This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document.
Snapshot d71edb33455f · verified 2026-06-05 ·
original document ·
archived snapshot ·
unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.
Cape Breton Regional Municipality + You. Moving Accessibility
Forward.
Final Accessibility Action Plan for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM)
Submitted by: reachAbility Association
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Summary Overview .......................................................................................... 4
1.2 Territory Acknowledgment ................................................................................. 5
2.0 Overview
2.1 Methodology ................................................................................................................. 6
A. Inclusion In Action ................................................................................... 6
B. RHFAC Lens ............................................................................................... 7
3.0 Standards & Benchmarks
3.1 Goods and Services .......................................................................................... 8
3.2 Built Environment ............................................................................................... 8
3.3 Information and Communications ...................................................................... 8
3.4 Awareness and Capacity Building ..................................................................... 8
3.5 Transportation .............................................................................................................. 8
3.6 Employment ................................................................................................................. 8
4.0 Community Engagement
4.1 Summary ...................................................................................................................... 9
4.2 Campaign ..................................................................................................................... 9
A. Take the Survey ............................................................................................ 10
B. Join the Discussion ....................................................................................... 10
C. Show Us How ................................................................................................... 10
5.0 Standards of Accessibility - Engagement Analysis
5.1 Preface ......................................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Goods & Services .............................................................................................. 14
5.3 Built Environment ............................................................................................... 17
5.4 Information and Communication ........................................................................ 20
5.5 Awareness and Capacity Building ..................................................................... 23
5.6 Transportation .............................................................................................................. 26
5.7 Employment ................................................................................................................. 29
6.0 Built Environment Accessibility Scan
6.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................... 31
6.2 Mapping Engagement........................................................................................ 34
6.3 Community Halls and Centres, and Recreation Centres .................................. 39
6.4 Municipal Buildings ............................................................................................ 42
6.5 Libraries ............................................................................................................. 45
6.6 Parks & Playgrounds ......................................................................................... 47
6.7 Trails ............................................................................................................................. 49
6.8 Fire Halls & Police Stations ............................................................................... 51
6.9 Sidewalks, Storefronts, Signs, Public Offices ................................................... 52
6.10 ...................................................................................................................... Tourist
Attractions & High Traffic Areas ......................................................................... 53
3
7.0 Specific Built Environment Barriers
7.0 Overview ............................................................................................................ 56
8.0 Timeline vs. Priority Phasing
8.1 Immediate (within the next two years) .............................................................. 79
8.2 Short Term (within 2-6 years) ............................................................................ 80
8.3 Opportunity Based Recommendations .............................................................. 81
Gratitude ............................................................................................................................82
9.1 Appendix
9.2 Glossary of Terms ............................................................................................. 83
9.3 Stairs ............................................................................................................................86
9.4 Accessible Interior Routes ................................................................................. 94
9.5 Parking .........................................................................................................................100
9.6 Ramps ..........................................................................................................................105
9.7 Washrooms ..................................................................................................................114
9.8 Seating .........................................................................................................................130
9.9 Elevators ......................................................................................................................133
9.10 ...................................................................................................................... Acces
sible Boat Launches ........................................................................................... 139
10.0 Resources
10.1 Funding and Community Based Resources ................................................... 140
10.2 Training & Education........................................................................................ 144
4
1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.2 SUMMARY OVERVIEW
Accessibility is a human right. The equal rights of a person are denied by making
access difficult. As identified by Access by Design 2030, the first step towards achieving
accessibility goals is through awareness and capacity building for the rights of persons
with disabilities and/or people facing barriers to full participation. It is easy to get stuck in
the old ways of doing things, which are rooted in ableist mindsets and structures.
However, change is happening, and we believe the Cape Breton Regional Municipality
(CBRM) will help set the bar for other Municipal regions across the province.
Nova Scotia has the highest rate in Canada of people identifying as a person with a
disability with nearly one in three people who live with a disability, the most common of
which are invisible, cognitive disabilities. There are many types of disabilities which
include: physical, mental, intellectual, learning and sensory impairment, including
episodic disability, that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders an individual's full and
effective participation. The research and recommendations to follow address universal
accessibility improvements for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and attempt to
include the spectrum and experiences of all disabilities. For the purpose of this report,
when referring to the Cape Breton Regional Municipality it may be referred to as the
CBRM.
The research and community engagement strategy for this report took place during the
Covid-19 Global Pandemic, which further heightened access and equity issues for
everyone. From the individuals and stakeholder groups we were able to connect with,
we heard that accessibility issues were exacerbated due to increased poverty, social
isolation, and lack of transportation, all of which further affected mental and physical
health. The results of our community engagement are included throughout this report.
We would like to commend the Cape Breton Regional Municipality on its work as a
region to address accessibility and inclusion for its community as the Province of Nova
Scotia begins its work towards the 2030 Access by Design: Achieving an Accessible
Nova Scotia goal. Throughout this report, we refer to Bill 59, also known as the Nova
Scotia Accessibility Legislation, including the recommendations put forth by the working
groups for the Built Environment and Education Standards, and the Nova Scotia
Post-Secondary Accessibility Framework created by the Council of Nova Scotia
University Presidents and the Nova Scotia Community College. We also include and/or
reference the Government of Canada's Accessible Canada Act, and the Rick Hansen
Foundation Accessibility Certification built environment standards.
In order to involve as much of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality as possible we
reached out to stakeholder groups and community members in all twelve districts to
identify possible solutions to the future of access and inclusion. The responses were
honest and rooted in frustration but optimistic.
We recognize that the Cape Breton Regional Municipality has a number of plans and
goals in place. The purpose of this report is to provide recommendations based on
first-voice, community feedback, and legislation while acknowledging the work that has
5
already been done. The solutions to achieving accessibility and inclusion will require
resources, human and capital, but they have the capacity to be transformative for the
Cape Breton Regional Municipality. We hope that this report provides starting points to
achieving goals, and delineating the steps in between to help you get there. It has been
our pleasure to assist you with this work.
Accessibility Advisory Committee's (AAC) Goals:
-
Create a mechanism for continued learning and capacity building.
-
To ensure equitable access for all.
-
Create a culture of acceptance and awareness.
-
Collaborate with other regions and advisory committees to share best practices.
The AAC is committed to accessibility, equity and inclusion of all people regardless of
ability, race, culture, gender, sexual identity and/or expression, family status, religion or
age. To support this commitment reachAbility has been engaged as experts with first
voice, lived experience and a robust knowledge of accessibility issues, best practices,
legislative requirements, social equity and planning processes to ensure that a
comprehensive framework will guide the development of accessibility initiatives and
establish priorities across the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
1.3 TERRITORIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Ancestral or Traditional Territory refers to the land occupied by First Nations people and
their ancestors. reachAbility Association resides within K'jipuktuk, and the Cape Breton
Regional Municipality resides within Unama'kik, the ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaq
people. This territory is protected by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, signed in
1752 between the Mi'kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy and the British Crown. This
territory is known as Mi'kma'ki and was divided traditionally into seven districts:
Kespukwitk, Sipekni'katik, Eskikewa'kik, Unama'kik, Epekwitk aq Piktuk, Siknikt, and
Kespek.
We acknowledge that our work and organizations are located within unceded and
unsurrendered Mi'kmaq Territory that we all have a responsibility and accountability to
uphold in the process of Truth and Reconciliation. We are all treaty people. There is
much to do in terms of reconciliation and building meaningful dialogue, partnerships and
opportunities to mend historical injustices and present day inequalities. We aim, through
our work and our lives, to continue to better educate ourselves on what this means, and
how we must use the many opportunities and privileges we are afforded to address the
importance of place, equity, sustainability, peace and understanding. We celebrate
diversity and believe that understanding the intersectionalities that occur within the
Cape Breton Regional Municipality is key to a truly inclusive culture.
6
2.1 OVERVIEW
2.2 METHODOLOGY
A. Inclusion In Action Lens
As an accessibility support organization, reachAbility Association helps guide
businesses, organizations and public sector bodies through the process of creating an
accessibility action plan compliant with government legislation, and in building
leadership in accessibility, diversity and inclusion. The process of Inclusion In Action
addresses accessibility through an inclusion and diversity lens driven by first-person
voice and ensures alignment with the Province of Nova Scotia's "Accessibility Planning
Toolkit for Municipalities". With extensive public consultation this creates an accessibility
action plan to align with both Access by Design 2030 and the Nova Scotia Accessibility
Legislation (Bill 59).
Consultation with client organization and identified groups
-
Worked strategically through various meetings with the Accessibility Advisory
Committee (AAC) to review the plan and methodology for the project; and
discuss critical goals.
-
Reviewed strategic documents from the CBRM's ie. policies, programs, services,
practices and any additional documentation to assist in our understanding of the
CBRM's efforts within accessibility, and through a data analysis we identified
achievements, barriers and opportunities for improved accessibility and inclusion.
First-Person Voice
-
Surveyed the community both online and in person to gain the perspective of
lived experience.
-
Engaged the public through twelve online sessions in addition to stakeholder
group meetings and individual conversations with community members by
phone, zoom and in person.
-
Opportunities were provided, online and/or in person, for community participation
in providing feedback on the built environment in the five areas within the CBRM.
This was done through our online #CBRMaccess photovoice campaign and
in-person mapping activities where barriers, successes and opportunities were
identified throughout the CBRM.
Strategic Review
-
Reviewed feedback from engagement sessions.
-
Revisited critical goals and compared them to the identified issues highlighted
from engagement.
-
Reviewed the built infrastructure/environment of the organization's assets.
-
Based on the strategic review, created a draft Accessibility Action Plan to present
to the AAC and to the community through public engagement sessions, both
online and in person, according to NS Health Guidelines.
Action Plan Delivery
-
We will gather and review stakeholder/public feedback from the draft accessibility
action plan and determine, based on legislative requirements and the
Municipality's goals, what to include in the final accessibility action plan.
7
-
We will deliver the CBRM Accessibility Action Plan with deliverables including:
prioritized timelines; capital asset lists with priorities, phasing and resources.
Additional Recommendations & Resources
-
We will identify topics for continued learning for all organizational levels.
-
We will identify areas of opportunity for improved accessibility and inclusion
through stakeholder partnership
-
We will identify funding and grant opportunities to: offset Cape Breton Regional
Municipality costs with action plan implementation, and provide resources for
businesses, organizations and individuals within the municipality to work towards
a sustainable accessibility within the community.
B. Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) Lens
(RHFAC) is a lens through which to assess accessibility. https://www.rickhansen.com
RHFAC ensures people with disabilities have direct input into the vision and details of
how to create truly inclusive places. RHFAC has a rating and certification process
designed by people with disabilities to allow for transparency, accountability and
measurable data. RHFAC and Universal Design are interdependent. Universal Design is
the design of public buildings, products and environments to make them accessible to
all people regardless of age, disability or other factors. This ensures that human rights,
compassion, democracy, and access are all at the forefront in the public realm. In order
to create a sustainable, fully participatory community, Universal Design must be met to
ensure access and inclusion.
Our team conducted an environment scan of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality
using the RHFAC lens. We did not conduct a National Building Code (NBC) review. It is
important to note that RHFAC often has standards that are different from the NBC.
While all aspects of a renovation or new build must meet the NBC, meeting RHFAC
standards would be ideal. We used some of the major principles of RHFAC as a guide
to highlight where the needs for improvements are, as well as identify efforts and
successes as per the scope of this Accessibility Action Plan.
8
3.1 STANDARDS & BENCHMARKS
In order to give feedback and assist in creating an accessibility action plan for the region
we reviewed the programs, policies, services and built environments of the Region and
addressed the following six standards of accessibility. As identified in the Access By
Design 2030 framework, it is imperative to also address Awareness and Capacity
Building to move forward and truly be inclusive, for this purpose we have included
Awareness and Capacity Building along with the other legislative standards. These
standards are based on the, currently in development, Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill
59), and the Accessible Canada Act, as listed below:
3.2 Goods and Services
-
Bill 59: standards for delivering and receiving goods and services may address
how service providers interact with and are trained to serve persons with
disabilities, including the use of assistive devices.
-
Accessible Canada Act: Service Design & Delivery: receive services that are
accessible to all.
3.3 Built Environment
-
Bill 59: standards in this area will address how to make buildings, streets,
sidewalks, and shared spaces accessible to all. These standards may address
gaps in current regulations.
-
Accessible Canada Act: move freely around buildings and public spaces.
3.4 Information and Communications
-
Bill 59: Requires institutions to ensure all Nova Scotians can receive and share
the same information. Consider accessible formats (for example, braille,
American Sign Language, or large print), accessible websites and technologies,
and standards for communicating with persons with disabilities.
-
Accessible Canada Act: Requires accessible digital content and technologies,
barrier free spaces and services for people with communication disabilities.
3.5 Awareness and Capacity Building:
-
Access By Design 2030: building capacity in accessibility and increasing
awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and barriers to
participation.
3.6 Transportation
-
Bill 59: public transportation and transportation infrastructure: standards in this
area will help make it easier for everyone to travel throughout rural and urban
Nova Scotia.
-
Accessible Canada Act: barrier-free federal transportation network.
3.7 Employment
-
Bill 59: standards in this area will support persons with disabilities in finding
meaningful employment. The goal is to ensure equal access to employment for
persons with disabilities.
-
Accessible Canada Act: access to employment opportunities and accessible
workplaces.
9
4.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
In 2010, Canada ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities (CRPD) committing to rid the country of barriers that prevent people with
disabilities from fully enjoying their human rights. "Nothing Without Us" , the Accessible
Canada Act, carries this commitment through legislation and ensures first-voice
contributions. First-person knowledge is key to understanding the causes of
inaccessibility and has guided our process in identifying barriers within the Cape Breton
Regional Municipality and offering recommendations to ensure equity, diversity and
inclusion is achieved for all.
4.2 SUMMARY
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is a very diverse community with a challenging
geographic layout that combines the urban centre of Sydney with widespread rural
areas, national historic sites and many industrial growth possibilities. Despite this
diversity in landscape and community, there are many shared needs and concerns.
However, even with these similar shared interests, there is a physical disconnect due to
the lack of connectivity between neighbourhoods, communities and towns. In reviewing
this report, it will become clear that the community at large feels the need for pedestrian
pathways, active transportation, and public transportation. We believe that through the
implementation of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality's Accessibility Action Plan, the
upcoming CBRM Active Transportation Plan and the many strategic growth plans that
are in the works, progress can and will be made. For the purpose of providing
feedback/findings for each accessibility standard, we have used the first-voice
experiences collected through the Moving Accessibility Forward project. These
first-voice experiences have also guided the recommendations offered throughout.
4.3 CAMPAIGN
In an effort to engage the communities of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality,
reachAbility created a social media campaign titled Cape Breton Regional
Municipality + You. Moving Accessibility Forward. Additionally, a landing page was
created for the overall project, and individual pages for each respective areas' campaign
were made accessible both on their own or through the project landing page - which can
be viewed by visiting www.reachability.org/cbrmandyou
The targeted social media campaign was used to promote the project through
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The campaign reached over 14,000 individuals (saw
the awareness campaign on their social media platforms); 76 shares (people shared the
content on their social media platforms), and 551 people visited the project landing
page.
Due to COVID-19 public gathering restrictions, extended online, phone, as well as small
gathering or individual engagement sessions were offered in addition to in-person public
engagement options. The project's engagement process offered three methods for
community members to get involved.
10
A) TAKE THE SURVEY
An online survey was created based on the accessibility standards and how they pertain
to the region's programs, services, built environment and communication. The survey
was circulated online through the social media campaign, posted on the landing page
and available physically at our in-person engagements throughout the Cape Breton
Regional Municipality.
The public survey has been open since February 7th, 2022 and will continue through to
April 4th, 2022. Throughout this report we have provided summarized information based
on the surveys received thus far. Of the survey results we received, 15% of the
respondents did not identify which District they reside in.
- 15% were from Districts 4 & 7
- 19% were from District 5
- 8 % were from Districts 6, 10 & 11
- 12% were from District 8
No surveys were received from those who identified as residing in, or being connected
to, Districts 1, 2, 3, 9 or 12. We continue to try to engage these areas through further
promotional activities within the region.
B) JOIN THE DISCUSSION
Throughout February, 3 in-person and 12 virtual engagement sessions were hosted
inviting community members to join the discussion and have their voice heard to help
inspire change in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality as they work toward their
inclusion and accessibility goals. Additionally, individual zoom meetings and/or phone
calls have been, and continue to be, booked with stakeholder groups and anyone who
could not attend the various virtual meetings. These sessions are moderated by Jessica
Ward and Krista O'Connor of the reachAbility team and supported by ASL (American
Sign Language) interpreters when requested.
The conversations throughout these sessions highlighted the gaps in accessibility and
inclusion with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and identified the many strategies
that have been or are currently being applied to remove barriers. We spoke with many
disability and marginalized community support groups, individual citizens, youth with
disabilities and their parents and community advocates.
C) SHOW US HOW
Community members were invited to help us inspire change by participating in an
in-person mapping exercise and sharing, through photovoice, their perspective on
barriers, opportunities and successes in the CBRM built environment through the
#CBRMaccess campaign.
