Recommended Action:
o Remove cabinetry
o Lower counter
Resources Required:
o Staff time
**Barrier: Physical
Backdoor exit is not accessible
Issue:
o Door is narrow and heavy
o No ramp on threshold
Recommended Action:
o Widen doorway to 40 inches
o Install motion sensor or dual push plate door opener
o Install Ramp to exit building
Resources Required:
Cost to widen doorways
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Transit
Transit Accessibility Plan
November 2004-November 2005
Submitted by
The Disability Accessibility Advisory Committee
Don Scott, Coordinator – Transit Plan
Submitted (November 29, 2004)
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Transit
Aim
The aim of the Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services Accessibility Plan is to
continue describing measures that Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services has
taken and will take to identify, remove, and prevent barriers of access to
public transportation in Sault Ste. Marie.
Objectives
It is estimated that 20% of our population will have disabilities within the
next two decades. As a result, reliance upon public transportation will grow
as more and more people stop driving or drive less, and demand other forms
of transportation due to their disabilities.
Our community will directly benefit by the ability of all people to use the
services of Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services to travel to work and school, to
attend medical appointments, to run errands, to attend cultural and
recreational events and to socialize.
Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services is committed to:
The continued improvement of access to public transportation premises,
facilities, and services for passengers and employees with disabilities.
The inclusion of people with disabilities in the development and review of its
annual access plan.
The provision of quality services to all passengers and employees.
Description of Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services
In total, eight major bus routes are provided on a daily basis for the people
of Sault Ste. Marie. A total fleet of 26 buses drives 1.5 million kilometers
annually, providing for 1.4 million passenger trips. There are currently 12
low floor buses in our service.
The Para Bus service is comprised of eight Para Bus vehicles, which travelled
a total of 165,000 km. and provided 37,000 passenger trips for 1,836
registered clients. Recent changes to eligibility criteria for Para Bus clients
have increased the number of registered clients to over 2,274 as of July
2004.
The Para Bus Advisory Committee, which was comprised of a group of
volunteers from our community who provided formal input and advice to
Transit Services, has been consolidated with the transportation
subcommittee of the Accessibility Advisory Committee. The new committee
will continue to focus on advocacy and transportation issues on behalf of the
citizens of Sault Ste. Marie regarding service and policy and have input on
the annual accessibility plan.
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Transit
Establishment Of An Internal Accessibility Planning Coordinator
Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services has appointed the staff position of Transit
Manager as the Plan’s Coordinator. Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services will
serve as a resource group to the transportation subcommittee of the ACC
and be responsible for all administrative functions.
Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services has a working group, which includes Don
Scott, Transit Manager (759-5848), Art Gagnon, Assistant Manager of
Transit/Parking (759-5841), Sam Piraino, Chief Inspector/Scheduler (759-
5434), and Roger Caron, Maintenance Supervisor (759-5840). This group
will work collectively to ensure that all aspects of new planning for the
Transit Services Division and Parking are compliant with new legislation
policies for the disabled.
Barrier Identification Process
Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services has worked with the Para Bus Advisory
Committee and with the Accessibility Advisory Committee’s (ACC) Transit
sub-committee to assist representatives to develop an understanding of City
staff regarding the identification of barriers and the required action for the
removal of barriers for a person with a disability from fully participating in
society or accessing a service.
Recent Barrier Removal Successes
With the assistance of the Para Bus Advisory Committee and the ACC Transit
sub-committee, Transit Services staff has identified existing barriers for Para
Bus and regular transit service, which are part of the barrier removal section
of this report. Some recent barrier removals have been identified which are
as follows:
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Transit Services Recent Barrier Removal Successes (2003 – 2004)
Bus Stop signage was missing, faded, or not visible at night.
o Complete replacement of all 700+ bus stop signs. Transit Operators
used highly visible colours for visual recognition at night.
o Proactive annual review of stop poles and signage at destinations used
by low vision users will be ongoing.
o Completed Fall 2003.
Access to Transit Offices at 111 Huron St
o Automatic door opener was installed in July 2003.
o Designated parking for the disabled by permit only was created in July,
2003
Para Bus reservation system
o A second Para Bus Dispatcher became operational the second week of
January 2004.
o A new telephone system was installed at the Transit Services in 2003 to
assist staff in tracking incoming and abandoned calls.
o A second dispatcher will assist to lower the number of abandoned calls.
