Potential accessibility projects discussed by advisory committee

A trio of potential accessibility projects have been discussed and prioritized by the advisory committee on the subject.

The Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee discussed a trio of projects they can aim to have accomplished by National Accessibility Week. Two of the projects prioritized by the committee were improvements along Briar Ridge Dr. and paved parking spots in the area of the pickleball courts at the Libro Centre. 

Regarding the latter, clerk Kevin Fox noted to pave and create two paved spots on the gravel area could cost upwards of $10,000 per spot. He believed there could be potential savings that might bring down that cost, such as drainage and other works already being done.

“We do see a lot of engagement on that site,” he said.

Fox pointed out the distance between that area of the lot and the existing accessible spots by the arena, adding the gravel lot in question is also overflow parking for major events in the building.

The changes along Briar Ridge Dr. would be in the area of Briar Ridge Park and cost about $500, Fox estimated. That would include painting an accessible spot near the park and dealing with administrative work regarding bylaw amendments regarding parking in the area.

“There’s no designated accessible parking,” Fox said, in the area of the park.

Committee chair Shirley Curson-Prue asked if the committee would be paying for these projects out of its budget or if it goes to town council. Fox said recommendations would be forwarded to council and funded through AODA funding, with a larger project to be funded in a similar manner.

Councillor Don McArthur, a council liaison to the committee, said the low cost of $500 was “a given” for the committee. He also favoured the Libro Centre option, noting the use of the pickleball courts.

“The Libro Centre is a showcase for accessibility already,” he said.

The third option will go onto the committee’s “to do” list, with that being an accessible, paved parking spot at Warren Mickle Park. The spot would go into a lot located off of McLeod Ave.

The cost for that is roughly $10,000. Fox said there is a compacted gravel lot that meets accessible standards, but the pavement would add additional stability for those who need it with accessible vehicles.

“It is identified as an eco-park,” he said. 

Potential accessibility projects discussed by advisory committee

By Ron Giofu