By Chad Feehan / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
After two years of working on it, the City of Mount Pearl has unveiled its 2024-2026 Accessibility Plan.
During this past week's council meeting, councillor Mark Rice outlined some key points of what he described as a “living document” that will be updated through its three-year tenure.
“This plan is the accumulation of the extensive work of countless individuals of our community including staff, residents, advocates, associations, and persons with disabilities,” Rice said.
“There is no doubt that we are committed to accessibility because part of the accessibility plan for the city includes creating accessible boardrooms at City Hall and plans for an accessible stage at the Reid Community Centre and Glacier Arena to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to engage with community events.”
In the document, Mayor Dave Aker noted there is an estimated 4,800 people in the city who face challenges impacting their freedom of movement, independence, or quality of life.
“This is why creating a barrier-free and inclusive community is a top priority for our City Council and staff,” he wrote.
Other goals mentioned in the plan include equitable access to amenities such as the T’railway, support for disability groups, and a commitment to an inclusive and diverse workforce where accommodations are provided in line with the Human Rights Act.
“A great city is one where everyone regardless of age, ability, or background can actively participate in the community,” said Rice. “As council, we are committed to developing an inclusive community that ensures all individuals have access to Mount Pearl’s programs, services and spaces in a way that respects their dignity and independence.”
City Clerk Stephanie Walsh took the time to thank Kathy Walsh, executive director of Inclusion NL, for her contribution to the plan.
“She was integral in assisting us with this plan,” Walsh said. “She took the lead in one of our discussion groups that we had with the committee. Being the expert in accessibility and accessibility needs, she really guided our way through it.”
Many residents also helped, providing feedback on the draft and ideas for accountability measures they’d like to see implemented.
Councillor Jim Locke highlighted the City’s previous accomplishments in the realm of accessibility, including auditory signals on crosswalk lights, and other adjustments to crosswalks to allow for safer and easier access.
“Mount Pearl has always had a vision of increasing accessibility, but this gives us a formalized plan, and a key component of the plan is education,” Locke said. “You do the best you can until you know better, but when you know better, you do better. I think this council and our staff embraces that.”
Other achievements noted in the plan include the St. David’s Park ‘Smart Accessible Playground’ and washroom, a weekly sensor-friendly public swim at the Summit Centre, and the presence of two inclusion workers at the City’s summer camp program, which is free of charge to the participants.
The City has also committed to conducting an audit to identify barriers to accessing public spaces, technology or information.