Accessible low-floor buses are used on all routes at quarter to the
hour.
o Introduction of 10 low floor kneeling buses in the late 1990’s – 40% of
the fleet is currently low-floor accessible.
o Year 2000 to present
Building access for Para Bus vehicles.
o Transit staff is included in site plan and rezoning application review
process.
o Year 2002 to present
Grab rails and handrails on older buses.
o Old vehicles were retrofitted with proper equipment and all new vehicles
are equipped with brightly coloured on-vehicle grab bars and handrails.
o Year 2002.
Eligibility criteria for Para Bus clients did not provide for all of those
individuals in need of accessible transportation.
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Transit
o Eligibility criteria were changed in September 2003 to include all
individuals unable to walk 175 metres or climb the stairs onto a city bus.
o Current client list has increased by 140 since September 2003 (in four
months).
Lack of low-floor buses which kneel year around
o The new telephone system installed at Transit Services, 111 Huron St.
will allow customer to dial 759-5438, press #1 and hear if winter
weather conditions will permit city buses to kneel on that particular day.
o The information will be updated on a daily basis.
o January 2004.
Transit Services route maps and schedules are available on the
Internet. An enhanced view of the route maps is available for
persons with visual disabilities. Go to:
http://cityweb/pwt/transit/tran_main.htm.
o Transit Staff worked with web site designers to provide a user-friendly
web site for the visually impaired. June 2004
Signage c/w staff contacts are posted in all of our Para buses for
clients to provide suggestions and comments regarding the service.
Public notice signage was placed on all full size buses asking the
public to leave the seats at the front of the bus for disabled and
elderly passengers.
o Transit Staff worked with the ACC to establish a communication link for
clients or their attendants to e-mail their questions or comments to the
Transit Manager. June 2004
o Transit Staff worked with the ACC to establish and post the public notice
on all buses that have seats near the front of the bus. June 2004
One new Para bus complete with a wider door and a larger ramp has
been purchased. One new low-floor 35’ bus (complete with ramp)
was added to the transit fleet. The need for a new Para bus was
identified in the 2004 budget. June 2004
o The need for replacement buses which are low-floor accessible will be
ongoing. February 2004
All municipal parking lot signs have been changed to comply with
the Highway Traffic Act. Parking lot signs have been changed at the
hospitals, Group Health Centre and Food Basics.
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Transit
Transit Services Barrier Identification for 2004-2005
***BARRIER-PARA BUS: Attitudinal
Reservation system:
o Waiting time can be too long
o Creates attitudinal problems by staff and/or client
o Booking system is not well utilized
Barrier Removal
o Research the possibility and benefits of on-line booking.
o Provide sensitivity training to address needs of clients and encourage
greater patience on the part of staff.
o Need policy changes.
Resources Required
o Provide staff time to do audit and research.
o Provide staff time for sensitivity training – part of training referred to in
previous barrier should include understanding and patience re: booking
Para Bus
***BARRIER-PARA BUS: Policy
o Policies don’t take into consideration needs of people with different
disabilities.
o Audit policies to identify barriers for people with disabilities.
o There are difficulties in utilization of the Para Bus. Single ridership
creates inefficiencies in utilization.
o The current urban service line policy creates financial hardship.
o The booking system doesn’t allow for pre-booking by a client of regularly
scheduled commitments.
o Booking 48 hours ahead creates difficulties for many people with a
disability who may have good health on the day of booking, but poor
health two days later.
o For some, curb-to-curb service is inadequate.
o The policy re: repeat offenders of cancellations is inflexible, does not
allow for person’s health problems and may have serious impact on
students or working people.
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Transit
o Clients have difficulty planning their time if they don’t know how long
they may be on the Para Bus
Barrier Removal
o Audit and review those policies referred to and, where required, create
new policies.
o Resume pre-booking regularly scheduled activities of consumers.
o Provide same day service.
o Investigate possibility of door-to-door service.
o Communicate policies (new and revised) and rationale behind them to
public, in conjunction with City’s Communications Officer.
Resources Required
o Provide staff time to audit, review and develop policies.
o Allow public consultation prior to reviewing and implementing changes
to policies or creation of new policies.
o Consult with and report to AAC.
