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Our Objective:

To enhance accessibility by providing individuals with mobility restrictions access to beaches.

What is the estimated cost of this project?:

Approximately $15,000

Promote inclusivity:

Ensure that beaches are welcoming and accessible to all members of the community.

Improve quality of life: Enable individuals with limited mobility to enjoy recreational activities and socialize with friends and family at the beach.

Components of the Project: 

Wheelchair Beach Mats:

These mats are durable, non-slip pathways that enable wheelchairs to effortlessly traverse sandy or uneven terrain. They are typically made of reinforced polyester or PVC, providing stability and traction for wheelchairs.

Floating Wheelchairs: Specifically designed for beach environments, floating wheelchairs are buoyant, waterproof chairs that allow individuals to navigate in shallow waters. They offer stability and support, enabling users to enjoy swimming and water activities with ease. 

Project Implementation Plan: 

Procurement:

• Select a reputable supplier for wheelchair beach mats and floating wheelchairs. Obtain quotes and negotiate contracts to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Installation and Maintenance:
• Work with the municipality to install wheelchair beach mats at designated beach access points. Ensure proper anchoring and maintenance for durability and safety.The ramps will be secured into the ground by the parks and recreation crew every year. They are designed to be in large communities, so they are designed to mitigate theft and vandalism. Prescott has a ramp they have apparently had great success with their installation. During the hours where the lifeguards are present, the wheelchairs will be monitored by the lifeguards. During the times that the beaches are still open at the end of the summer, but there will be no lifeguards on site, there is a plan to store them in the lending  library so they can be loaned out through that program for that period of the year.  Both beaches have storage units for the wheelchairs on site. The ramps are rolled up at the end of the year and they will be stored in the municipality storage facility for the winter.

Training and Awareness:

Provide training sessions for beach staff on how to assist individuals using the wheelchair beach mats and floating wheelchairs. Raise awareness among beachgoers about the availability and importance of accessible beach facilities. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a system for monitoring the usage and condition of the wheelchair beach mats and floating wheelchairs. Gather feedback from users and stakeholders to assess the initiative's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Promotion and Outreach:

• Launch a public awareness campaign to highlight the importance of accessible beaches and showcase the new wheelchair beach mats and floating wheelchairs.
• To reach diverse audiences and encourage participation, utilize various communication channels, including social media, local newspapers, and community events.

Conclusion:

The Accessible Beach Initiative aims to break down barriers to beach access and create welcoming environments where everyone can enjoy the beauty of the St. Lawrence River. By investing in wheelchair beach mats and floating wheelchairs, we can promote inclusivity, enhance the quality of life, and foster a sense of belonging for individuals with limited mobility in our communities.