Accessibility audit

Sam Graham, a wheelchair user, and SWT board member Stephen Rudnicki conducting their accessibility audit near the Wakefield covered bridge.

In October 2023, Sentiers Wakefield Trails had the opportunity to be part of an accessibility audit thanks to Trans Canada Trails’ Trail Accessibility Mapping Program.

Trans Canada Trails put us in touch with AccessNow, a non-profit organization “building a movement that celebrates access by connecting people to inclusive, welcoming places for all.” AccessNow is also an app and an online map that people with different abilities can use to find out the extent to which trails, buildings or transportation are accessible.

Accessibility refers to the design of products, devices, services, or environments for people who experience disabilities (source). Accessibility improves spaces and experiences for everyone, for example, people pushing children in strollers, or those with a temporary disability such as a broken leg.

Sam Graham, a wheelchair user, and his wife, Madeline Turriff, both volunteers with Access Now, joined Sentiers Wakefield Trails Board Member Stephen Rudnicki for a MapMission. They met at P17 in the Gatineau Park and followed the trail down Mill Road, along the boardwalk and Riverside trail, to the covered bridge. All the information collected will be documented and shared. Sentier Wakefield Trails will have a chance to review the data and recommendations on how to improve the accessibility of the trails. Stay tuned!

Wondering if your business or service is accessible to people with disabilities? Book your MapMission today!