During our three in-person engagement sessions participants were provided with pink,
blue and yellow sticky notes and were asked to tell us:
-
what is working (success)
-
what's not working (barrier)
-
to share with us how they could envision things working better (opportunities),
and
11
-
when doing so, to consider how they travel to, from, and throughout the CBRM
By posting photos and comments on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram
and Twitter with the hashtag #CBRMaccess, participants were able to share areas
within their communities that required highlighting for one of the aforementioned
reasons. Participants in this piece of feedback are also entered into a draw for a $200
gift card from a local CBRM business for sharing their valuable first-voice experience on
the built environment and how it plays a part in the way they live, work, play or go to
school, in the Region.
12
5.1 STANDARDS OF ACCESSIBILITY - ENGAGEMENT ANALYSIS
PREFACE
"Under the Accessibility Act, municipalities, universities, and other organizations--
including villages, regional libraries, and government agencies--may be prescribed as
public sector bodies. (Prescribed means identified in the Accessibility Act General
Regulations.) Once prescribed, these organizations--including municipalities and
villages--must establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee and develop an
Accessibility Action Plan." (2019, Province of Nova Scotia)1 As per the recommended
format offered by the Province of Nova Scotia in the Accessibility Plan Toolkit for
Prescribed Public Sector Bodies, the feedback from our engagement efforts has been
summarized into seven components for each of the seven standards. Below we have
provided a brief explanation/purpose of each component as identified in the
aforementioned document.
Commitment: In this component, we will suggest a vision statement that aligns with the
direction set out by the public sector body when it comes to inclusion, diversity, and
equity.
Current Services Offered: The purpose of identifying the services currently offered by
the prescribed public sector body is to provide the reader with a starting point. As a 3rd
party organization, we do not know every aspect of the public sector bodies' services,
programs etc. We create a list based on information we are provided at the time of
information gathering and/or what information is publicly available.
Overview: The overview component is meant to provide a summary of the feedback
received, highlight specific points that were brought up through engagement and/or
provide honourable mentions of key points.
Successes (What We Heard): An important part of the accessibility action planning
process is to highlight the many successes or achievements that have been made
to-date in identifying, preventing and removing barriers by/within the prescribed public
sector body. This section provides a summary of what we heard from stakeholders
throughout the project. This component does not include a comprehensive list of
successes or achievements made by the organization.
Barriers (What We Heard): As above, this component will include a summary of what
we heard from stakeholders and does not include a comprehensive list of barriers faced
in every aspect of the organization. This component will focus on a compilation of the
identified barriers that pertain to each of the seven standards as listed in Section 3 of
this document.
Benchmarks: For the purpose of this report we have used the benchmarks component
to offer suggestions for policy changes and/or adaptations based on the feedback
received through our engagement process as well as the information provided by the
Province of Nova Scotia about the Accessibility Act, its standards that are in
1 reference for direct quote https://novascotia.ca/accessibility/public-sector-bodies-toolkit.asp
13
development, and the framework for implementation set out through the Access By
Design 2030 Plan.
Opportunities/Recommendations: Prescribed Public Sector Bodies are obligated to
ensure first voice and lived experience is considered throughout the implementation of
the accessibility action plan. This component provides recommendations on how to take
actionable steps toward achieving the benchmarks and the organizational commitments
for each standard. This is done by engaging people with disabilities, diverse
communities as well as other resources available in the community through
organizations that work with and support members of equity seeking groups.
14
5.2 GOODS AND SERVICES
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to ensure all residents and visitors have
equitable access to goods and services provided by the Municipality.
Current Services Offered:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality currently offers these goods and services:
-
Maintaining most parks, trails and playgrounds and responsible for the
installation, maintenance and snow removal services of most roads and
sidewalks within Municipal limits.
-
Maintains the CBRM Water Utility.
-
Receives payments for property taxes and utilities.
-
Hosts Municipal Council meetings.
-
Emergency services through the Cape Breton Regional Fire & Emergency
Services (Police and Fire).
-
Recreational programming.
-
Manages and operates Transit Cape Breton.
Survey Overview:
Of the services identified as most frequently accessed, businesses and services such
as restaurants or bars and barber shops/hair salons stood out as the most frequented
privately owned services (average 71% across all responses). These services were also
identified as the least accessible privately owned services. Of the municipal
owned/operated services identified as frequently accessed, recreation (pools, sports
centres, playgrounds, trails etc.) and educational services (libraries and schools) were
most common (average 69% across all responses). However, when asked to identify
what the least accessible services were, public transportation and recreation were
highlighted. Respondents stated they found it difficult to choose which service was least
accessible as there were aspects of each service that made them inaccessible. Many
comments mentioned the lack of accessibility at public parks and that the lack of safe
sidewalks makes getting to any of the services difficult for most.
Successes (What We Heard):
-
There have been some accessibility considerations made in the various libraries
and there is a provincial plan coming to ensure that all libraries improve their
accessibility
-
CBRM is supporting a community group in the development of the Municipality
owned Hawks Field as a fully accessible baseball field, walking track, bocce
court, splash pad and canteen amenities.
-
CBRM is currently partnered with the Health Authority on an accessible Bike
Loan program.
-
Delivering the Adapt Program that provides recreation and physical activities for
all ages and abilities.
-
The Recreation Department offers a variety of free and paid programs and
services, including accessible activities like sledge hockey and an accessible
sailing regatta. CBRM has provided support for capital upgrades and for events
that celebrate accessibility. Additionally, they offer funding and in-kind programs
for hundreds of individuals and community organizations.
15
-
Most communities have at least one playground offering activities for free play
-
The CBRM provides both Transit Cape Breton and
-
Handi-Trans as options for transportation throughout many areas of the CBRM.
-
There is more access to some services for people with disabilities and/or limited
transportation since the onset of the COVID pandemic due to the expansion of
some delivery service areas.
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
The parks, playgrounds and outdoor spaces don't provide options for all ages ie.
senior friendly exercise equipment, adult sized accessible swings, family
engaging activities for year round use.
-
There is not enough inclusive programming, events and services offered by
CBRM Recreation. Gaps in services adaptive equipment available through loan
programs; guided programs using the trails and parks.
-
There aren't many community building activities to bring community groups and
individuals together that don't involve going for a walk. Physically demanding
activities cause barriers.
-
Access to all essential items are not available in all areas which weighs heavily
on those who are low-income and/or on fixed incomes without transportation.
-
The operating hours of many necessary services like libraries (internet access)
and recycling and solid waste facilities makes it difficult for many to access them.
-
Accessible transit is not consistently available during the hours that are needed
to access services, they are only available during their set schedule which makes
accessing many services impossible for people with disabilities.
Benchmarks:
-
Ensure services required by residents and visitors are accessible to them.
This includes being physically accessible at publicly accessed spaces like parks,
playgrounds and trails.
-
Ensure equal opportunity for play for everyone. Consider offering "Play
Boxes" at various park locations that provide free, adaptive play items to promote
unstructured recreation activity. Ensure there are options for organized sport and
recreational activities for all socio-economic groups.
-
Promote acceptance by implementing an accessibility policy for all new
business/builds or renovations. Shopping and retail establishments were
identified as the most accessed and the least accessible spaces which highlights
the need for an accessibility policy for businesses. Create a culture of
acceptance by providing incentives for those businesses and service providers
who abide by the policy instead of fining for non-compliance. Support businesses
in the area in sourcing funding support to assist with the required accessibility
updates/changes.
-
Ensure equitable access to all public services, in all regions. Extend the
hours for public services like libraries (providing internet access), solid waste,
recycling, bill payments etc. by extending into evenings/mornings or weekends.
For the Balefill Facility, an after hours drop off spot would be sufficient.
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Work with disability support agencies within the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality to begin to build capacity and awareness around inclusion and
16
accessibility for all. This should include implementing inclusive programming with
partners' support and guidance.
-
Create a standard for accessible service delivery that holds accountable all
providers who work within the Cape Breton Regional Municipality until the
Province develops a government-wide accessible customer service policy as
identified in Nova Scotia's Accessibility Plan (2018-2021).
-
Partner with Nova Scotia Works offices in the region to gather funding resources,
support and training information to provide to employers in the region who want
to improve their inclusive hiring practices.
-
Become a wealth of knowledge for your communities by seeking out resources
available through support organizations in the region.
-
Partner with organizations within the community to bring mobile services to
communities with limited resources and access.
17
5.3 BUILT ENVIRONMENT
The following section refers to feedback received from the community focused on Built
Environment.
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to exceed minimum accessibility
standards when, and if possible, by making all buildings, streets, sidewalks, and shared
spaces accessible to all.
Current Offerings: CBRM maintains most of the roadways within the former municipal units.
There are highways, bridges, and provincially owned roads that are currently maintained by
Provincial Department of Public Works that are found outside of the former municipal units, but
within the former County of Cape Breton.
CBRM has a snow removal strategy that is equitable to all users - snow clearing operations are
both consistent & reliable as resources, timing of event & conditions allow. We have GPS
mapping of our sidewalk network that shows the areas of coverage, and as well the areas that
receive full winter maintenance.
CBRM is responsible for the ownership and operation of approximately 200 Buildings, many of
which provide public access.
Survey Overview:
When addressing general built environments and spaces, the majority identified public
grounds/roads and open spaces (89%), parks and trails (63%) and crosswalks and
parking/parking lots (55%) as the most frequented built spaces. Unsurprisingly,
crosswalks and sidewalks (63%) and public grounds (61%) were identified as the least
accessible with 84.5% of those surveyed saying they do not believe that "infrastructures
(foot paths, public spaces, roads, sidewalks, crosswalks, street furniture, garbage bins,
post boxes, bicycles) are accessible to all". We surveyed the community by the districts
they live in as well, and most often the identified area within the community that was
voted least accessible was a park, trail or community centre, with the exception of
Sydney with the least accessible built environment being Centre 200.
Successes (What We Heard):
-
There are a number of community parks and playgrounds that have undergone
significant accessibility upgrades with the partnership of the CBRM and
community group fundraising. For example the Cantley Village Community
Playground.
-
The Sydney Fire Station is a brand new, well equipped and fully accessible
location.
-
The libraries in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality have plans to be
renovated to include aspects of accessibility and inclusivity. There are
considerations being made to replace the main CBRM Regional Library in
Sydney.
-
There are a number of trails and walking pathways that are assets to the
community and well groomed during the warmer months.
18
-
The Glace Bay Miners Forum has had a major renovation to include accessibility
aspects.
-
The Gary McDonald Recreation Complex in New Waterford includes an
accessible walking trail within a brand new recreation complex with activities for
everyone (not fully accessible).
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
Most restaurants don't have accessible entryways and/or washroom facilities.
-
Parks and playgrounds aren't accessible for everyone or provide opportunities for
all age groups to participate in play.
-
Most of the recreation facilities need accessibility upgrading for washrooms,
ramps, doors.
-
Most of the trails and parks do not have designated parking lots even though
community members need to drive to access them as they can't connect to them
via sidewalks or transit.
-
Most of the region's trails don't have any accessible access.
-
Most stairways do not have the yellow edge indicator on steps to show where the
edges are - challenging for the visually impaired.
-
Access within the built environments tends to only encompass physical access in
the space and not sensory considerations like: vision/ lighting and colours used
on signage, etc.
-
Amenities like post office boxes, resting areas, ATMs, and garbage receptacles
are not logically placed, easily accessible and/or not prevalent enough
throughout the community. Many of these amenities have been removed to
minimize the spread of COVID which creates more inequity and accessibility
barriers.
-
Well maintained, public, accessible washrooms are not adequately available
throughout at regional parks, trails, playgrounds and heavily travelled areas.
Covid and the opiate crisis in the area have exacerbated this issue in the region
with public washrooms usually locked.
-
Pedestrians can't make informed decisions on how to get where they need to go.
Sidewalks do not provide connectivity between town amenities, schools, parks
etc and there is no consistency in installation, maintenance and snow removal
among sidewalks, crosswalks, streets or pathways in any area. Not enough
lighting for pedestrian pathways (sidewalks, crosswalks, trails).
-
There are a number of priority #3 roads (residential streets and municipal
walkways) in the region which are last on the list for snow removal and during
winters like 2022, often don't get cleared before the next storm. Lack of all
season roads causes issues for accessing employment, essential services and
social interaction.
-
Municipal roads are in disrepair, road markings are non-existent in most spots
including crosswalks and intersections.
-
There is insufficient accessible, affordable housing. Where there are housing
developments, they are built far from the downtown core and essential services
like hospitals and grocery stores. Furthermore, there are very few accessible,
adaptable or visitable dwellings in CBRM. Barrier free design is a direction for
future building policy.
-
Wayfinding is insufficient and inconsistent.
19
Benchmarks:
-
Increase wayfinding and use adequate signage to locate essential
amenities and identify accessibility within the built space. Wayfinding and
adequate signage enable the users to make informed decisions (ie. This trail is
fully accessible; this park is accessible physically with support and does not have
sensory specific equipment; only the bathroom at X point is fully accessible)
ensuring accessibility features are found and dignity is maintained by everyone.
-
Consider accessibility and adhere to the Built Environment standards. All
municipal buildings need to not only have physically accessible entrances, but
accessibility needs to be met throughout the entire built environment, including
furniture, and fixtures. This needs to be a priority when the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality renovates, acquires or builds any of its facilities. Model this standard
level of accessibility and provide incentives to privately owned
businesses/service providers who strive to meet the same standard.
-
Create an Accessible Signage Standard. (see Information and
Communication)
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Engage disability focused organizations and/or community members with
disabilities in the planning and design of new built environments or renovations to
existing structures and ensure Universal Design is considered when doing so.
-
Promote an event whereby elected officials and/or administrative staff tour the
community with people with disabilities using various mobility devices;
blindfolded with assisted guides, and/or wearing noise cancelling headphones to
try and gain new perspectives and raise awareness.
-
Consider sensory barriers in public spaces and at public events. Low sensory
times are helpful and increase welcoming and acceptance; sensory rooms are
important in recreation centres and other large community spaces, but they aren't
enough. Consider pieces of parade routes where the parades will be silent;
encourage lower lighting, and reduce the need to wait in crowded lobby areas
when possible.
-
Create a minimum standard, or update an existing standard for
playgrounds. Playgrounds offer free opportunities for physical activity and need
to be inclusive and engaging of all age levels. The standard should include: cork
surface below all play structures, accessible swings (including ones for adults),
adaptive equipment, ground-level access, accessible parking (or at a minimum
safe streetside parking with an accessible access point to the play area),
accessible seating and accessible washrooms.
20
5.4 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to provide all communication in accessible
formats ensuring that everyone can receive, understand and share the information
provided by the Municipality. This may include but is not limited to communications
policies, procedures and practices in order to facilitate accessibility and adapting an
institutional standard.
Current Offerings:
The municipality currently sends important information in printed form to those who
receive bills through the mail; invites citizens to view/watch their municipal council
meetings livestreaming online, and posts announcements and event information on their
websites and social media platforms, ads in the paper, on the radio and in the recreation
guide.
Overview:
According to survey results, 97% of respondents have daily access to the internet
whether at home, work, school or at their local library. 73% of respondents access
information from the CBRM and their individual communities through social media
platforms, other frequently used forms of information communication were the CBRM
website and local radio. Many participants provided further information about where
they source their information, stating that the newspaper, community newsletters and
websites of various organizations (Go Cape Breton), their local councillors, CBU's
newsletters and bulletin boards and the social media pages of community organizations
like the Downtown Development group and the Chamber of Commerce were all relevant
sources.
A list of Municipal programs, committees and publications were compiled and
respondents were asked to select all they are aware of. The results are as follows. On
average, the awareness of:
-
Council Video Stream - 69%
-
Official Citizen Handbook of the CBRM - 58%
-
CBRM ConnectArts - 42%
-
311 - 35%
-
Cape Breton Welcome Network - 31%
-
CBRM Forward Project - 31%
-
CBRM Accessibility Advisory Committee - 27%
-
CBRM Diversity Committee - 15%
A few key points to mention - the two committees that should have community member
representation and work on plans and commitments that directly relate to the
community are the items the community is least aware of. Raising the awareness of
these initiatives could help increase the feeling of inclusion and representation within
the community, as when asked about whether or not they feel included and represented
within CBRM, 69% of respondents said "no". Furthermore, 85% of respondents
indicated they do not feel there is enough representation of people with disabilities
within CBRM's local news and media. Information provided for the promotion of
programs, services, events and initiatives is easily found, according to 62% of
21
respondents and 73% of those surveyed said the information is accessible to them,
however, only 23 % stated that the information about the accessibility of events and
programs was sufficient. Additionally, it is important to note here that only 1 survey
respondent identified as being blind or visually impaired and 1 respondent identified as
being deaf and/or hearing impaired. When thinking of communication methods, we need
to ensure that everyone can understand and share the information, not only 73%.
Successes (What We Heard):
-
CBRM Twitter is effective when it comes to disruptive timely information
regarding bus/transit routes.
-
CBRM social media platforms are usually kept up to date and provide ample
information on events and news.
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
The Transit website is very confusing - there needs to be an app.
-
There needs to be a map that highlights accessible spaces in each region, or
adequate signage with accessibility features and/or limitations at entrances of
built spaces.
-
ASL is not provided at public events or in council meetings.
-
Inconsistent signage and wayfinding everywhere.
-
All correspondence (posters etc) need to be made available in plain text, or with
descriptions for all images/non-text elements.