***BARRIER-PARA BUS: Policy
Para Bus Service is not available during labour disruptions
Barrier Removal
o Para Bus service needs to be deemed an essential service available
during labour disruptions. A precedent has been set by other
communities (e.g. Toronto)
Resources Required
o Need for policy change.
o Communicate to public in conjunction with City’s Communication Officer
in accordance with the corporate communications policy.
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Issues:
o Lack of understanding by some bus drivers about why someone
requires a guide dog and how to treat the guide dog and guide dog user
Recommended Action:
o Sensitivity training about guide dogs and guide dog users
o Include legal aspects
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Transit
Resources Required:
o Staff training time
***Barrier-PARA BUS: Physical
Issues:
o Some businesses have an inappropriate location for people to be picked
up or dropped off by the Para bus
o (E.g. "Back in Motion” area marked private property, picked up where
other cars park, area crowded, diesel fumes create problems)
Recommended Action:
o When Para buses are picking up people at locations on a regular basis,
ensure that it is safe
o If not, renegotiate a safer location with business owner
Resources Required:
o Audit of problem locations
o Staff time to contact business owners to rectify situations
***BARRIER-PARKING: Physical
o Not enough or no disabled parking at many municipal buildings.
o Narrow handicapped parking spaces that do not accommodate ramps or
lifts.
Barrier Removal
o Audit the City’s handicapped parking spaces.
o Increase percentage of handicapped parking spaces (greater then the
1% mentioned in audit tool).
o Adopt Peterborough’s standard of 1 space per 20 vehicle spaces. Widen
spaces according to building code requirements.
Resources Required
o Use audit tool to audit handicapped parking spaces.
o Find funds to add more handicapped parking spaces.
o Consult with and report to AAC.
***BARRIER-PARKING: Policy
The $300 fine for using handicapped parking spaces illegally is not
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Transit
enough of a deterrent.
Barrier Removal
o Increase the fine to $500.
o By-Law 81-367 to be amended to increase fine.
Resources Required
o Municipal by-law change
o Communicate the change to the public.
o Fines from illegal parking in handicapped parking spaces to be used to
pay for accessibility related expenses.
***BARRIER-PARKING: Physical
Some handicapped parking signs are not consistent with the
Highway Traffic Act.
Barrier Removal
o All municipal parking lot signs have been changed to comply with the
Highway Traffic Act. Parking lot signs have been changed at the hospital,
Group Health Centre and Food Basics, but some local establishments still
have old signs
Resources Required
o Need funds for signs and installation.
o Consult with and report to AAC.
***BARRIER-PARKING: Policy
Fraudulent misuse of handicapped parking permits
Barrier Removal
o Create by-law so that individuals misusing handicapped parking permits
will be required to pay a $300 to $500 fine.
Resources Required
o Need a municipal by-law change.
o Communicate change to the public.
o Fines from misuse of parking permits to be used to pay for accessibility
related expenses
REGULAR TRANSIT
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Transit
***BARRIER: Attitudinal
Staff doesn’t fully understand the needs of people with disabilities.
o Some consumers have difficulty to communicate, which can create
problems and/or misunderstandings for both the staff member and
client.
o Some people have a disability that isn’t that obvious.
Barrier Removal
o Sensitivity training – February/2004 (ongoing once/yr. in conjunction
with current training.
o Sensitivity training component will be part of new staff orientation.
Resources Required
o Time required to research and develops effective sensitivity training
specifically related to transit.
o Additional time and funding for staff training.
o Volunteers to help with sensitivity training.
***BARRIER: Informational
o Communication with public about policy changes has been inadequate.
Barrier Removal
o Use corporate communications policy
o Have media releases in print and via PSA’s on Cable 10 (voice over),
MCTV (voice over) and radio.
o Develop ongoing communication with service agencies, clubs and
support groups for people with disabilities.
o Use the City’s web site (cityssm.on.ca).
o Use media’s web sites and other appropriate web sites.
Resources Required
o Staff time.
o Develop good communication between City’s Communication staff and
Transit to develop unified approach to communication strategies re:
Transit policy changes.
***Barrier: Physical
Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services Office, 111 Huron St., and the
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Transit
Queen St. Terminal require accessible restrooms.
