Rossland accessibility plan

Happy Cities and Meaningful Access Consulting are working together to create a new accessibility plan for the City of Rossland, BC.

Downtown Rossland, BC. (Kyle Pearce / Flickr)

Happy Cities and Meaningful Access Consulting are working with the City of Rossland to create a new Accessibility Plan to make life better for everyone in Rossland—regardless of age, background, or ability. The plan aims to ensure that everyone is able to fully join in community life, by removing barriers to access in City spaces, programs, and services.

To hear from the community, we are offering several ways to give input, including online and paper surveys, and in-person and online focus group discussions. Visit the City of Rossland website to learn more about ways to participate.

Accessibility legislation in BC

The Plan responds to the Accessible British Columbia Act. According to the Act, accessibility:

• Means that all people can take part in their communities through work, play and other daily activities

• Is important for everyone, especially people with disabilities

• Is about removing barriers and increasing inclusion and independence for everyone

Barriers to accessibility are not only physical, but include all societal barriers, such as technology, digital access, and people’s attitudes towards people with disabilities.

What’s included in the accessibility plan?

The Plan will guide all City departments, reinforcing Rossland’s commitment to advancing accessibility and ensuring the full participation of its residents and visitors in all aspects of community life. The Rossland Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Committee has prioritized the following areas for to address:

• Programs and services (including recreation and social activities and registration)

• Policies (including municipal employment, communications, procurement, and general policies)

• Built spaces (including new builds and updates to existing buildings, both City-owned and private)

• Transportation

• Accessibility advocacy, relating specifically to:

  • Health services

  • Education

  • Transit