-
Advertising of important events is not being found in a timely manner, most find it
once the event has passed. Furthermore the accessibility of each event needs to
be clearly communicated on all public notices, posters, promotional materials etc.
This should include all accessibility features and should emphasize where and
how to access accessible parking.
-
The CBRM website is hard to navigate. You have to know what you are looking
for in order to find it aside from recent news headlines.
Benchmarks:
-
Ensure all communication is delivered in accessible formats and can
support the use of assistive technology. This includes the Municipality's
website and social media communications including image descriptions and
captioned video content, and physical/written text as means of communication
should include plain language options and the availability of audio transcriptions.
The CBRM should and can aim to exceed the WCAG 2.1 standards.
-
Create communications policies that protect and work for all stakeholders.
Software used for program and service delivery needs to be accessible to the
end-user. Listen to employees and community members and make changes to
policies to allow for ease of accommodations. For example Zoom vs Microsoft
Teams, Youtube vs Zoom for Council meetings, etc.
-
Re-evaluate the various systems and platforms being used for
reservations, bookings, bill payments etc. Ensure all platforms and systems
can be easily used from mobile devices and tablets, and when possible, have
them reviewed by people with differing abilities to ensure they work with assistive
technology. For example the "Booking" platform for the recreation department is
very inaccessible.
-
Create a standard for accessible communication. Ensuring nothing is
22
emailed, mailed, posted or otherwise if it does not meet certain standards for
accessibility and need.
-
Ensure that providers can confirm their product/service meets a minimum
of WCAG 2.0 standards when procuring IT/Software.
-
Create an Accessible Signage Standard. Be sure to identify font style, size,
contrast, logo placement, and the use of universally recognized icons for
accessibility features.
-
Ensure clear, easy to read, eye-level floor plans/maps/wayfinding signage
is available for all built space. Providing wayfinding for both indoor and outdoor
built environments supports informed decision making. These can also be made
available online if and where applicable.
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Involve the Cape Breton Regional Municipality Accessibility Advisory Committee
in guiding these policies. The committee consists of staff as well as
knowledgeable community members who have the capacity to lead these
conversations.
-
Available technology exists for interactive, accessible digital boards where
information can be shared, wayfinding is made accessible, events, business
hours, and contact information can be readily available. Consider a digital
interface where information can be provided and updated in real-time. It could
become an asset to everyone, especially visitors.
-
Offer staff training to learn how to create accessible documents. Everyone who is
responsible for creating documents and/or any form of communication can be
equipped with the knowledge and capabilities to create them in all formats.
-
Provide information about provincial and federal resources for financial support
for assistive technology so the community can have improved access to
communication.
23
5.5 AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to foster a culture of accessibility and
inclusion by facilitating the prevention and removal of barriers to participation for
everyone. The Cape Breton Regional Municipality will do so by promoting awareness
and acceptance throughout the Municipality.
Current Offerings: In the winter of 2021, the Municipality began forming their
Accessibility Advisory Committee of community members,council and staff to address
the prevention and elimination of barriers for all members of the community and to work
on creating this Accessibility Action Plan. The community of CBRM has a number of
community and staff advocates and experts who provide leadership and advocacy
throughout the region, many of whom are on the Advisory Committee which is really
positive to see. Additionally, the CBRM has a Diversity Committee and the Welcome
Network in the community to help with the sense of belonging, welcome and inclusion.
Survey Overview: When asked if they would share their experiences and opinions
about how to increase the accessibility of their area, if able to, 96% of respondents said
they would, with 46% of respondents also stating that although they don't currently
attend council meetings, they would like to. These numbers speak loudly to the fact that
citizens have valuable input to shape the community and support in moving accessibility
forward. 97% of respondents were residents of the CBRM. Additionally over 60% of all
of the surveys were completed by individuals who self-identify belonging to at least one
equity seeking group and also as being caregivers to a dependent (child, senior/parent,
and/or dependent with a disability). Of those identified, citizens identified as belonging
to one or more of these groups: people with disabilities (48%), women (57%), and
LGBTQ2SIA (18%).
65% of those surveyed said they "disagree" or "strongly disagree" when asked if the
CBRM is a community that makes all residents and guests feel welcome, including
people with disabilities. This is a strong message, as the majority of respondents
identify as being white, cis gendered, upper middle class, married members of the
community. Although, as mentioned above, there is a diverse group of citizens in the
Cape Breton Regional Municipality, this group of respondents would be considered to
have a lot of social privilege and most would not typically be excluded from full
participation in society. For these respondents to identify that they do not feel a sense of
welcome from the CBRM we can infer two things: CBRM needs to do better, and that
the community is very aware of inequity.
One respondent provided us with these closing remarks: "Accessibility is about wanting
to include others in all of the activities of life. It isn't just about ramps or physical
barriers. It is also about making sure that folks have a quiet space to go to during a
noisy event, or that materials provided in meetings are digitally accessible so that they
can be used with digital technology. Think about the barriers that people may face and
then imagine it is your partner, child or parent."
Successes (What We Heard):
-
The community is beginning to see that accessibility is a priority based on the
24
physical adaptations and considerations in new builds that are happening.
-
The community is noticing that accessibility awareness is being included in some
public events and recreational activities.
-
There has been a lot of good press on the CBC radio show, Ready and Able, that
Cape Bretoners report hearing and recognizing the advocates and leaders from
their community.
-
Council meetings are available online and/or through cable tv which increases
the accessibility of these meetings for some, and also makes them more
available to the public.
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
The community doesn't see enough representation in the region's public facing
services. Additionally, there is a strong group of people committed to equity in
the Region but those voices aren't necessarily represented in Council or
Administration.
-
Awareness has felt limited to physical accessibility only.
-
Knowledge of accessibility and access related concerns vary throughout the
community so there is no consistency in messaging, and limited opportunities for
people with disabilities to know what to expect when accessing services.
-
The social determinants of health are not met by, or accessible within, the CBRM
(economic stability, neighbourhood or physical environment, education, food,
community and social context, and health care system) and the impact of this on
mental health and addictions is not being considered.
-
Not everyone is aware that council meetings are able to be watched, or
rewatched, despite their availability online and on tv. If they were more aware,
they would feel more informed and engaged in community matters. Furthermore,
ASL interpretation and closed captioning have to be included for all council
meetings.
-
There doesn't seem to be consistency in the accessibility regulations between
most educational institutions and private career colleges.
Benchmarks:
-
Create a plan for learning for all levels of staff at the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality that includes anti-oppression training, emotional intelligence and/or
unconscious bias, terminology, legislation, the ease of accommodation,
accessible language, etc.
-
Make accessibility a financial priority. Add it to the budget and plan how it will
be addressed. Accessibility is doable but it takes planning, time and cooperation.
-
Create opportunities for all people with disabilities. Create equity hires or
committee positions to ensure inclusion of not only people with disabilities but
members of all equity seeking groups.
-
Appoint a Director of Compliance or designated role to focus on
accessibility compliance. The Province of Nova Scotia will be creating
compliance measures for the accessibility legislation, but, this framework has not
yet been developed. In the meantime, create a designated role to review and
reassess progress to date.
-
All staff to be trained in diversity and inclusion so everyone is ready, willing
and able to provide inclusive services. Some employee groups will require
more in-depth training depending on the services they provide: inclusive
25
customer service for retailers; disability awareness for recreational staff;
accessible communication for communications staff; unconscious bias for senior
leaders. Training should be compulsory for all groups.
-
Ensure adequate staffing for roles that provide support. People with
disabilities and/or those who experience barriers to full participation cannot go
without because service providers do not have the capacity or are not provided
what they need to adapt ie. adequate staffing for day camp and recreation
programs in order to accommodate children with disabilities.
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Partner with agencies that support people with disabilities on a regular basis for
events, programs, and learning opportunities and do so in the public's eye.
Promote the partnerships and encourage the Cape Breton Regional Municipality
community to join in.
-
Encourage more employees and the AAC to get involved in the various working
groups within the Province of Nova Scotia to help build the standards that will
guide all goods and services within Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
-
Consult with agencies and organizations supporting people with disabilities
and/or people from marginalized communities when making decisions and/or
creating policies to ensure they are being done without bias, and with full
consideration and engagement of these communities.
-
Increase awareness about mental health and intersectional barriers like food and
financial insecurity, affordable housing, and support for single parents by
partnering with service agencies and promoting messages and events of
awareness.
26
5.6 TRANSPORTATION
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to make it easier for everyone to get where
they need to go throughout the Municipality and will continue to discuss options for
increased accessibility and the removal of transportation barriers for residents and
visitors.
Current Offerings:
The CBRM operates and maintains both Transit Cape Breton and Handi-Trans - an
accessible door to door service for people requiring accessible transportation.
Overview:
The three main responses when asked about how community members travel in the
Cape Breton Regional Municipality were: by car 88%), walking (81%) and cycling
(19%). None of the respondents identified public transportation as their main source of
transportation. They did however state that their barriers when it comes to using public
transportation are routing (many areas of CBRM do not have Transit services),
scheduling and availability - which seems to be a barrier for all modes of public transit -
taxi, Handi-trans and Transit Cape Breton. When addressing physical barriers in relation
to walking, cycling and travelling by wheelchair or electric scooter the most prominent
issues are weather, routing and physical barriers. Most explained further in the
comments that the physical barriers pertain to roads, sidewalks, bicycle trails and lack
thereof. One respondent shared "As an international student who mostly relies on public
transportation, my commute has not been the most efficient. It has been most disrupted
during wintertime. I often feel like my voice is not heard by the CBRM. I have been
tweeting my complaints to CBRM to no response."
Successes (What We Heard):
-
Handi-Trans exists and is able to provide much needed services to those who
access it.
-
There are various taxi services throughout the region.
-
The taxi by-laws are now being updated to make them more accessible. This
would increase the number of accessible taxis in the area, alleviate the resource
strain on Handi-Trans and provide more public transportation for community
members.
-
Transit Cape Breton is a public transit system that operates throughout many, but
not all, of the Districts in the CBRM.
-
There have been some sidewalk and crosswalk improvements in specific areas.
For example, George Street in Sydney.
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
Handi-Trans needs to expand their services, currently they do not provide
services for people with cognitive disabilities due to limited resources. Taking a
packed bus for folks with autism is overwhelming. "I had a student missing time
regularly because they could get on a crowded bus due to their autism which
affected them in not dealing well with crowds". There needs to be more
accessible door to door transit, and the services need to be extended to outlying
areas, this would also improve housing issues.
27
-
We no longer use the word handicapped, and shortening the word transit to trans
is not acceptable language for an accessible transportation service - the
"Handi-Trans" name needs to change.
-
Taxis don't travel to all areas and very few are wheelchair accessible.
-
Calming measures, lower speed limits, and the removal of some street side
parking is needed on traffic heavy streets as it is unsafe to get to and from
parked vehicles; for travelling vehicles to see pedestrians trying to cross, for
cyclists, and for those using powered chairs/scooters who have to drive on the
road as the sidewalks are not passable.
-
There is no consistency of sidewalk placement in the downtown areas,
residential areas, or connecting downtown areas to outlying communities and
vice versa. Inadequate access or availability of multi-use trails which would
provide improved connectivity for adjoining communities into the core of Sydney,
improve active transportation and quality of life for many who need access to
safe walkways and bike passageways in order to exercise daily.
-
There are not enough designated accessible parking spots, and those that are
available do not have accessibility features: spaces are not clearly marked, are
not large enough to accommodate vehicles with lifts and ramps, do not have
cut-outs in curbs when roadside and do not provide safe passage to amenities.
-
Unable to bike on most roadways, especially King's Road. Cyclists and motorists
cannot share the road using the 1 metre rule, and there are no safe places to
lock and store a bicycle in public places.
-
Little enforcement done to ensure that accessible parking is only used by
permitted vehicles on CBRM property.
-
Inconsistent and unreliable snow removal on roads, sidewalks and crosswalks.
Sidewalk curb cuts need to be properly cleared for someone using a mobility
device to be able to get off of the sidewalk and cross the street.
Benchmarks:
-
Ensure access to accessible, affordable public transportation. The Cape
Breton Regional Municipality needs to provide improved access to public
transportation for the entire municipality both through Transit Cape Breton and
Handi-Trans.
-
Ensure that any new development includes designated accessible parking
spaces. (see appendix for parking examples)
-
Ensure that safe travel is made a priority for the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality. Connect the main amenities of stores, recreational facilities and
outdoor spaces with well lit and clearly marked pathways to encourage the use of
the spaces and promote active transportation, aligning with the Active
Transportation Plan.
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Create a campaign to increase awareness and acceptance about
Accessible Parking. Using social media to reach (and continuously) educate the
public to be kind and respect accessible parking, explaining that these spaces
are for people with all forms of disabilities and that there is a high percentage of
our population who require them, and very limited spaces available in general.
-
Communicate clearly and openly about snow removal. Inform the community
of snow removal plans before storms hit, remind them of how to 'track the plow' if
28
this service is available in your area, provide minimal timelines to ease
expectations and be open and honest about resources. For example, "We're
expecting 15 cm of snow Thursday, it is our goal to have the areas of A,B,C
cleared by 8am, D,E,F cleared by Thursday evening and G&H at the latest on
Friday afternoon. Please prepare accordingly for the upcoming snow. If you need
assistance please contact 311 for support and resources in your area.
Remember you can visit x link to view the plow tracker in your area."
29
5.7 EMPLOYMENT
Commitment:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality aims to lead as accessible and equitable
employers, by making the Municipality an accessible workplace and supporting
people with disabilities in finding and maintaining meaningful employment.
Current Offerings:
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality has a dedicated team of full-time, part-time, and
seasonal employees as well as elected officials. There are many divisions and
departments and many staff who are unionized and many who are not.
Overview:
Just under half of the survey respondents feel that there is available employment for
them in the CBRM, and it is notable to mention that just under half of the respondents
identify as a person with a disability. We have no way of knowing if these individuals are
those who feel there is available employment for them in the CBRM but the possibility is
encouraging. When asked about their knowledge around the employment supports that
are available for them in the area, 97% of respondents said they are aware that these
services exist.
Successes (What We Heard):
-
The Municipality has a Diversity Committee which can address inequities in the
workplace.
-
30% of survey respondents said they are aware of inclusive and accessible
workplaces in the area. We've heard about individuals from Crossroads work
seasonally at the Port of Sydney.
-
There are a number of employment support organizations in the area for
example: Nova Scotia Works, Breton Abilities, Crossroads, etc.
Barriers (What We Heard):
-
Lack of transportation limits ability to find, and maintain employment.
-
The built environments of the municipality owned and privately owned buildings
are not accessible to everyone. This inaccessibility creates barriers to
employment for many. This is especially true for many areas within the City Hall
Building and the various locations of the CBRM Regional Libraries.
-
Employers do not understand what it means to be accessible or to provide
accommodations so most feel screened-out if they disclose they require an
accommodation.
Benchmarks:
-
Train all current employees, provide onboarding materials around inclusion
and accessibility for all new employees, and put policies in place to
process issues and concerns should they arise. Equity, Diversity and
Inclusion training is not only an asset for organizational structures like the Cape
Breton Regional Municipality, it is required and should be included alongside
other necessary operational costs. There will be an initial expense but future
costs can be reduced by finding a method that works like online training modules.
-
Ensure recruitment, hiring, and career development processes are
30
accessible to all marginalized groups. Revisit and revise hiring policies, job
descriptions, and inclusion and diversity policies within Cape Breton Regional
Municipality.
-
Update policies for managers to include the duty to provide reasonable
accommodations. Explore what accommodations would look like, and promote
your policy throughout. There are likely employees who are not aware they could
ask. Consider including provisions for working from home to allow for increased
accommodations for staff.
-
Improve access to all built environments to ensure employees are able to
access washrooms,workspaces, common rooms etc.
Opportunities/Recommendations:
-
Partner with organizations like reachAbility to create online or in-person modules
for continued learning around Equity, Diversity & Inclusion for Cape Breton
Regional Municipality employees.
-
Partner with agencies that represent people with disabilities and marginalized
communities when hiring and commit to equity hires.
-
There are financial supports through various levels of grant funding streams that
provide financial support for infrastructure, training and wage subsidies for the
Municipality and for business. See appendix for Funding Resources.
-
Provide resources to employers/businesses in the area on how to be inclusive.
Host and promote free training sessions (online or in person) and/or promote
other organizations free training resources to increase awareness of accessibility
and inclusion and show that the Municipality sees EDI as a priority.
31
6.1 BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY SCAN
Overview
When considering the accessibility of the built environment it is important to consider
Universal Design - "Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment
so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all
people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. An environment (or any building,
product, or service in that environment) should be designed to meet the needs of all
people who wish to use it."2 In order for a space to achieve universal design it needs to
have:
-
Equitable Use: useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
-
Flexibility in Use: accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and
abilities.
-
Simple and Intuitive Use: easy to understand, regardless of the user's
experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.
-
Perceptible Information: communicates necessary information effectively to the
user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.
-
Tolerance for Error: minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of
accidental or unintended actions.
-
Low Physical Effort: can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum
of fatigue.
-
Size and Space for Approach and Use: appropriate size and space is provided
for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size,
posture, or mobility.