Barrier Removal
o Audit restrooms in both locations using City’s audit tool.
o Install fully accessible restrooms where required.
Resources Required
o Give staff time to audit restrooms.
o Funds to install fully accessible restroom(s).
o Communicate changes to public in conjunction with City’s
Communication Officer in print and by other means.
***Barrier: Physical
There’s a lack of electric eye door openers at the entrance to Queen
St. Terminal and at 111 Huron St.
Barrier Removal
o Install electric eye door openers at both locations.
Resources Required
o Research the cost to install electric eye opening doors and get budget
approval for cost.
***Barrier: Physical/Visual
o New buses have small spaces for people in wheelchairs, particularly if
people sit on areas near the front, which aren’t regular seats.
o On new buses, location of buttons for notifying driver you want to be let
off are difficult to locate for people who are blind or visually impaired and
are also located up high.
Barrier Removal
o Design policy so that areas at front of bus are not used for passenger
seating.
o Investigate possibility of lowering push buttons and with better colour
contrast.
Resources Required
o Change policy.
o Consult with and report to AAC.
o Communicate changes with public in conjunction with City’s
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Transit
Communication Officer and corporate communications policy.
***Barrier: Physical
There is a lack of low-floor buses and low-floor buses which kneel
year around.
Barrier Removal
o Run low-floor buses in winter, except when conditions don’t allow.
o On a trial basis, consumers may dial a general inquiry number (759-
5438) and then #1 to find out if the low-floor buses will be able to kneel
that day.
o There’s a need to acquire more low-floor buses capable of kneeling year
around.
Resources Required
o Check out the cost of a new kneeling bus.
o Communicate new procedures developed in conjunction with City’s
Communication Officer and the corporate communications policy.
o Seek budget approval for funds.
***BARRIER: Informational
When Bus Stop Locations change, people with visual and invisible
disabilities are unaware of changes.
Barrier Removal
o Provide signs in large print and Braille.
o Communicate changes via radio, Cable 10 (voice over) and MCTV (voice
over).
Resources Required
o Communicate change with public in conjunction with City’s
Communication Officer in print and other means.
***Barrier: Attitudinal
Issues:
o In some buses, seats at the front of the bus which are supposed to be
reserved for the elderly and disabled aren't designated as such
Recommended Action:
o Sensitivity training for drivers so that they know the importance of these
seats being kept free for those who need them
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Transit
o Ensure signage on all buses indicates this designation
Resources Required:
o Staff time
o Signs
COMMUNITY BUS
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o Lack of information about Community bus, what route it follows, which
grocery store it stops at, how often it runs
Recommended Action:
o Better communication with the public about the Community bus
o Must be coordinated to meet the same standards as communication of
all city information
o Ensure that alternate forms of communication are utilized
***Barrier: Physical
Issues:
o The Community bus doesn't go to Brien, Poplar, McNabb St. and
therefore leaves out many people with disabilities
Recommended Action:
o Investigate changing the route of the Community bus so that it serves
more people
Resources Required:
o Cost to Transit Services
***BARRIER: Attitudinal
o There is a lack of consultation with Community Bus users.
o The Community Bus is only available two days a week.
o Routes could be improved
o The cost is a barrier for those on fixed incomes.
Barrier Removal
o Consult with Community Bus users, usually seniors and people with a
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Transit
disability.
o Increase the number of days Community Bus service is available.
o Review and improve community buss routes. Review bus routes with
regard to seniors’ buildings where people with a disability live.
o Have the bus go to Rome’s on the way from the terminal as well as the
way back in order to allow people time to do their grocery shopping and
catch the bus on the return trip.
o Add a stop on Northern Ave. near the Knights of Columbus buildings to
go directly to Zellers Plaza.
o The Community Bus should be free for seniors and those with a
disability.
Resources Required
o Research availability of funds to cover loss of revenue from bus fares if
service is offered free to seniors and those with a disability.
o Consult with and report to AAC.
