Two more parks will be more accessible for people with disabilities after a successful pilot project was launched last summer on Departure Bay beach.
City of Nanaimo parks and recreation manager Charlotte Davis says the mats are seasonally installed and make it easier for those bound to mobility devices to access the beach area.
“It is all about accessibility to water,” she says. “Access becomes increasingly difficult when it comes to beaches and lakes, so these mats can make it a reality for those who need it.”
According to Davis the city has been working on developing the project for over a year, she says after the pilot mat was launched at Departure Bay beach which allowed the city to look at expanding into Colliery Dam Park, Neck Point Park and Loudon Park.
“We got lots of feedback about residents wanting to see more mats,” Davis says. “Some suggested other locations, which allowed us to go ahead and roll out an extra three mats this year.”
Photo credit: Supplied
Davis says the mats, in general, have cost the city just over $30,000 but with she adds a generous donation from the Colliery Dam Park Preservation Society was instrumental in expanding the project.
“The length of the mat used at Colliery Dam was covered by the donation,” she says. “It was generous of them to donate to provide a great space for everyone.”
Davis says although the mats were tested at Departure Bay, one of the steepest locations, she is still advising those with mobility issues to have someone on hand to help them navigate the mats.
Photo credit: Supplied
“Everyone has different mobility needs, and I would highly suggest people go down with a guide to help them potentially get back up,” she says.
Mayor Leonard Krog said in a media release he praises the installation of the mats and helping anyone with mobility issues is beneficial to improving their quality of life.
“It is helpful for those in wheelchairs, strollers or those with wagons or kayak trailers,” he said. “I am sure they will be well used by many members of our community.”