Most simply put, universal design ensures that anyone and everyone can use a space
in a dignified manner. It is through this lens, with the guidance of the Rick Hansen
Foundation Accessibility Certification, that we have reviewed the built environment of
the CBRM.
Our Built Environment Scans took place between February 22nd and 25th, 2022. We
have listed all of the built spaces we visited. We were able to experience most locations
fully, however some buildings were closed at the time of our arrival and/or unavailable to
arrange an internal tour. We have included a categorized list of the spaces we visited
and for each category we have provided a thorough scan of this space. Specific
references and images are provided for each of the spaces, when necessary, in Section
7.0.
When scanning built environments, whether indoor, outdoor or a combination of built
and natural space as observed in parks, there are a number of key aspects that we
consider:
2 National Disability Authority, 2020. https://universaldesign.ie/What-is-Universal-Design/
32
Buildings & Indoor Built Space
-
Entrances/Exits, Passageways and Rooms: consider transitions, doors,
wayfinding, welcome & inclusivity, location, safety, lighting, noise, logic, fixtures,
flooring.
-
Furniture & Layout: consider height, depth, leg clearance, arm height, floor
design, obstacles, ability, inclusivity, noise, logic, fixtures.
-
Stairs/Ramps: consider height, depth, transitions & colours, railing height,
diameter, shape, locations and availability, wayfinding, landings, overhang,
obstacles.
-
Elevators: consider dimensions, door width, mirrors, wayfinding and signage,
sounds, buttons, button height, braille, location, availability, flooring.
-
Washrooms: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
labels, stall width and turn radius, toilet (width/back), height of fixtures, sink
(height/insulated pipes/clearance), amenities within reach, doors, buttons,
handles and locks, coat hooks, changing tables.
-
Parking: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
markings (sign on pole/painted space), curb cuts, space width and length, vicinity
to other spaces.
-
Other considerations: additional amenities not typical of all spaces, added
accessibility features like publicly accessible mobility devices (chairs, walkers,
scooters), general concerns.
Parks & Playgrounds
-
Entrance/Exit: consider transitions, gates, wayfinding and signage, welcome &
inclusivity, location, safety.
-
Passage Ways: consider pathways, transitions, wayfinding, inclusivity, location,
safety, material.
-
Rest areas: consider structure, layout, frequency and location, transitions,
wayfinding, welcome & inclusivity, safety, noise, furniture/fixtures, leg clearance,
wheelchair accessibility.
-
Equipment: consider material, durability, transitions and contrast, height, design,
obstacles, ability, inclusivity, noise, logic, variety of activities.
-
Stairs/ladders: consider height, depth, transition textures & contrast, railing
height, railing diameter & shape, railing locations and availability, wayfinding,
landings, overhang/toe kick, obstacles.
-
Washrooms: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
label, stall width and turn radius, toilet (width/back), height of fixtures, sink
(height/insulated pipes/clearance), amenities within reach, doors, buttons,
handles and locks, coat hooks, changing tables.
-
Parking: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
markings (sign on pole/painted space), space width and length, curb cuts, vicinity
to other spaces.
Trails
-
Entrance/Exit: consider transitions, gates, wayfinding, welcome & inclusivity,
location, safety
-
Passage Ways: consider pathway, transitions, wayfinding, welcome & inclusivity,
location, safety, material.
33
-
Rest areas: consider structure, layout, frequency and location, transitions,
wayfinding, welcome & inclusivity, safety, noise, furniture/fixtures, leg clearance,
wheelchair accessibility.
-
Amenities: consider water, bike support (air/repair), lighting, proximity to
emergency help/telephone, durability, wayfinding, obstacles, ability, inclusivity.
-
Washrooms: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
label, stall width and turn radius, toilet (width/back), height of fixtures, sink
(height/insulated pipes/clearance), amenities within reach, doors, buttons,
handles and locks, coat hooks, changing tables .
-
Parking: consider availability & location, signage, wayfinding & identifying
markings (sign on pole/painted space), space width and length, curb cuts, vicinity
to other spaces.
34
6.2 Mapping Engagement
Summary
During the engagement sessions conducted throughout the CBRM as well as the social
media mapping engagement campaign, we gathered input from the citizens of the area
on barriers, successes, and opportunities, in the 12 districts throughout CBRM. During
our in-person engagement sessions, attendees were asked to write on sticky notes of
differing colours indicating successes (blue), barriers (pink), and opportunities (yellow)
and asked to place them on large printed out maps of the different districts within the
CBRM. The responses were then collected, along with the submissions from the online
#CBRMaccess social media mapping engagement campaign.
These are some photo examples of the in-person mapping project that took place.
During each engagement, the district maps were placed throughout the room and
attendees engaged in discussion while placing their comments on the maps:
35
District 1
Successes:
Monroe Park has a few pieces of accessible playground equipment like an accessible
double swing.
Barriers:
The entrance to Emera Centre was noted in successes as it has good contrast, this will
need to be redone in better weather conditions as it is starting to fade.
Opportunities:
Munroe Park could be greatly improved by updates to the boardwalk and increased
path markings.
District 2
Successes:
There was mention of an upcoming Accessible National Sailing race hosted by the
Northern Yacht Club, which was considered a success.
Barriers:
Most of the barriers focused on Emera Centre Northside which included: a lack of
contrast on the steps, the height of the sinks and paper towel/soap dispensers in the
bathroom, and the signage on the bathroom that could be improved. The majority of the
barrier notes mentioned the key operated within the Emera Centre to reach the upstairs.
This lift is only accessible by key and the key is not kept close by the elevator for ease
of access.
Opportunities:
Munroe Park could benefit from better signage and wayfinding to increase accessibility.
District 3
No suggested areas of improvement for municipal properties.
District 4
Successes:
There were multiple parks and trails in this area that were mentioned as successes
including: the well groomed #2 trail, the well used and accessible 18km recreation route
in Coxheath/Sydney River/Howie Centre/Blackett's Lake, The Westmount Murphy Road
side walking loop, and the Cantley Village Park.
Barriers:
Major barriers surrounded a lack of sidewalks and safe crossing in a lot of pedestrian
and high traffic areas, for example The Westmount Road to Sydney Port area. This
causes most areas to be inaccessible by foot. Another major barrier listed was the lack
of public transportation and connectivity between communities, creating difficulty
accessing important goods and services. There is a food desert in Edwardsville and
Westmount that is heightened by lack of transportation or safe walking passageways to
other communities.
Opportunities:
There were many opportunities within parks and recreational spaces noted: Cantley
Village Park could benefit from more seating and their baseball field could use some
minor updates for accessibility, the #2 trails could have some improved signage,
36
increased lighting on the Vince Muise Walking trail would improve visibility and extend
hours of use, and the Sydney River Tennis courts could benefit from improved access
via the parking lot. There were also a few opportunities listed for new pathways,
sidewalks, and recreational spaces. These included: A multi-use trail by the old train
tracks parallel to Kings Road, a pedestrian bridge that could connect communities at the
bottom of the Waterview, sidewalks to increase safety in the Coxheath subdivisions,
crosswalk lights at major crossings and in heaving pedestrian areas, and a trail
connecting the community to the new NSCC campus would improve accessibility and
active transportation.
District 5
Successes:
Schools in this area, specifically the Whitney Pier Memorial Jr High, have been doing a
good job of making efforts toward accessibility. It was mentioned that the social media
and newsprint in this area are excellent but that it doesn't reach everyone. A few areas
were noted for their success in upgrading crosswalks (Geroge and Prince) and adding
bike lanes and traffic control (Membertou). A few recreation areas were noted as well:
The accessible players entrance at Centre 200, the boardwalk in Sydney, and the new
changes to Wentworth Park.
Barriers:
Transportation was frequently mentioned in this area, including: The cycle route maps
not being accessible through mapping apps, a significant lack of transit due to coverage
and run times, and the lack of a pedestrian trail throughout. There were also a number
of barriers mentioned in relation to sidewalks (missing or in poor condition), snow
clearing, traffic control, safe crossings and crossing lights, as well as safe bike lanes
throughout the entire area - even in "priority areas". Barriers within Centre 200 were
also frequently noted including: The stairs from the street aren't painted with contrast,
there are no signs to indicate the exits inside of the bathrooms by the main entrance,
there are no rails on the stairs to the stadium seating, and the "main entrance" on both
sides of the building are not accessible. There were also a few barriers mentioned
within Wentworth park that include: Missing rails for stairs in the gazebo area, and no
signage for wayfinding or stating what is available within the park.
Opportunities:
Opportunities for District 5 included: Ensuring more accessible and safe pedestrian
access around roundabouts (will have to consult with the Province), increasing the
Handi-Trans services to serve more citizens, and better communication from the
community would help with a lot of issues. Some opportunities for recreation spaces
included: having more wheelchair accessible washrooms available in public spaces and
restaurants, and increasing the maintenance of the boardwalk to improve accessibility.
District 6
This area included barriers noted for most of the sidewalks in the district, as well as the
lip from the curb to the road causing a barrier.
District 7
In this area, there is a lot of promotion for sledge hockey which is a major success. It
was also noted that there is an accessible beach.
37
District 8
Barriers:
In this area there were a few barriers mentioned including schools and parks, it was
noted that no schools or parks in the area were fully accessible and often required
segregation from friends/classmates when being accessed by someone with a physical
disability.
Opportunities:
An opportunity that was presented in this area was some improvement to the lighthouse
trail to incorporate an accessible system like that at Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia.
District 9
Successes:
A few successes mentioned funding, such as the Hub Club Accessibility Funding, and
the Reserve Fire Hall Funding. The Miner's Museum and Village was notable, with the
biggest success being the accessible fishing area in Glace Bay.
Barriers:
The biggest barriers in this area surrounded lack of sidewalks and crosswalks,
accessible features to sidewalks, and accessible parking.
Opportunities:
The opportunities listed in this area all commented on accessible infrastructure and
accessible entrances to goods and services. It was also noted that more crossing lights
at crosswalks would go a long way in increasing accessibility and safety.
District 10
Successes:
Many recreational activities and spaces were mentioned, including: the accessible
equipment at the Dominion playground, the walking basketball program, the
sledge-hockey program, the updates to the Union Street Legion, the Glace Bay Minor
Forum (including lighting, contrast on walls, bathrooms, entrance, and more), The Glace
Bay Library, and the barrier free fishing platform. A few other accessible spaces were
mentioned such as the Police Station, the Food Bank, and the community garden.
Barriers:
Many barriers mentioned in this area related to lack of sidewalks, physical
inaccessibility of stores and other goods and services, inaccessibility and poor
maintenance of walking trails and parks, and the road lines and safety. The lack of
mental health and other health services was also mentioned as a major barrier.
Opportunities:
Many opportunities mentioned access to information and communication, including:
Increasing the forms of communication to include print options allowing for more
access, including a "read aloud" or "audio" button on websites for ease of access, and
increasing partnerships and connections with community groups to better disseminate
information. Many opportunities also listed small changes to physical built space that
would increase accessibility like making gender neutral bathrooms, using more durable
paint or markers for contrast, updates to frequently visited parts, and adding quiet
spaces.
38
District 11
Barriers
A few barriers in this area that were mentioned included a lack of accessible taxis, lack
of accessibility to the accessible transit service, and inaccessible library and other public
spaces.
Opportunities
The opportunities provided in this area focused on physical spaces, like sidewalk
updates and doorway clearance, but also included more accessible information like font
changing the access to information pages as well as captioning and ASL on public
meetings.
District 12
Barriers:
In this area, the Mall was identified as containing a lot of physical barriers within the
indoor space and entrances. It was also noted that the maintenance of public parks and
walkways was a barrier.
Opportunities:
It was noted that some changes to the boardwalk would be a great opportunity for an
accessible trail.
39
6.3 Community Halls and Centres, and Recreation Centres
-
Glace Bay Miners Forum
-
Recreation Centre Indian Beach/Indian Beach Complex
-
Northside Community Pool
-
Coxheath Recreation Centre
-
Emera Centre
-
Centre 200
Featured Building: Glace Bay Miners Forum
Entrances/Exits: There are a number of entrances at the front of the building, and
therefore the main entrance isn't easily identifiable. All entrances have adequate curb
cut outs for easy access from the parking lot. Two of the entrances are ground level and
do not require stairs or ramps. One of the entrances, which appears to be the players
entrance, has three stairs with a gradually elevated walkway that leads from the
sidewalk to the door. We believe the elevation of this is less than 12" (300 mm) and, if
this is the case, a railing is not required but a defined edge for cane detection is
recommended. The entryway has motion sensored automatic glass doors which have
two panes of glass separated by the metal framing of the door, providing adequate
contrast. We would suggest adding the "automatic doors" sticker to the top panels for
visitors to be fully aware that the doors are automatic as well as to add additional
contrasting. It's notable to mention that the optional/emergency exits that we found were
all ground level push doors without door opener buttons, and these buttons wouldn't
work in most emergencies. The doors were light enough to be pushed open with ease.
The name of the facility has changed since Google and GPS were updated so we had a
bit of a challenge finding the space, even with the wayfinding signage throughout Glace
Bay.
Passage Ways: The lobby area is open and bright with minimal clutter. Upon entering,
you can proceed, left, where you are met with stairs and a ramp to access washrooms
and the community room, or right, where you are also met with a ramp and a small set
of stairs to enter into the lobby area and proceed to the rink and the Pit Shop (Glace
Bay Miners merch store). The doors to the community room had long vertical automatic
door opener buttons, which was great to see, however they didn't have much contrast
from the wall colour so they weren't easily identifiable. Additionally, all of the stairs and
ramps lacked contrast and tactile indication at the beginning and end, as well as on
each step. In the lobby, we were greeted by a table of cheerful volunteers checking
Covid vaccinations and their set up was not intrusive of the space. Other than this group
of volunteers, it was not clear if there was a welcome desk area/box office space.
It is important to keep unnecessary items out of pathways so as to not impede the
passageway for people who are blind, visually impaired, or who use a mobility device
that may need a specific turn radius. The passageways have ample built space for the
public to move in both directions. We encourage using caution when using rugging to
create walkways as they can create tripping hazards for people who are blind or who
are visually impaired if not properly placed.
40
The doors we saw all had handles and all opened the same way - they were pulled from
the outside and pushed from the inside. Directional arrows for wayfinding are needed,
and more of the well contrasted signs need to be everywhere. If you were a new visitor
to the centre, there is little support in finding where you need to go.
Fire extinguishers weren't properly encased or partially recessed in the walls as they
should. Visual and audible fire alarms were visible throughout the building. The AEDs
were too high on the walls and should be lowered to no more than 1100mm in height for
accessibility.
Rooms: The community space we visited was very accessible. The tables and chairs
were all at reasonable heights for accessibility, we would suggest having some chairs
that have arms on them for folks who require some more stability when using a chair.
The lights were adjustable, which is very helpful for individuals with visual impairment,
and the noise baffling throughout the space was great for any audience and especially
for those with sensory needs.
The lounge area was open and barrier free, using the same types of seating as the
community room, and features a large viewing area to overlook the hockey rink. The
windows for viewing were at a great height, ensuring anyone could see from a seated or
standing position. We were unable to visit the changing rooms or the pathway to them,
but we would advise to ensure that this space allows for 1000mm of clear width for path
of travel with room for a 1700mm turn radius. The Pit Shop is a bright, clean and
uncluttered space, however the display table in the middle of the space makes the turn
radius and passageway inconveniently narrow for anyone using a mobility device. We
would also suggest using caution when placing clothing racks, balloons, etc outside of
the space as it could get into the pathway of someone who can't see it, or impede on
the turn radius and passageway of someone using a mobility device.
There was an event happening on the rink, so we were unable to enter. We did take a
look around and noticed that although there is contrast on the stairs to the arena
seating, there doesn't seem to be any tactile indication and there is only a railing on one
side of the stairs. We didn't see any indication of accessible seating or where it could be
found.
Furniture & Layout: We can't recall seeing any benches or rest areas throughout the
lobby space or in the walkways. We would suggest that there be some seating for those
who need to rest along the route, ensuring that it is at a reasonable height, available
with and without arms for varied support. The seating area in the lounge has tables and
chairs that are easily moveable and at accessible heights, however the bar height and
seating of the TALO on Ice lounge space is too high. It is important to remember that
tables/desks need to be a clearance height of 685mm minimum, with a height range of
730mm-860mm, and there should be be a variety of chairs - some on wheels so they
can be moved without assistance, and some that are fixed or without wheels if someone
with a wheelchair wishes to transfer from their chair to use the table/desk. Moreover,
access to electrical outlets is imperative nowadays for communication and/or
accessibility needs. Ensure that there are always seating options within proximity of
available outlets.
41
Stairs/Ramps: The stairs located at one of the entrances, believed to be the athlete
entrance, have appropriate railings available - they are proper height and diameter.
There is no contrast or tactile indication on the stairs, so this needs to be added. We
heard that there is an elevator at this location, however we did not see or use it. There
are railings on both sides of the ramps in the lobby which are appropriate size, height
and shape for accessibility. All ramps should be checked to ensure the degree of
elevation is no more than 5-6%, the acceptable standard. There needs to be
appropriate contrast at the beginning and end of all ramps and stairs. The lack of
railings on either side of the stairs to the arena seating will impede movement on the
stairs for those with some mobility issues - like seniors or people with back injuries - two
railings would be ideal.