Location: Transit Division - Sault Bus Terminal (Queen/Dennis)
***Barrier: Physical
Walkways are not very accessible
Issues:
o Lack of curb cuts for those traveling in wheelchairs
Recommended Action:
o Identify areas needing to be altered
Resources Required:
o Change curbs to curb cuts as sidewalks are scheduled to be repaired or
replaced
o Costs to be included as part of Public Works budget
***Barrier: Physical
Entrance doors are not very accessible
Issues:
o Doors are heavy for people in wheelchairs and the elderly
Recommended Action:
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Transit
o Doors to be replaced with motion sensor door openers
Resources Required:
o Cost to install motion sensor door openers
***Barrier: Physical
Restrooms are not very accessible
Issues:
o Toilets are too low,
o Grab bars needed on other side of toilets,
o Paper towel dispensers too high
Recommended Action:
o Increase height of toilets to 18 inches,
o Add grab bar on opposite side of toilet in each restroom
o Add pull down grab bar in each restroom,
o Lower paper towel dispensers
Resources Required:
o Costs to increase height of toilets,
o To add grab bars and for pull down grab bars
o To lower paper towel dispensers
***Barrier: Physical
No accessible roll under Fountain
Issues:
o Roll under fountain should be present for those in wheelchairs or water
cooler
Recommended Action:
o Install lower water fountain or water cooler
Resources Required:
o Cost of water fountain and cost for installation or cost for water cooler
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Transit
Review and Monitoring Process
On an annual basis, the Accessibility Advisory Committee will review the
barriers listed in the previous year’s plan to monitor the extent to which
barriers have been removed and prevented as described in the Accessibility
Plan.
Meetings with the Transit subcommittee of the Accessibility Advisory
Committee will continue throughout the year.
Communication of the Transit Services Accessibility Plan
The plan will be made available on the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s website
(cityssm.on.ca) and will be sent by e-mail or regular mail to those who wish
to receive a copy of the plan. In addition, through annual Transit marketing
programs (radio, T.V.), the plan will be advertised as available to those who
wish a copy.
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APPENDICES
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Appendix A - Accessibility Centre - Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma
” For all people of all abilities”
The Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma Accessibility Centre is one of the first
barrier free centres offering resources to everyone interested in universal
design standards and services. This centre is a unique concept as it
showcases accessibility to all members of the public since it is located in
highly utilized community sports complex.
The Accessibility Centre employees represent a diverse group of persons
with unique skills and expertise in all facets of accessibility including barrier
identification, universal design standards and principles, networking and
resource investigation. The staff has been involved in a number of barrier
removal projects with the City of Sault Ste. Marie, the District of Sault Ste.
Marie Social Services Administration Board, Sault College, The Sault Trails
Advisory Committee, various local agencies, as well as numerous
communities around the province seeking advice on accessibility planning.
The staff also provides information to individuals and families seeking
support and direction.
The City of Sault Ste. Marie, the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services
Administration Board, the Social Services Department, Human Resources
Skills Development Canada and the Ministry of Community and Social
Services have all provided significant support and leadership to the centre
that has set us apart as leaders in accessibility.
Agencies including March of Dimes, Canadian Hearing Society, Canadian
National Institute for the Blind, the United Way, the Arthritis Society, the
Algoma Consumer/Survivor Network, and Club 84 are some of the many
partners the centre has become involved with.
The Accessibility Centre and the Accessibility Advisory Committee contribute
to the community by:
o Assisting the municipality in its barrier removal activities and the
preparation of the annual Accessibility Plan
o Working with citizens and agencies locally and provincially regarding
accessibility issues and standards
o Identifying and recording barriers in our community and gaps in services
o Assisting organizations with information on fiscally responsible barrier
removal strategies
o Contributing to barrier removal projects locally
The Centre has also become the key conduit in linking other smaller public
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entities within the District by assisting them in the development of their
accessibility plans. The Accessibility Centre has saved public and private
entities countless hours thus, not having to “re-invent the wheel.”
Together we are Learning, Working, Participating, and Building a Strong
Inclusive Barrier Free Community.
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Appendix B - Barrier Free in Algoma Association
Mission Statement and Organizational Objectives
Mission Statement:
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will work to improve the quality of life of
persons with disabilities living in Algoma. They will work to improve
accessibility for the persons with disabilities in the communities of the
Algoma District by creating awareness of visible and invisible barriers faced
by persons who are disabled, to educate the public of the untapped potential
of persons with disabilities to fully participate in all areas of society and to
improve and expand opportunities to fully participate in society by
expanding services and supports for the persons with disabilities in the
community.