Washrooms: The washrooms on the main level are well marked with gender and
accessibility. The counters and sinks are at accessible heights, ensure all toilets have
backs on them and that all of the amenities (soap, paper towel, etc) are accessible
(maximum 1100 mm high). See Appendix for washroom examples.
Parking: There were at least four appropriately sized accessible parking spaces at the
front of the building with clearly marked pathways to all entrances from the parking lot
and curb cut out access. The parking spaces do not have adequate markings, they only
have the ground markings, they require posted signs as well. See Appendix for
accessible parking examples.
42
6.4 Municipal Buildings
-
Cape Breton Regional Municipality City Hall
-
Recreation Centre/Maintenance Building
Featured Building: Cape Breton Regional Municipality - City Hall
Entrance/Exit: In order to access the main entrance, visitors cross a large brick walkway
that connects the City Hall with Esplanade and the side streets surrounding the building.
This space has a number of access points, two of which are inaccessible staircases
without contrast, tactile indicators or appropriate railings. Anyone with a mobility
impairment can only access this area at ground level if they travel up the sidewalk to the
ground level access point. The entrance leads immediately to other doors, and is not
very welcoming. There is signage on the glass windows of the doors identifying the
automatic door opener. We would suggest moving the door opener button as it is hidden
and difficult to locate.
There is a rear entrance for staff only which requires a badge/key for entrance. This
entrance is not accessible as it requires staff to use stairs from the rear parking lot. The
flooring is laminate tile with a low tight carpet used to create a pathway between the two
entrances creating a space to provide some anti-slip surface.
There are a number of other entrances/exits in the building. The emergency exit from
Council Chambers is a spiral staircase that brings the user outside on the main level.
There are two other entrances/exits in the basement that have strange layouts, one a
ramp and stair combination (neither are built to standard)
leading to a large lip when exiting the door, with no way for someone in a wheelchair to
independently exit or enter. It is suspected this exit/entrance is meant for loading and
unloading, however, the layout is inaccessible and somewhat dangerous. The other
entrance/exit leads to the underground parking lot which has a step required to
enter/exit. This underground parking space is not well organized and doesn't have clear
passageways to get from your vehicle to the entrance.
Passageways: Hallways are an appropriate width, except in some office spaces like the
planning office where there is too much clutter and cubicle placement making the
passageway too narrow. Passageways need to allow for 1000mm of clear width for path
of travel with room for a 1700mm turn radius.
Signage used to identify areas and office spaces have good contrast and are of a good
sized font. There are a variety of signs/postings throughout City Hall, especially in the
bathrooms, that place the CBRM logo behind the font, making them hard to read and
reducing the accessibility of the sign. There are a number of mailboxes/file holders
hanging in the hallways next to office doors which need to be removed as they reduce
the space of the passageway and are dangerous obstacles for individuals who are
visually impaired or blind.
Fire extinguishers were a bit too high. Visual fire alarms were visible throughout the
building. Fixture height may be too high - all fixtures and amenities should be at an
accessible standard height of 1100mm for all standard items such as fire extinguishers,
light switches, paper towel, soap, etc, with fire alarms at 1200mm. Door knobs should
43
all be replaced with door handles and door swings should all go the same way - either
all push, or all pull - from the outside.
Rooms: The Council Chambers room has a number of accessibility issues to address. It
is inappropriate to prop a wheelchair user at the top of a very small ramp in order to
watch the council meetings. Separating an individual from the rest of the audience is
wrong, and perching them unsafely on a landing at the top of a ramp without a turn
radius or any space to move around is dangerous. The chairs for the seated audience
are all fixed to the floor and they should be able to be moved to accommodate further
accessible floor level seating. The space allotted for councillors on the main level is too
narrow, there is not ample passageway behind the seats for someone in a wheelchair or
using a mobility device to pass behind those already seated. This could be alleviated by
shortening the plexiglass dividers and eliminating how they overstretch into the
passageway. The podium or counter space where a member of the public addresses
council is too high and needs to be lowered to between 750-850 mm. There are steps to
get up to where the staff and Mayor sit, these spaces should be accessible to everyone.
The large CBRM logo in the middle of the Chamber's floor needs to have a smooth
transition around its outer edge, adding a rubber nosing commonly used in flooring
would rectify this. The control room for the council chambers has a step up to get inside.
A ramp could be included in this small space after modifying the door to pull open
instead of pushing inward and replacing the step with a ramp. It was nice to see the
adjustable lighting.
The office spaces on level 1 were very cluttered, leaving little to no passageway or
clearance. Other offices had lots of space to allow for appropriate turn radius and
passageways. Some of the office space would benefit from furniture removal, as the
extra seating spaces and pieces of furniture that are not essential to the functioning of
the space reduce space for an adequate turn radius. The keypad for staff access needs
to be lowered to be no more than 1100 mm high. Filing cabinets are too high, they
should not be any higher than 1100 mm either. The boardrooms and community rooms
had tables at accessible heights and chairs (with wheels) that could easily be removed
to create more space. We would suggest adding a few chairs to each meeting space
that do not have wheels for those with mobility issues who require a stable chair.
Additionally these spaces had minimal other furniture or clutter which made them open
and accessible.
Furniture & Layout: As mentioned, the tables and chairs in publicly used rooms (board
and community rooms) meet accessibility needs but we would suggest adding a few
sturdy chairs without wheels for safe transferring and/or someone who requires a sturdy
chair to get in and out of. The chairs in the council chambers are all at a good height,
are sturdy and have good leg clearance for mobility assistance. We recommend
providing a variety of seating - some with and without arms - to accommodate varying
needs. The seating arrangement for the media is not inclusive as the attached desktop
is not friendly for people of all sizes and abilities.
Office furniture is reasonable. Desks are mainly L shaped and have good leg clearance.
Office chairs are on wheels which is helpful with moving around the desk area. The
counters in the tax and billing space on the main level are too high at 43", they need to
44
be lowered to between 750-850 mm. The counter for the commissionaires booth is also
much too high. The chairs available in the visitor waiting area are adequate.
Stairs/Ramp: As mentioned there is ground level access to the main public entrance/exit
along with two sets of stairs. The stairs are not accessible as there is a lip at the bottom,
they do not have appropriate railings, and they do not have contrast or tactile indication
on them. We would recommend that this whole area be entry level and the stairs be
removed. This space already causes barriers for those with mobility issues as the
brickwork is difficult to walk on. The stairs inside the building need better contrast and
tactile indication. The emergency exit stairs from the Council Chambers would be nearly
impossible to carry someone down with their spiral layout. The hand rails on all stairs
need to have a definitive end where the railing turns down at the last step, indicating to
the user, whether they can see or not, that the stairs have ended.
Elevators: There are standard size elevators that access all levels of the building.
Button height is appropriate and accessible, the buttons are black with silver numbers,
providing black and white contrast would be helpful, and the railings are adequate in the
elevator. There are no mirrors on the back walls, they should be added for improved
accessibility. The floors of the elevators were non-slip which was nice to see.
Washrooms: Bathrooms didn't have L shaped or vertical bars for transfer, only
horizontal. Not all amenities (soap, paper towel etc) are at accessible heights. Every
bathroom we entered had a different layout. The bathrooms can easily be made
accessible by switching the location of the stall with the non-accessible stall OR making
them single use bathrooms to allow for more space and turn radius. None of the
bathrooms had door opener buttons or door stops. The doors were a reasonable
weight. The sinks would be accessible if the front plate was removed (there is a piece of
wood going across the front of all of the sinks that prevents accessible leg clearance)
and the pipes were covered with insulating materials. In almost every bathroom
entrance way there was a garbage disposal in the entry way limiting the width of the
passageway. These all need to be removed.
Parking: There was one wheelchair parking spot available in front of the building. There
is not enough space streetside for this to be a truly accessible parking space. We
suggest creating an inlet in the sidewalk area to make a more accessible street side
parking spot that is wider and longer for true accessibility. The parking spots need to be
properly marked with visible ground painting, a posted sign as well as appropriate curb
cut outs. We were informed of additional accessible parking spots in the rear and
underground parking lots, however there is no accessible entrance to the building
except through the front. There should be more than one accessible parking space
within close proximity of the main entrance. There are no identifiable pedestrian
walk-ways from the public parking spaces at the rear of the building to the entrances.
Other notes: Great artwork in parts of the building, if this was continued throughout it
would add a very welcoming feel for all community members. We were happy to see
maps and floor plans easily accessible in the lobby area. The AED was clearly labelled
and at a reasonable height. There are lots of signs throughout the building however they
are mostly taped to the walls and not consistently placed.
45
6.5 Libraries
-
WW Lewis Memorial Library
-
Glace Bay - Cape Breton Regional Library
-
James McConnell Memorial Library
-
New Waterford Library - Urban Centre
Featured Building: New Waterford Library - Urban Centre
Entrance/Exit: There are two entrances, one roadside which has zero accessibility and
one on the back side of the building in the parking lot. The "main'' entrance does not
have door openers, and immediately upon entering you are met with a set of stairs. The
stairs do not have adequate contrast or tactile indicators. The entrance leads you to an
open space with the reception desk at your right and the entrance to the library area
ahead of you. The reception desk was a nice low level workspace with many smiling
librarians.
Passage Ways: There were a few directional arrows visible on the floor which support
accessibility, especially in areas that are not wide enough for visitor traffic to move in
both directions. The passageway through the library area was very cluttered and narrow
with many obstacles. The only area without an obvious barrier for a passageway is the
hallway leading to the back entrance/exit which holds the
community computer access space. The library space was crowded with tall turnstyle
book racks and shelving, as well as large 6 foot long planters that took up a third of the
width of the library space. There was lots of artwork throughout the library, however the
wayfinding was almost non-existent. The labels for the genres of books were so small
they weren't recognizable.
Rooms: The library had two sets of steps throughout, bringing you to slightly different
levels of books. Each set of steps had 2 steps. The flooring was a checkerboard tile
which was very hard on the eyes. The lighting was typical and just right, not too
fluorescent, but clear and helpful. There was ample wide open space in the computer
access space which was nice to see.
Furniture & Layout: There were a variety of chairs - some with and without arms. Desks
used for the computer space may be a bit too low and don't have adequate leg
clearance due to their structure - they are an older style desk that has space for the
tower of the computer to tuck in under the desk. The book shelves were about 5 feet
high. Having the shelving go all the way to the floor is very helpful for those who use a
cane to assist in navigating a space and the height of the shelves was helpful in making
the books at an accessible height, although someone in a wheelchair or using a mobility
device would not be able to use this library without a lot of support.
Stairs/Ramps: There were stairs (needing railings on both sides) at the front entrance of
the building. The stairs inside the library space did not have railings, contrast or tactile
indication. The ramp at the rear side of the building does have an accessible door
opener. The user would have to go out this door and then open another entrance with a
door opener. The process of exiting through this door has a number of flooring
transitions and tripping hazards because of the various pieces of flooring. Special
46
attention should be taken when considering the base transition to ground, as a level
difference greater than ½" (13mm) poses a barrier. Once out the door you come to a
very weathered concrete sidewalk type ramp with very aged railings. These railings,
although adequate height and diameter, would not be usable because of the rust and
flaky paint that they are covered in.
Washrooms: There was one washroom, only accessed by key. Although it is a
single-use, gender neutral washroom it has a stall which makes it inaccessible. The
washroom could easily be made accessible if the stall walls were removed. The
bathroom did not have L shaped bars to support transferring to and from the toilet.
Without removing the stall this washroom will not have adequate turn radius to ensure
accessibility. The sink is not accessible because of the full vanity cabinet below the sink.
Removing this and ensuring the pipes are insulated could possibly make the sink
accessible.
Parking: There was one marked accessible parking space streetside in front of the
building which had the ground markings and the posted sign. Otherwise, the building
has a shared parking lot alongside it that has ample public parking but nothing that is
designated specifically for the library.
Other notes: Wayfinding and signage would be very helpful. The staff are very friendly
and knowledgeable. There is a selection of artwork that covers the wall that spans the
passageway to the accessible entrance/exit that is from a local artist. This is a great
archive for the community but we would recommend that it not be the only artwork on
this wall. It does not represent the entire community and depicts a lot of colonial
historical content.
47
6.6 Parks & Playgrounds
-
Miners Memorial Park
-
Westmount Family Park
-
Cantley Village Recreation Complex (Playground)
-
Sydney Mines Field Complex
-
Coxheath Veterans Memorial Playground
-
Wentworth Park & Bandshell
Featured Park & Playground: Sydney Mines Field Complex
This location was not open and we were not able to access the interior of the main
buildings. We were able to review building features such as stairs/ramps/etc, but no
interior spaces.
Main Entrance/Exit: The canteen and stands at the main field were reviewed and a
ramp was present with two landings and an open space at the upper area. Ramp width
is sufficient but tight..In future renovations, careful consideration should be given to
width and size of ramps and landings to allow for improved manoeuvrability. Special
attention should be taken when considering the base transition to ground, as a level
difference greater than ½" (13mm) poses a barrier. A visual marker such as a colour
strip could be added to indicate the transition from inclined to level surface as an aid for
users with visual impairments.
The main entrance to the park area was not clearly marked, which can cause confusion
for visitors as there are multiple entrances. Signage visibility could be improved, the
addition of interpretive signage describing the amenities available in the park and
wayfinding would be an asset to this complex.
Side/Back Entrance/Exit: The out building (Ramblers Hall) or staff building was
reviewed for this portion of the assessment. A small ramp was present to gain access to
the standalone building attached to the parking lot. A cane detectable edge was present
and being that the level difference was less than a 12" (300mm) no protective guard/rail
was required.
Passage Ways: The width of the path present at the main field between stands and
fence has freestanding garbage bins placed along the pathway creating pinch points.
Consideration should be taken when placing obstacles in the path of travel, especially in
high traffic areas.
The biggest improvement that could be undertaken at this complex is a master plan to
connect parking lots to bleachers and secondary amenities to the parking areas such as
the skate park and the Miners Memorial monument. At a minimum, having a dedicated
path from a parking area to the bleachers with a level surface suitable for a person in a
mobility device would be a welcome addition.
Rest areas: No designated rest areas were identified. Most seating was placed around
baseball fields in the form of freestanding bleachers. No pathways were present from
the parking area to the outer bleachers. At the centre of the complex was the Miners
48
Memorial monument. No seating was present in this area and the monument could only
be accessed by steps. A concrete raised platform was present; however the intended
use of this space was not clear. If users are intended to access this space, a ramp and
some information signage should be considered. The addition of bench seating at
intervals around the park would also benefit the use of any older individuals that may
not use the equipment but may accompany someone to the playground.
Equipment: The general condition of the skate park equipment was in fair to good
condition. The biggest concern is getting from the parking area to the equipment itself
as there was no pathway to and from any amenity present.
Rooms: Not applicable as no access was possible.
Furniture & Layout: Moveable furniture is present on the upper level of the bleachers
area. Currently this space is accessible via ramp by wheelchair users, however there is
little space on the upper level for users to situate themselves outside of the path of
traffic. Designating spaces on each side of the large upper level chairs as reserved for
wheelchair users would give users a safe space out of the path of traffic without
removing them from the social atmosphere. (See picture 450.)
Stairs/Ramps: Not applicable as no access was possible. Exterior features noted
above.
Elevators: Not applicable was not present.
Washrooms: Not applicable as no access was possible.
Parking: No barrier free parking was identified either by painted symbols on the ground
or vertical signage. Consideration should be given to adding at least two designated
spaces close to the main baseball diamond. There appears to be individual parking
areas for outer ball fields as well. The addition of a designated accessible space at each
of these lots would also be worthwhile. As previously noted, clearly marked barrier free
parking was not identified at either of the parking lot areas. Even if parking areas are not
typically congested, the addition of designated accessible parking spaces makes the
entire complex more inviting and inclusive.
49
6.7 Trails
-
Coal Town Trail
-
MaryAnn Corbett Trail
Featured Trail: Coal Town Trail
It is an exciting time for accessibility at The Coal Town Trail. A partnership was
announced in January 2022 as part of an investment of $30,000 provided through the
Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) The fund is going to support improving
social interaction, physical activity and most importantly access to services. The results
are two rest areas with benches, waste receptacles and bike racks - improving overall
access to services.
These amenities will support the goal of transitioning the route into a multiuse trail for
walkers, cyclists, horseback riders, snowshoe users and more. Most beneficial is the
fact that persons with disabilities will see improved accessibility thereby encouraging
more residents and visitors to feel welcome upon arriving at the Trail.
Partnership has been key in the revitalization of the Coal Town Trail. This is a great
example of bringing everyone together to make a difference in your community.
In fact a group of local volunteers from The Glace Bay Revitilization Group, Velo Cape
Breton, Cape Breton Roadrunners, Marconi Trails Association and local community
volunteers came together with the purpose of working with the three levels of
government to assess the possibility, address the problems, tackle the challenges and
do whatever is needed to see this project through to completion.
There is an old railway line (Devco) running through and connecting various parts of the
community. The railway line is in very good condition but currently enjoyed mostly by
ATV/dirt bikes as it is not suitable for many other users at this point. With some money,
dedication and support, these partners are working alongside CBRM to convert it to an
able pathway for various recreational and leisure activities (as mentioned above).
The benefits of having this type of infrastructure in the community is enormous and will
bring benefits to almost all residents of this area of the CBRM. Safer, greener and more
accessible is the goal of this commitment.
"Strong, vibrant communities Nova Scotia are a critical part of a robust and inclusive
economic recovery. Investing in shared public spaces like the Coal Town Trail through
Gardiner Mines, Dominion and Glace Bay helps revitalize local economies, boosts
tourism, creates jobs, and gives residents a place to come together safely. "
- The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister
responsible for ACOA
"From providing resources and support to those who need it most, preserving local
history and culture, or being a safe place to gather, community organizations play a key
role in strengthening our communities. For these organizations to continue their work,
they need strong infrastructure. That's why I'm so proud to be part of a Government that
50
understands the importance of supporting infrastructure projects for grassroots,
community organizations like the Coal Town Trail Society."
- Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the
Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton - Canso
As a result of the ongoing work being done to the Trail at the time of this report we are
delaying the assessment to allow for the present commitment to be completed but
encourage a review on the following areas: Entrance/Exit, Passage Ways, Rest Areas,
Amenities, Washrooms and Parking.
51
6.8 Fire Halls & Police Stations
-
New Glace Bay Police Station
-
Sydney Mines Fire Station
-
Cape Breton Regional Police Service (North Division)
-
Sydney Fire Hall
-
North Sydney Volunteer Fire Department
Featured: North Sydney Volunteer Fire Department
Entrance/Exit: It was hard to identify the main entrance of the facility; signage could be
added to identify public access points and which access points are for personnel only.
The side/back entrance/exit was not accessible as it is on the second floor of the
building.
Passageways: Transition between the garage and main building was crowded and as
the garage is the only way to access the facility by wheelchair (as pointed out to us by
staff), having a path of travel that is free of obstructions is vital. This being the only
accessible entrance could create an unsafe situation where the path of travel of a
vehicle could coincide with a person trying to access the barrier free entrance.
Rooms: Transitions between rooms were consistent with no/minimal level changes
within the main space. A quiet room was available for firefighters to rest. The office area
had ample room for manoeuvring and would be able to accommodate a person in a
wheelchair at the dispatch desk. The assembly room was cluttered and had a number of
obstructions laying about. Additional storage would be an asset to this area to ensure
paths of travel are clear of obstructions for persons with visual impairment. The large
room (meeting space) had a number of obstacles placed inside of it. This space should
not be used for storage unless proper lockers/storage changes are built within.
Furniture & Layout: Storage lockers or other means of storage should be built and
fixed to walls to keep storage and items out of pathways and ensure things are kept tidy.
Office furniture in the dispatch area was at accessible heights, and did not cause a
barrier for turn radius or passageway.
Stairs/Ramp: The stairs did not have contrast or tactile indicators. We did not gain
access to the second floor.
Elevators: Not applicable
Washrooms: No barrier free bathroom was present at the facility, existing facilities lack
sufficient space for a person needing mobility assistance. Shower facility did not have a
low profile edge.
Parking: No parking spaces were identified as accessible parking. The path of travel
from either parking lot is at inconsistent heights and does not have adequate signage
explaining how to enter the building if you have mobility issues. Further to this, the only
accessible entrance to this facility is through the garage door as noted above.
52
6.9 Sidewalks, Storefronts, Signs, Public Offices
-
Sidewalks and crosswalks
-
Storefronts
-
Signage
-
Greenspace and other public areas
Feature: Commercial Street, Glace Bay
The photos to the left and below are of a small
public area across the street from the Glace Bay
Library. The image to the left is of a storage
container that is placed in between a small public
parking lot and the sidewalk/crosswalk to get to
the Library.
The photo below is of an accessible picnic table
also located in the same public space with a
string of clear patio style lights hanging across
the image. We aren't sure who this space belongs
to or what community initiative created the
artwork but we were happy to see the space
being embraced by and for the community.
We chose to feature this area as an example of
how a space can, very inexpensively, be made
inclusive, and accessible. The artwork here is
community building, showcasing unity,
acceptance and love for the entire community of
Glace Bay.
The picnic table is close to the sidewalk making it more accessible to someone in a wheelchair
and provides a rest area for folks who are out and about. It also offers a place to spend some
time outside at no cost, enjoying a game with your friends with minimal supplies needed. We
hope when the weather is better, this place will be brought back to life, the lights restrung and
perhaps more spaces like this will be found throughout the region.
53
6.10Tourist Attractions & High Traffic Areas
-
Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion, Civic Centre Storefronts and Boardwalk Kiosks
Featured Tourist Attraction: Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion, Sydney Port & Civic
Centre StoreFront
We visited this location during the winter when the majority of the amenities were
closed. Below is a partial review discussing what we were able to access of the civic
centre, the restaurant area, a retail space, and the outdoor market area - while closed.
Entrance/Exit: The main entrance of the building has a large easily identifiable
entrance way with an awning that reads "Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion ''. There is a very
long and strangely positioned crosswalk that directs pedestrians diagonally from the
sidewalk beyond the parking lot to the main entrance. To enter, visitors can use a wide
set of five stairs, or take the ramp that is available to the right of the stairs. There are
door openers at this entrance, however they aren't easily detected so we would suggest
moving them or making them more noticeable with contrast or signage. It is a smooth
transition into the entrance area where you are greeted with another set of doors (with
door openers). The flooring in this space is a clay colored, textured surface for slip
resistance. The doors are standard width and not too heavy, with pull handles. Once
past the second set of doors, visitors enter the Civic Centre Storefront, where the
flooring is a vinyl plank style flooring.
The rear entrance is a ground level entrance with motion activated doors. There is a
well marked walkway for pedestrian passage to this entrance from the rear of the
building. There is no lip or transition to enter. There are two other entrances/exits, both
of which have ramps that do not meet code and are clearly marked stating "this door is
not wheelchair accessible" followed by "accessibility is available at main entrances". We
recommend that these entrances be updated to meet code or be marked as not for
public use. Both of these entrances/exits lead you directly into the Civic Centre
Storefront area.
Passage Ways: The Civic Centre main floor is an open space with small retail shops
along the back/water side of the building, including an information centre that resembles
a small lighthouse, and washrooms. The second floor is a leased space which houses
Flavour on the Water, a restaurant and bar. The open concept main level provides
ample room to move around without any narrow passageways. There wasn't any clutter
in the footpath that could be a barrier or hazard, there isn't a lot of helpful wayfinding
either. Upstairs was a circular restaurant layout of standard height with bar height tables
that circles the staircase and the lighthouse information centre from the first floor. The
restaurant has a separate area that is accessed through a set of double doors, this
looked like a closed area when we were there so we didn't get to view it. There are also
gendered washroom facilities on this level. The passageway throughout the restaurant
is wide enough to accommodate an accessible turn radius and ease of access.
Fire extinguishers were clearly marked, recessed and encased in the wall as they
should be, fire alarms were visible throughout the building. Fixture height may be too
high, maximum height for fixtures is 1100 mm and fire alarms are 1200mm. An AED
54
was located in the main entrance downstairs and properly labelled, signs were properly
posted upstairs with instructions on where to find the closest AED.
Rooms: Other than the main Civic Centre, there are a number of small retail shops that
were closed. They all have entrances into the main Civic Centre with garage doors and
regular doors that open to the outside marketplace. The retail spaces are small and
contain a lot of product, so it is unlikely they would provide enough clearance for
someone in a wheelchair or someone using a mobility device to move freely within their
space - but we can't say for certain. The information centre/lighthouse has a large
opening that allows people to enter and sit and watch a video.
On both the upper and lower level there is a patio/walkway that encircles the end of the
building. This walkway is ground level without any transitions and wide enough for clear
passage. There are a few seating options and pillars for structural support, none of
which cause barriers for passage, however, some contrast on the pillars could be
helpful for visually impaired individuals. The walkway on the main level leads you to the
platform retail vendor space with ground level access to the shops contained within the
Civic Centre. On the water side of the platform were small multi-coloured huts
containing more retail shops, with ramp access on both sides of them. Again, these
shops are quite small so we would assume they would not provide an adequate turn
radius and wide enough passageways but without access we can't confirm. This retail
platform is wooden and could be difficult to maintain with varied weather conditions,
adding slip resistant texturing to the platform would be recommended. The platform had
uneven ground which could cause barriers and there was no defined edge. There is a
small wooden ramp for shoppers to exit the platform on the far side, the railings are not
to code but appropriate hand rails could be added without impeding in the passage
width.
Furniture & Layout: The seating that is available throughout the Civic Centre is
minimal from what we saw, however the venue was in its off season, so there may be
more options during the busy season. There were a number of adirondack chairs
available outside which are not easy for someone with a mobility issue to get out of
without assistance, we would recommend a variety of seating. The tables and chairs in
the restaurant were at accessible heights, there was bar height seating, but there was
ample amount of standard height as well. The chairs and tables were easily moveable if
needed. There is lots of bench seating in the information centre/lighthouse, some of
which is moveable and would allow for someone in a wheelchair to enter and participate
in the viewing.
Stairs/Ramps: The ramp at the main entrance had proper elevation and accessible
railings (height diameter, etc), however, the railings were not continuous from the
beginning of the ramp to the end so if someone were using the railing to guide them,
they would walk directly into the wall. The railing must be continuous with a defined end
that allows the user to know the ramp has ended. There also needs to be tactile
indication and contrast at the beginning and the end of the ramp. The stairs at the main
entrance are quite wide with railings on either side and there is a section that allows for
someone to have access to railings on both sides. The railings are to code, but the
stairs need to have contrast and tactile indication. As mentioned, the ramp around back
where the retail space is requires accessible handrails, tactile indication and contrast.
55
The stairs inside have tactile indication built into the stairs, however, it is worn and
needs to be updated with contrast and more durable tactile indication. The stairs may
also be too wide and require a middle railing. Additionally, there is a small set of stairs
and a ramp that lead to Pittman Hall, an event space we couldn't access. The stairs and
ramp require adequate tactile indication and contrast on each level and at the beginning
and the end of the ramp.See appendix for accessible stairs.
Elevators: The elevator was standard, accessible width with appropriate button height
and contrast.
Washrooms: The main level washrooms are open access by design and do not require
doors. The upstairs washrooms have doors, but no door openers and are appropriately
weighted for accessibility. Both washrooms had accessible stalls. For the most part the
stalls were accessible, and with the addition of an L shaped transfer bar, the stalls
themselves would provide accessible access. There aren't tanks on the toilets, but there
are toilet seat covers which, when open, provide back support for improved stability.
The handles, coat hooks and locks on the doors are all at accessible heights and
appropriate for equitable access. It is important to ensure that all amenities are at
accessible heights (1100 mm maximum) and that there is knee clearance of at least 685
mm with a height range of 730mm-860mm.
Parking: The parking layout creates hazards as the pedestrian crossing intersects the
driveway/roadway diagonally and there aren't any posted crosswalk or caution signs to
alert cars to the pedestrian crossing. There are accessible parking spaces lining the
front of the building with both painted and posted signage. These spaces are directly
located next to the ramp access to the building and are ground level so they do not
require curb cut outs.
Other notes: There is very little wayfinding at this location. Given that this is a
multi-purpose location with a variety of destinations, wayfinding would be very beneficial
to visitors for both the indoor and outdoor amenities. There are wheelchairs available
for visitors to rent for the day to tour the local area. The wheelchairs are located below
the stairs behind a railing which creates a perimeter around the base of the stairs so
visitors do not injure themselves by walking into it.
56
7.0 Specific Built Environment Barriers
There are a number of accommodations and/or adaptations that can be made to the
built environments throughout the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. We have provided
some specific examples below:
Community Halls and Recreation
Centres
Indian Beach Complex
There have been a number of
accessibility considerations taken here.
We want to emphasize the effort put into
making this space accessible is admirable
-
There are a number of small
transitions that require accessible
access or a cane detectable railing
used.
-
The pebble or gravel ground
covering is inaccessible to anyone
with mobility barriers.
-
There are no contrasting, tactile
indicators or railings on any of the
stairs. These accessibility features
are required no matter how small
the staircase.
-
The pebble or gravel ground is not
a suitable ground covering around
ramps as it moves when walked
on, and leaves barriers and large
transitions between levels as seen
in the photo on the left.
-
More wayfinding would be helpful,
ensuring that signage has
appropriate contrast.
-
Some buildings have doors with
door knobs, they should all be
switched to have consistent door
handles.
-
There were no clearly marked
bathrooms, however there were a
number of buildings so there could
have been one.
-
The canteen counter is too high for
equitable access.
57
Community Halls and Recreation
Centres
Northside Community Pool
-
No automatic door openers at
entrance or bathrooms.
-
No ramp or lift for pool entry.
-
No variety of seating available in
the lobby. Need some seats with
arms on them to assist those with
mobility impairments with stability
and standing up.
-
No wheelchair accessible changing
room or washroom.
-
Narrow doorways.
-
Insufficient signage and
wayfinding.
-
A lot of clutter near the entryway.
-
Heavy doors.
-
Accessible viewing area for the
pool, but narrow hallway with odd
barriers in passageway caused by
structure of wall/ductwork in order
to get to the viewing area.
-
Very little signage or wayfinding
anywhere.
58
Community Halls and Recreation
Centres
Coxheath Recreation Centre
-
Bathroom stalls not accessible
widths for accessibility and
passageways do not provide
enough turn radius or room for
travel.
-
Sinks are not accessible.
Removing the trim around the front
and sides of the vanity would
provide appropriate knee
clearance of 685 mm.
-
Bathroom doorways are too heavy.
-
Ramp provides access to rinkside
accessible seating but ramp is not
to code. The incline is above the
5-6% maximum and the railing is
below the appropriate height, by
almost half.
-
Contrast is needed on the ramp
and on all stairs.
-
Changing rooms could be adapted
to accommodate an accessible
shower by moving the stall wall out
another 8-9" which is possible to
do in its current state.
-
AED is too high. It is currently
approximately 1700 mm high and
the maximum height should be
1100-1200 mm
-
The box office and canteen
counters are too high.
-
Stairs do not have adequate
contrast, tactile indicators or
railings.
59
Community Halls and Recreation
Centres
Emera Centre
-
The parking lot has designated
parking spaces but do not have the
required posted signage.
-
Accessible lift available for visitor
use. However the need to find the
manager and request the key is
quite inconvenient for the person
needing to use it.
-
Wayfinding signage has directional
arrows worn off.
-
Stairs to access the second level
outside of the rink have railings on
both sides but have insufficient
contrast and tactile indication.
-
Bathrooms need L shaped bars,
adequate turn radius and transfer
space, toilet seat covers or tanks
on toilets, adequate knee
clearance on sinks, amenities like
soap, paper towel, etc. at
accessible heights.
-
Stairs to arena seating have
adequate contrast on stairs but
needs contrast at top and bottom
as well. Additionally, tactile
indicator strips should be replaced
regularly and included at the top
and bottom as well.
-
The railing from the arena seating
steps extends beyond the railing of
the adjacent set of stairs leading to
the upper level and causes a
hazard for passersby, especially
those with a visual impairment or
blindness.
-
Ramps and stairs on second level,
outside of the arena space, do not
have appropriate contrast or tactile
indicators and the stairs don't have
railings as required.
60
Community Halls and Recreation
Centres
Centre 200
-
Stairs in the arena do not all have
railings equitable access.
-
Stairs in the arena do not have
tactile indicators.
-
Accessible seating at the top of the
lower bowl seating has an unsafe
railing in front of it. It is less than
610 mm and the appropriate height
is 920 mm.
-
The box office and canteen
counters are too high.
-
There needs to be clear signage
inside the main level bathrooms.
-
Accessible bathroom stalls need
toilet seats or tanks on the back for
improved stability, L shaped
transfer bars.
-
There are no visible rinkside
accessible seats.
-
Rear entrance does not have door
opener buttons.
-
Entrance/Exit doors for the arena
do not have door opener buttons.
-
The main entrance has a slight
incline in before the door open
button and does not have enough
space between the door and where
the incline is for safe access.
-
There is no safe passageway from
the parking lot to the main
entrance unless you travel from the
Casino side of the building along
the sidewalk, and this is a long way
to walk with no rest areas.
-
Wayfinding within the space could
be improved.
61
Municipal Buildings
CBRM City Hall - Council Chambers
-
Not enough space for accessible
passage in the councillor seating
area, plexiglass barriers impede
movement.
-
Councillor tables/desks barely
provide enough knee clearance.
-
Public seating area doesn't offer a
variety of seating options.
-
Podium for public speaking is too
high.
-
Media seating is inaccessible.
City Hall - Office Spaces
-
Clutter and unused items through
most of the office spaces creates
inaccessible work spaces.
-
Cubicles reduce flexibility in space
and limit the opportunity to provide
adequate turn radius.
-
Narrow hallways and thoroughfare
in shared office spaces, like the
planning office.
-
Essential items like sanitizer, soap
dispensers, paper towels, sharps
containers etc are mostly all at
inaccessible heights.
-
The Commissionaire's
desk/counter is too high.
-
Stairs lack contrast and adequate
tactile indicators on each step and
at top and bottom.
-
Parking is inaccessible and
unorganized.
-
Muster point is inaccessible.
62
Libraries
WW Lewis Memorial Library (Louisburg
Library)
We were not able to enter this library as
they were closed even though their
posted hours said they were open. These
notes are based on what we could see
from outside the building.