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will work in partnership with all
community organizations involved in providing services to persons with
disabilities and their families within the community. Barrier Free in Algoma
Association will work within the principles of co-operation, collaboration,
respect, accountability, and accessibility.
Improved Accessibility
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will work with the three levels of
government, the private sector as well as social and health organizations to
improve physical, technological, economic and organizational access to
enable persons with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of society
and to have their specific needs met in a timely and dignified manner.
Barrier Free in Algoma Association would like to become a Centre of
excellence within Algoma to provide information and access to the latest
technologies for persons with disabilities.
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will administer an “ ACCESS FUND” to
assist small business and groups who administer rural remote public
buildings to improve their physical accessibility.
Economic Resource Development
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will help persons with disabilities achieve
there economic and employment potential in the community.
This may include, but not be limited to, supporting affirmative action
initiatives, working with government to address structural barriers, provide
up to date information regarding employment support programs and
subsidies and make available information for potential employers about
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employing persons with disabilities.
Financial Assistance/Fund Raising
Barrier Free Algoma Association will develop and make available an up to
date inventory of financial assistance options for the persons with disabilities
to assist them in meeting their special needs as well as access. Barrier Free
Algoma Association may seek out sponsorship from a variety of sources for
it’s specific objectives (Example, private sponsorship for a recreational event
specifically for persons with disabilities).
Barrier Free Algoma Association, as a non profit organization, will develop a
realistic financial plan which will include fundraising, a funding strategy for
the various aspects of its’ business. The Board of Directors will oversee
financial accountability for the organization’s activities and outcomes.
Education
Barrier Free Algoma Association will develop an inventory of information for
persons with disabilities and their family members regarding services and
supports available in Algoma as well as in other communities.
Barrier Free Algoma Association will develop an inventory of products for the
purposes of professional development for professionals who work regularly
with persons with disabilities, sensitivity training products for dealing with
persons with disabilities for the service industry, information about Barrier
Free design for local business and government,
Recreation
Barrier Free Algoma Association would like to see expanded opportunities for
persons with disabilities to become involved in recreational and sports
activities.
This may include, but not be limited to, specialized training for coaches
working with athletes who are disabled, increase the number of sports and
recreational activities available for the persons with disabilities to improve
access to municipal, provincial and national parks.
Where interest has been expressed, Barrier Free in Algoma Association will
facilitate partnerships and linkages to expand recreational opportunities.
Service Expansion/Improvement of Services
Barrier Free in Algoma Association will complete an inventory of services
available for persons with disabilities throughout the District of Algoma;
identify gaps and limitations and work with community organizations, the
private sector and various levels of government to improve services and
access to services.
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This may include, but not be limited to, improvements to educational
opportunities and institutions, employment opportunities, transportation
services, housing, peer support, respite care, family support, medical
services, servicing and repairs to assistive devices
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Appendix C - Recommendations to the Province
Provincial Standards
The province needs to develop and implement Ontario wide universal design
standards to be used in building construction and renovation, in web site
design and in the design of accessible goods and services.
Co-Op and Non-Profit housing - Accessible Housing Units
There needs to be one standard definition and guidelines for accessible
housing units across the province based on the principle of universal design.
The province needs to take a leadership role in allocating funding to put
these in place.
Best practices in communities throughout Ontario should be used as models
and highlighted for other communities to use in their planning processes.
Boards which run Co-op and Non-Profit Housing need sensitivity training to
help them better understand the challenges and frustrations of living with a
disability.
Accessibility Plans
Should be approved by municipalities at the time they are planning their
budgets close to the end of the fiscal year so that barrier removal projects
can be adequately planned for with budget considerations.
Private Sector
Businesses should be offered incentives, such as is offered to the energy
sector (sales tax holiday), to make their premises barrier-free.
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a
Universal Design Principles – Waterloo Region
http://www.waterlooregion.org//spc/trends/disabilities/design.html
b
Zap! A Playground Becomes Accessible to Everyone
http://www.equalopportunity.on.ca/eng_g/subject/index.asp?action=search_7&file_id=234
71
c
Paint the Town Yellow – Town of Innisfil
http://www.innisfil.ca/accessibility/index.php
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