-
There is no designated parking at
all for this location. There is also
no sidewalk leading to this
building, or on this road so users
must park on the shoulder or in the
driveway which would fit one car.
-
There is very little signage
identifying the building or the
entrance.
-
There is only one entrance/exit to
this building.
-
There is no accessible access for
someone in a wheelchair or with
moderate to severe mobility issues
to be able to access this space.
-
The stairs do not have appropriate
railings, contrast on the stairs or
tactile indicators.
-
The yard has a few picnic tables
and/or seating areas, however the
"yard" is not overly accessible as it
is very uneven ground.
63
Libraries
Glace Bay - Cape Breton Regional
Library
-
The ramp providing accessible
access to the library from the
parking lot requires tactile
indicators and contrast at the
beginning and end of the incline.
Also, due to the wooden material
used for the ramp, it needs to have
anti-slip material on the ramp to
eliminate the risk of injury when
using it when it is wet.
-
There is no signage or wayfinding
identifying this ramp as the
accessible entrance to the library.
The main entrance is on the other
side of the building.
-
There is no safe, identified
passageway from this ramp to the
parking lot/accessible parking
spaces.
-
The door opener button for the
main entrance is not easily located
and should have a sign indicating
where it is.
-
There is a chair in every aisle of
books which causes a barrier and
impedes the turn radius for
someone in a wheelchair.
-
Signage indicating the various
genres on the shelves is not at
accessible heights, nor of
consistent size/font/contrast.
-
Some of the bookshelves are too
high.
-
There were no designated
accessible parking spaces visible
within the parking lot to the rear of
the library.
-
There is another exit on one side
of the building that has two stairs
and a small ramp, neither of which
have a railing or tactile indicators.
64
Libraries
James McConnell Memorial Library
-
The ramp to the main entrance is
too steep, the railings are not to
code, and it needs a landing area
for rest.
-
The main library space is too
cluttered to allow for accessible
passageways.
-
There were benches in each aisle
of books causing a barrier for
anyone using a mobility device or
wheelchair when trying to access
the books.
-
Most of the bookcases were too
high in the main library area and
should model the same height as
the bookcases in the
children/youth section.
-
The book sale area is too crowded
for able bodied people to move
around let alone someone in a
wheelchair.
-
The counters at the library staff
work space are too high for
accessibility.
-
There is no elevator providing
accessible access to the lower
level which serves as the
headquarters for the Cape Breton
Regional Libraries.
-
The entrance/exit to the lower level
is also not accessible.
-
Fire extinguishers are not encased
or recessed in the wall.
-
The door opener buttons for the
main entrance are almost hidden in
their current location and should be
more clearly labelled or moved.
-
The stairs and ramps inside and
outside need adequate contrast
and tactile indicators at the top,
bottom and on all stairs.
65
Parks & Playgrounds
Westmount Family Park
-
No signage or wayfinding
explaining where to park, whether
vehicles are allowed past the gate
or what to expect at the park.
-
Contrast used for the entry sign is
not accessible for those with visual
impairment.
-
There are no sidewalks,
crosswalks or any directional
signage leading you here.
-
There is no designated parking or
even signage referring to parking
being allowed at this location.
-
The entrance from the parking lot
up onto the walking trail and the
fields is not accessible. It's not
stable ground and is quite inclined
- this could possibly be paved or
the incline levelled.
-
Currently there are two fields, one
could easily be converted to a
soccer field with the baseball field
being updated so that the diamond
can be used. Otherwise, we would
suggest completing the fence and
creating an off leash dog park for
the community.
-
There needs to be rest areas along
the trail/path no more than 30
metres apart with ample waste
receptacles also available.
66
Parks & Playgrounds
Cantley Village Recreation Complex
(Playground)
The results of this community playground
project speaks loudly to what can be done
when the community and the Municipality
work together.
While there are commendable accessible
and inclusive components in this
playground there are also some things
that can and should be improved.
-
There is no designated parking at
all, and minimal space streetside
for someone using a mobility
device to safely depart their
vehicle.
-
There isn't any accessible seating
at this playground. The addition of
a variety of rest areas, including
accessible picnic tables would
really improve the quality of time
people spend here.
-
The swing sets and former
playground area that are still very
useful are disconnected from the
new accessible playground. There
needs to be connectivity between
these two areas so that no one is
being excluded from playing
together.
-
There aren't any sidewalks or
crosswalks leading to this
playground for those who are
travelling by foot, bicycle or
wheelchair.
-
There are no washrooms at this
location let alone accessible
bathrooms.
67
Parks & Playgrounds
Coxheath Veterans Memorial Playground
-
Contrast on signage is insufficient
for individuals with low vision/visual
impairment.
-
Garbage receptacles are too high.
-
The terrain in this area is very
uneven and unstable, making it
difficult to walk on and/or travel
across while using a wheelchair or
mobility device.
-
The bridge leading to an unknown
area has a transition from the
ground to the structure preventing
barrier-free access.
-
There are no accessible play
options. Someone with a physical
disability who requires the use of a
mobility device and/or someone
who is visually impaired or blind,
would have no options for
independent play here.
-
The pebbles or gravel used as the
ground for this playground causes
barriers for anyone who is unstable
on their feet.
-
The wooden base that is used to
contain the pebbles/gravel needs
to have an opening on each side to
allow barrier-free access for
anyone who can not independently
use steps to access this area.
-
There is no accessible parking,
sidewalks leading to this space, or
washroom amenities.
68
Parks & Playgrounds
Wentworth Park and Bandshell
-
There is very little wayfinding,
signage or identifying markers. We
didn't realize there was a second
piece to the park on the other side
of the road.
-
The play area does not provide a
lot of options for accessible play.
-
The brick platform of the play area
can cause hazards if not well
maintained.
-
None of the stairs have contrasting
or tactile indicators and some have
wear from the weather that is
creating a hazard.
-
The pathways need to have a cane
detectable edge.
-
There are stones and pathways
near the bandshell that create an
uneven pathway and create
tripping hazards.
-
The duck launching platforms do
not have accessible access as
they currently require someone to
step over a barrier, this could be
rectified with simple ramp
structures so that everyone can
participate.
-
There is an electrical outlet in an
area of green space, this would be
a great place for a resting area so
someone could charge their
assistive technology and/or their
electric scooter.
69
Trails
Coal Town Trail
-
Presently under construction at
various stages of completion.
-
Working on unpaved walkways
-
Work underway to provide ease of
access from curbs and sidewalks
-
At the entry point behind Town Hall
walking along the trail, there was no
signage for directions.
-
No waste receptacles for garbage or
washrooms that was noticed at the
earlier portions of the trail connecting
to the downtown corridor.
-
Parking is available at various points
along the trail.
70
Trails
MaryAnn Corbett Trail
-
Well maintained and paved along the
trail.
-
Very accessible from the parking lot.
-
Adequate signage providing directions
and information on the trail and
surrounding areas accessible via the
trail.
-
No washrooms or waste receptacles
along the first point of entry into the
trail (approx the first 1km of the trail).
- Very accessible via wheelchair,
walker, or other assisted mobile
devices and equipment.
71
Fire Halls & Police Stations
New Glace Bay Police Station
-
No direct crosswalk access to the
police station. There are curb cuts
directly across from it, with no
crosswalk. And a crosswalk up the
road from it, with no signage
identifying it. (It had apparently
blown down in the weather.)
-
There not much room to ensure
you are out of the way when the
door opens.
-
The phone for emergency use
outside of the station is a bit too
high.
-
There was no posted accessible
parking sign to identify the parking
space as being accessible if there
was snow on the ground, or
vehicles parked over the markings
on the ground.
-
The gender neutral accessible
washroom was great to see, the
only recommendations would be to
have door opener buttons and to
ensure that the pipes to the sink
are properly insulated to prevent
scalding.
72
Fire Halls & Police Stations
Cape Breton Regional Police Service
(North Division)
-
Contrast needs to be added to all
stairs to assist individuals with
visual impairment.
-
The side/back entrance was not
accessible, only stairs were
present.
-
Barrier free parking was on the
roadside creating an area of
concern when transitioning from
vehicle as traffic is present.
-
The only room we could access
was the lobby. The service
window was at an appropriate
height for a person using a mobility
device. Plexiglass at reception
makes hearing the reception officer
difficult, even for persons without
hearing loss. An intercom could be
added that would allow the
maintenance of the plexiglass
shielding and mitigate
communication barriers.
-
The lobby had enough room to
manoeuvre. A focus on a range of
seating types would be a welcome
addition to the space. For example,
seats that provide adequate kick
space to allow people to stand with
ease.
-
The ramp and stairs, as seen to
the left, need contrast and tactile
indicators.
73
Fire Halls & Police Stations
Sydney Fire Hall
The new Sydney Fire Hall is a beautifully
thought out building providing full
accessibility anywhere the public would
travel. The overall space allows for
accessible movement and turn radius,
however there are some places, where
the public would not typically access, that
are not accessible to all.
-
The stairs, as seen to the left,
require better contrast, in bright
colours, and new tactile indicator
strips.
-
The kitchen area, which we believe
is strictly for those employed at the
station, does not have accessible
counter workspace and a lot of
over the counter storage at
inaccessible heights.
-
The stairs need to have railings
available on both sides of the
stairs.
-
The turn radius in the bathrooms is
impeded by the moveable added
storage cabinet that is located in
most of the washrooms. We
recommend removing this to
improve upon the space provided.
-
There is an elevator at this
location, however they are unable
to use it at this time due to some
technical issues with the generator
override system.
-
There are no posted signs
identifying the accessible parking
spaces.
74
Sidewalks, Crosswalks, Storefronts,
and Signs
Glace Bay
There are more sidewalks available in
Glace Bay than most of the regions we
visited, however the safe connectivity
needs work.
-
Sidewalks do not all have curb
cut-outs at crosswalk intersections
or where there are accessible
parking spaces.
-
There are curb cut-outs where one
sidewalk ends and another begins,
without marked crosswalks (no
painted markings, posted signs,
auditory or visual signals)
-
There is insufficient wayfinding
signage throughout the region, and
Glace Bay is no exception. More
effort needs to be made to provide
needed information for the public
to know where and how to find the
essential services and amenities
they require.
Louisburg Map
Signage and wayfinding information
needs to be accessible.
-
Adequate contrast for all text and
necessary information like
directional markings, icons and
legends.
-
Font size should be a minimum of
16 pt for large print documents to
be accessible to everyone.
-
Ensure signage and wayfinding is
clear and concise, making it easy
to read.
75
Sidewalks, Storefronts, Signs, Public
Offices
Crosswalk and Curb Cut in New
Waterford
Crosswalks like these have been seen
throughout the CBRM region where:
-
The markings are wearing off the
road.
-
There are no posted signs.
-
Curb cuts are either in the wrong
spot or they are non-existent.
-
No visual or auditory signals.
-
There is no identified street side
parking so cars are parked
dangerously close to the crosswalk
impeding on the visibility of
someone walking across the
crosswalk for oncoming traffic.
These signs were found in the Coxheath
Recreation Centre, and very similar signs
were found in the bathroom at the CBRM
City Hall.
Inconsistent signage has been found
throughout the region. In addition to
consistent branding, having a standard for
signs eliminates the opportunity for signs
to get posted that are insufficient or
inaccessible.
Overlaying text over an image makes the
font difficult to read. As seen in the image
to the right, the main message is lost
because of the overlay. This sign could be
made accessible by:
-
Placing a smaller CBRM logo in
one of the corners of the sign.
-
Using black for all fonts, or atleast
a more distinct shade of red, if red
is necessary - this shade of red is
somewhat faded.
-
Ensuring all fonts are at least 16
pt.
76
Tourist Attractions & High Traffic
Areas
The Big Fiddle
The Big Fiddle is well known as an iconic
destination for Sydney visitors and a great
photo opportunity.
-
It is unclear due to lack of signage
if this is a pedestrian only area or if
vehicles have access to this space.
-
The Big Chair next to The Big
Fiddle is also a great photo
opportunity, however inaccessible
to anyone who requires mobility
support.
-
The railings around the base of
The Big Fiddle are an accessible
height and diameter and we were
pleased to see the contrast around
the base of The Big Fiddles
platform.
-
These accessible parking spaces
are not clearly marked. The posted
signs should be on posts and
approximately 4 feet off the ground
for optimal visibility. They also
require painted markings on the
ground to show their accessible
designation.
-
There isn't any safe passage from
these parking spots to the wharf,
the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion,
The Big Fiddle or anywhere as
someone parking here would have
to walk through the line of traffic to
get to the crosswalk or any of the
aforementioned places.
77
Tourist Attractions & High Traffic
Areas
Sydney & Louisbourg Railway Museum
We weren't able to gain access to view
the museum itself but were able to take a
look around at the outdoor sites.
-
There are a lot of ramps providing
access to the many trains and
attractions at this historical site. As
you can tell in the photos, the
surfaces of these ramps and
walkways become very slippery
with varied weather, a texture
surface for anti-slip should be
applied.
-
Some of the ramps are worn out
from weather and need repair.
-
Most of the trains/railcar exhibits
couldn't be accessed by
wheelchair, we hope there are
some more tangible items in the
museum that people can touch and
experience.
-
The cane detectable railing/ledge
does not cover all of the ramps or
walkways. This needs to be
improved.
-
Any areas that are more than 200
mm off of the ground should have
a railing, not just the cane
detectable railing.
-
The signs and information panels
provided at this location do not
have appropriate contrast and can
get quite worn over time. Proper
maintenance of these pieces is
needed to ensure equitable access
to this historical tourist attraction.
78
Tourist Attractions & High Traffic
Areas
Miners Museum and Miners Memorial
Park
The park, in its current state, would not be
passable for someone with a mobility
disability. The ground is very unstable and
uneven. Visitors enter through a rot iron
archway passing over a gravel walkway
into a grassy field type area. Visitors
would benefit greatly from a wooden
boardwalk being put here to allow for
ease of access.
There are a number of large pieces of
mining equipment throughout the area
that are on exhibit with informative panels
explaining their use in the mining
industries. We would recommend the font
be larger and with better contrast when,
and if, they are ever replaced.
There were a number of access points to
the Miners Museum building.
-
The brick entryway to the ramp
causes tripping hazards when not
maintained.
-
The ramp and staircase require
railings on both sides of the ramp.
-
The ramp and stairs both require
contrast and tactile indicators, at
the beginning and the end of the
ramp and staircase, and on each
stair.
-
The entrance has door openers,
but there are exhibits directly
inside the entry way that impede
the passageway and turn radius
required in this space.
79
8.1 TIMELINE VS PRIORITY PHASING
Given that we know there are many different strategic plans guiding changes that are
underway throughout the Cape Breton Regional Municipality we have opted to provide
timelines for these recommendations rather than prioritizing them. As we have noted
many times throughout this report, and as the community is fully aware - immediate
action needs to be taken to alleviate the barriers created by much of the built
environment at Cape Breton Regional Municipality. We have not addressed these
overarching issues in our recommendations but identified how programs, services and
physical space can be adapted to alleviate these barriers in the meantime. Below are
reasonable recommendations within suggested time frames that we feel can
significantly improve upon the accessibility of the environment of Cape Breton Regional
Municipality while building a sense of trust and community. When addressing these
recommendations keep in mind these five steps for implementation as identified in
Access By Design 2030.
1)
Developing the Standards: using recommended benchmarks, develop
standards as to how implementation within the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality structure will occur.
2)
Build Capacity and Awareness: All Cape Breton Regional Municipality staff
build capacity through training. Cape Breton Regional Municipality promotes
inclusive priorities with an awareness campaign.
3)
Collaborate and Support: in collaboration with marginalized groups and
agencies, build relationships of mutual respect and support.
4)
Compliance and Enforcement: based on the developed standards and using
the recommended benchmarks, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality
implements these standards and clearly identifies compliance and enforcement
strategies.
5)
Monitor and Evaluate: as with any growth and change it is essential to revisit,
reassess and revise policy and implementation.
8.2 Immediate (within the next two years)
These recommendations are immediate as they include policy and attitudinal barriers,
which require less structural change to the environment at Cape Breton Regional
Municipality as well as Built Environment recommendations focused on making minor
adjustments to current structures that will increase accessibility, all of which are eligible
for provincial funding.
-
Determine core Diversity, Equity and Inclusion competencies for each level of
staff and create an implementation plan for training. Train current employees,
and include this essential learning as part of your onboarding process for all new
staff.
-
Revisit and revise hiring and workplace accommodation policies and ensure they
are inclusive.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/campaigns/hiring-per
sons-disabilities.html
-
Appoint a Director of Compliance or designate the role to an existing position
(this could be a part of the Accessibility Coordinator and Committee role) to focus
on accessibility compliance. Revisit by-laws and include the requirement for
80
designated accessible parking spaces for all new developments.
-
As the Taxi Authority in the region, update the by-laws to require a minimum
percentage of fleet to be accessible vehicles in order to renew licences.
-
Review brand guidelines and update ensuring accessible font, font size, and
contrast are included.
-
Create an Accessible Signage Standard.
-
Create an accessibility awareness campaign, and ensure that accessibility is
seen as a priority.
-
Re-evaluate the various systems and platforms that are being used for services
and communication and ensure they work efficiently with assistive technology.
-
Create an Accessible Communication Standard. Ensure all communication is
delivered in accessible formats and can support the use of assistive technology.
-
Create a standard and implementation plan for crosswalks and sidewalk
installation and maintenance ensuring accessible, safe, connectivity between
amenities and areas of the community. The standard should define minimal
requirements for varying levels of usage for example: downtown core, connective
routes from downtown outward, and residential areas significantly outside of the
downtown core.
-
Review hours for public service sand consider extending where appropriate and
possible.
-
Creating opportunities for community building that do not require physical activity.
Use the communities ample access to parks and green space to host community
events in place.
-
Create an Accessible Playground Standard, or update an existing standard for
playgrounds that ensures all new playgrounds are built to accessibility standards
and create a plan for updating or decommissioning existing playgrounds.
-
Create a plan to ensure all municipal buildings will adhere to the built
environment standard before 2030 by prioritizing spaces according to impact.
-
Update by-laws to ensure all new builds (government and private) have to
adhere to accessibility standards.
-
Adopt a recreation policy that commits to ensuring equitable access to
recreational programs for everyone. For programs that aren't free, CBRM has a
funding access program that allows those who cannot afford fees reduced or
waived.
-
Adjust the height of everything that needs to be used regularly or in an
emergency to an accessible height of 1100mm (ie fire extinguishers, paper towel,
soap, etc)
-
Ensure there are visual and auditory fire alarms and that emergency plans with
muster stations for people in wheelchairs are clearly visible and on each floor.
8.3 Short Term (within 2-6 years)
-
Implement the plan for crosswalks and sidewalk installation and maintenance
ensuring accessible, safe, connectivity between amenities and areas of the
community.
-
Ensure all communication is delivered according to the new accessible
communication standard and can exceed the current WCAG standards.
-
Ensure all regionally owned built environments have accessible wayfinding,
signage, maps, floor plans etc. as outlined in the Accessible Signage Standard.
81
-
Build, replace, update or decommission playgrounds according to the Accessible
Playground Standard and implementation plan.
-
Connect the main amenities of stores, recreational facilities and outdoor spaces
with well lit and clearly marked pathways to encourage the use of the spaces and
promote active transportation, aligning with the Active Transportation Plan.
-
Start implementing the plan for the built environments in the region to adhere to
the built environment standard.
-
Promote acceptance by implementing an accessibility policy for all new
business/builds or renovations. Provide incentives (tax cuts for certain time
periods) for businesses who abide by the policy instead of fining for
non-compliance.
8.4 Opportunity Based Recommendations
-
Make available information listing non-profit agencies offering free or affordable
assistive devices.
-
Promote and support organizations within your community that support and
represent all marginalized communities
-
Partner with disability support organizations and leverage provincial and federal
funding streams to ensure adequate staffing for roles that provide support ie.
adequate staffing for day camp and recreation programs in order to
accommodate children with disabilities.
82
GRATITUDE:
This report was made possible with much appreciation for commitment to change by
CBRM Staff, Council, Regional Accessibility Committee and the community as a whole
in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, past and present.
We are very grateful for the time the Cape Breton Regional Municipality team has taken
to accommodate us during the review as well as to the members of the community who
engaged us in discussions regarding making their communities accessible and
inclusive.
We have listed a number of resources in the appendices for you to refer to for quick
reference. We would love to continue to work with the Cape Breton Regional
Municipality to help you obtain the training needed to be leaders in next practice.
We wish you the very best with this process and look forward to watching you move
accessibility forward with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
Sincerely,
Tova Sherman
On behalf of the entire reachAbility Association team
83
9.1 APPENDIX
9.2 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Accessibility: The prevention and removal of barriers (physical, attitudinal,
technological, or system) to allow equitable participation for persons with disabilities or
others who experience barriers to accessibility.1
Accessibility Act: The provincial legislation enacted in 2017 to prevent and remove
barriers to accessibility for people with disabilities. It has a goal of an accessible Nova
Scotia by 2030. The Act outlines some responsibilities for municipalities, universities,
and other entities, including developing accessibility plans and establishing an
accessibility committee. It allows the Government to develop and implement standards
(regulations) in education, the built environment, the delivery and receipt of goods and
services, transportation, information,communication, and employment.1
Accessible Customer Service: Ensuring all persons have the same opportunity to
seek, obtain, use or benefit from the service. Accessible services are easy for all people
to use, interact with, and understand.1
Accommodation: A means of preventing or removing barriers that impede a person
from participating fully in a way that is responsive to their own unique circumstances.
The principles of accommodation involve three factors: dignity, individualization and
inclusion.3
Barrier: Anything that hinders or challenges the full and effective participation in society.
Barriers can be physical, attitudinal, technological, or systemic (policy or practice).
Accessibility barriers may be related to areas such as employment, education, the built
environment, transportation, the delivery and receipt of goods and services, or
information and communications.1
Barrier-Free: A barrier-free environment is one which enables people with disabilities to
move about safely and freely and use all facilities within the built environment, roads,
parks, gardens and other places.
Communication Access Real-Time (CART): The professionally translated
transcription of speech to text through a third party. It enables culturally Deaf, oral deaf,
deafened and hard of hearing people to have visual access to the spoken word. CART
services can be provided on-site or remotely.8
Deaf: A sociological term referring to those individuals who are medically deaf or hard
of hearing who identify with and participate in the culture, society, and language of Deaf
people, which is based on Sign language.3
Disability: A physical, mental, intellectual, learning or sensory impairment, including an
episodic disability, that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders an individual's full and
3 Ontario Human Rights Commission
https://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/guidelines-accessible-education/principles-accommodation#fn9
84
effective participation in society.3.1
Equity/Equitable: Equity is fair treatment of individuals, acknowledging and making
provisions for their differences by ensuring that employment and educational processes
are free from systemic barriers. Equity does not mean ignoring differences and treating
everyone the same. Instead it means recognizing and valuing differences, removing
systemic barriers and accommodating individual differences, as needed.4
First Voice: First voice perspectives generally refer to the knowledge generated by
persons with disabilities and others who experience barriers to accessibility that
emerges from lived experience, community connections, knowledge traditions, and
scholarly activities that are typically undervalued and under-represented.1
Inclusion: The process of improving the terms of participation in society, particularly for
individuals or groups of individuals who are disadvantaged or under-represented,
through enhancing opportunities, access to resources, voice and respect for rights. This
creates a sense of belonging, promotes trust, fights exclusion and marginalization and
offers the opportunity of upward mobility and results in increased social cohesion.5
Marginalized Populations: Groups and communities that experience discrimination
and exclusion (social, political and economic) because of unequal power relationships
across economic, political, social and cultural dimensions.11
Meaningful Access: When referring to the built environment, meaningful access is the
intent to meet the needs of all users of a site (a building or outdoor space) regardless of
their ability. It means that not only individual features of a site, such as an entrance or
washroom, must be accessible, but the entire experience throughout.1
Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC): The Accessibility Advisory Committee was
formed in 2021 by members of the community who identify as being people with
disabilities and/or lived experience, members of CBRM staff and members of CBRM
Council. The committee advises CBRM Council on the elimination of barriers faced by
people with disabilities and acts as a liaison with external bodies on barriers to
participation in public life and to the achievement of social, cultural and economic
well-being of people with disabilities.
Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC): A national rating
system that measures and certifies the level of meaningful access of buildings and sites.
It measures the level of meaningful access beyond building code, and is based upon
the holistic user experience of people with varying disabilities affecting their mobility,
vision, and hearing.7
Universal Design: Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment
so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all
people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. 7
Universal Design for Learning (UDL): An educational approach to designing
instructional goals, assessments, methods and materials, and policies that work for a
diversity of learners - can be customized and adjusted for individual student needs.1
85
References for Glossary
1 Nova Scotia Post Secondary Framework
3 Nova Scotia Accessibility Act
5 Nova Scotia Community College Educational Equity Policy
6 Scorgie, K. & Forlin, C. (2019). Promoting Social Inclusion: Co-Creating Environments
that Foster Equity and Belonging. P. 153.
7 Rick Hansen Foundation
8 Canadian Hearing Services
11 National Collaborating Centre for Determinants of Health
86
9.3 STAIRS
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of stairs, we recommend referring to section 5.4 of the National Standard for
examples, some of which we have included below.
87
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
88
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
89
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
90
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
91
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
92
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
93
9.2 STAIRS (cont'd)
94
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of accessible routes, we recommend referring to section 5.1 of the National
Standard for examples, some of which, we have included below.
95
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES (cont'd)
96
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES (cont'd)
97
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES (cont'd)
98
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES (cont'd)
99
9.3 ACCESSIBLE INTERIOR ROUTES (cont'd)
100
9.4 PARKING
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of designated accessible parking, we recommend referring to section 9.4 of the
National Standard for examples, some of which, we have included below.
101
9.4 PARKING (cont'd)
102
9.4 PARKING (cont'd)
103
9.4 PARKING (cont'd)
104
9.4 PARKING (cont'd)
105
9.5 RAMPS
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of ramps, we recommend referring to section 5.5 of the National Standard for
examples, some of which, we have included below.
106
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
107
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
108
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
109
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
110
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
111
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
112
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
113
9.5 RAMPS (cont'd)
114
9.6 WASHROOMS
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of washrooms, we recommend referring to section 6.2 of the National Standard
for examples, some of which, we have included below.
115
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
116
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
117
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
118
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
119
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
120
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
121
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
122
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
123
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
124
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
125
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
126
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
127
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
128
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
129
9.6 WASHROOMS (cont'd)
130
9.7 SEATING
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. For all
aspects of seating, we recommend referring to section 6.7 of the National Standard for
examples, some of which, we have included below.
131
9.7 SEATING (cont'd)
132
9.8 ELEVATORS
As the Built Environment Standard for the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) is still
under development we recommended following the standard set out by the National
Standard of Canada in B651-18, Accessible Design for the Built Environment. However,
the National Standard of Canada does not provide information around elevators. For all
aspects of elevators, we recommend referring to the bi-national standard ASME
A171.1-2016/CSA B44-16, set out as a joint effort between the American Society of
Mechanical Engineers and the Canadian Standards Association. This standard is for all
jurisdictions enforcing the National Building Code of Canada. We have included the
document below for reference.
133
134
9.8 ELEVATORS (cont'd)
135
9.8 ELEVATORS (cont'd)
136
9.8 ELEVATORS (cont'd)
137
9.8 ELEVATORS (cont'd)
138
9.8 ELEVATORS (cont'd)
139
9.9 ACCESSIBLE BOAT LAUNCHES
140
141
10.1 RESOURCES
10.2 FUNDING AND COMMUNITY BASED RESOURCES
Business Financial Support Options
Small Business ACCESS-Ability Grant Program
Small businesses can apply for a cost-shared grant to make accessibility-related
improvements. Improvements can be for clients and customers, for employees, or both.
Five categories of funding
Built Environment:
Removing physical barriers for persons to access business services, by
installing ramps, accessible washrooms, door openers, and other projects.
Accessible Communications Services:
Ensuring that all customers, clients, and employees can access
information related to a business.
Assistive Devices:
Ensuring that employees and consumers who are person with disabilities
have the devices they need to effectively do their jobs and access places
of business.
Universal Design Capacity Building:
Training in the field of Universal Design, both for technical services
professionals and for persons with disabilities wishing to better understand
its value.
Accessible Transportation:
Providing support for businesses to improve access to transportation
services.
For more information visit:
https://cch.novascotia.ca/small-business-access-ability-grant-program
Community ACCESS-Ability Program
The Community ACCESS-Ability Program reflects the Government of Nova Scotia's
commitment to persons with disabilities by providing equal opportunity and improved
access to community facilities. This program offers cost-shared grants to community
groups for accessibility related capital improvements. The grants cover up to two-thirds
of the direct and indirect costs of renovations, installations, and/or equipment to a
maximum of $10,000. The sponsoring organization must raise at least one-third of the
funding from other sources. Organizations can receive funding for one project per year
under the program.
Who can apply?
-
Non-profit community organizations
-
Municipalities
142
For more information visit:
https://cch.novascotia.ca/investing-our-future/community-funding-and-awards/communit
y-access-ability-program
Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive
Apply now online at:
https://novascotia.ca/programs/workplace-innovation-productivity-skills-incentive
Applications for the WIPSI program may be submitted by individual businesses or by an
organization/ association on behalf of a group of businesses. WIPSI supplements
employer contributions to train full-time staff * (permanently located in Nova Scotia) to
-
Improve productivity and profitability
-
Increase innovation
-
Adapt to new technology, machinery and equipment, or work processes
-
Increase inter-provincial and international competitiveness; and Foster workplace
diversity.
* Full-time seasonal employees may be considered.
If you identify a training opportunity that would provide new and/or incremental skills to
your workforce which will result in
-
A new direction or expansion to your core operations; and
-
Business and/or sector growth and profitability, you could be eligible for WIPSI
funding.
FUNDING
If you are a business in Nova Scotia with less than 50 employees, you may be eligible
for up to 100% of your training costs to be covered up to $10,000. For larger
businesses, WIPSI provides up to 50% of direct training costs. WIPSI may also cover
other expenses such as travel, books for participants and accommodation costs for
persons with disabilities.
Funding Options for Hiring
Resources for employers and government agencies when it comes to
accommodations etc.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/campaigns/hiring-persons-di
sabilities.html
START Program (applies to hiring unemployed folks)
https://novascotia.ca/programs/start/
Canada Summer Jobs (applications start april 2022)
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-su
mmer-jobs.html
143
Co-op Education Incentive (Employers offering career-related opportunities for
co-op students)
https://novascotia.ca/programs/co-op-education-incentive/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsfWxpZ
2Y9QIVBZJbCh2rkQBVEAAYASAAEgJNE_D_BwE
Student Summer Skill Incentive (SKILL) (if a non profit wanted to hire a post
secondary student for a summer job)
https://novascotia.ca/programs/student-summer-skills-incentive/
Energy Training Program (if hiring a student or post secondary if the applicant is
in the energy sector)
https://energy.novascotia.ca/industry-development/energy-training-program
ECO Canada Youth Placement Program (youth under 30 placement funding in
environmentally related positions relating to STEM and natural resources - 3
different streams available)
https://eco.ca/environmental-professionals/employment-funding-and-job-board/apply-for
-job-funding/
Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) (for highly skilled workers or
international graduates to fill labour gaps/needs)
https://novascotiaimmigration.com/help-for-employers/atlantic-immigration-program/
COVID related - employer can only claim ONE of the below, whichever grants
them the most funding
Canada Recovery Hiring Program (only valid till May 7 2022)
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/wage-rent-subsidies/recovery-hiring
-program.html
Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program (HHBRP) (tourism/hospitality related,
valid till May 7 2022)
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/wage-rent-subsidies/hardest-hit-bus
iness-recovery-program.html
Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program (THRP) (tourism, hospitality, arts,
entertainment and recreation related, valid till May 7 2022)
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/wage-rent-subsidies/tourism-hospit
ality-recovery-program.html
Database provided by the Sobeys School of Business at SMU
https://www.smu.ca/webfiles/FundingOptionsforEmployers.pdf
Multiple options from wage subsidies to grants for hiring (covers all of Canada,
not just ns)
https://fundinghq.ca/small-business-employee-hiring-funding
144
10.3 TRAINING & EDUCATION
Rick Hansen Foundation - Making the Business Case for Accessibility
Homepage | Rick Hansen Foundation
-
https://www.rickhansen.com/sites/default/files/2018-08/cboc-final-report-feb2018-access
ible-1.pdf
CSA Group B651-18 - ACCESSIBLE DESIGN FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
https://www.orderline.com/b651-18-accessible-design-for-the-built-environment?gclid=C
jwKCAiA1eKBBhBZEiwAX3gql45F1tUoNwvXkt5dlSl-AkfBP7gIDvCICf1slWQ8PI7eRXm
Z-YhUTRoCF7oQAvD_BwE
Halifax Today: Socetys Ableism Exposed
https://www.halifaxtoday.ca/local-news/societys-ableism-exposed-by-covid-19-pandemic
-disability-rights-advocate-2857247
https://www.halifax.ca/sites/default/files/documents/city-hall/Diversity%20%26amp%3B
%20Inclusion%20Framework_Final%20Version%20Aug%203_External.pdf - Diversity &
Inclusion Framework, Halifax: identifies
CBC Spark Article and Podcast: Designing for Disability
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/spark/disabled-people-want-disability-design-not-disability-don
gles-1.5353131/designing-for-disability-full-episode-transcript-1.5353287
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Truth and Reconciliation Commission
of Canada (TRC) https://nctr.ca/map.php
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples - Reconciliation Tool Kit
www.abo-peoples.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/WP-Revised-Reconciliation-Toolkit_
Digital_May12-compressed.pdf (abo-peoples.org)
The Final Report of the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and
Girls:
Final Report | MMIWG (mmiwg-ffada.ca) https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/final-report/
Unconscious Bias and Emotional Intelligence for Leaders Training: In alignment with the
identified priorities of Access By Design 2030 and the Deputy Minister's Commitments
(released in October 2020) from the Federal Government of Canada, we recommend
that NSCAD University as per capacity building, complete Unconscious Bias/Emotional
Intelligence Training.
Working with Indigenous Peoples - 2018, Acadia University
https://indigenous.acadiau.ca/tl_files/sites/indigenous/Acadia-IndigProtocolsHandbook_
27February2018.pdf