First off, I'd like to make a positive comment about our experience taking our wheelchair bound son to Powell River Logger Sports.
A special thanks to volunteers who advocated for those with disabilities to ensure that there was adequate designated wheelchair parking. That area was well marked and monitored, and appreciated by those who were able to park safely and close to the festivities.
These small things mean so much to those who struggle with disabilities. So many take access for granted and have no idea how difficult it is to navigate a wheeled device in a world that is meant for independence. It remains unfortunate, however, that our son’s enjoyment of the event was restricted to the chainsaw carvers.
It remains a dream that someday a safely navigable pathway will be established so those with mobility issues are able to participate in the entire event, or even go for a walk along the beachfront. I watch with envy the news that White Rock has installed a new accessibility mat on their pier so people can enjoy it no matter what their physical capabilities. Oh what a dream to be able to even get to the Willingdon Beach dock.
We had not planned to attend the Blackberry Festival street party because of a lack of safe parking for those with disabilities. Upon reading that there would be designated wheelchair accessible parking, we decided to take our son. How disappointing it was to arrive early to find that that entire parking area was full.
It was a great idea which didn't work well, and rather than deny him attending the event, we parked along the side of the highway by Willingdon Beach and pushed him along the roadway.
I'm sure Rotary had a great vision, but with barricades and signage being put in place after 4 pm, the parking lot was full of vehicles which had been parked earlier and left there. We observed a senior lady pull into that area, offload her husband with his walker and tell him to sit there while she found a parking spot. I'm sure there were others who were also disappointed.
We as a community need to make our community user friendly for all, no matter what their ability or disability. I speak for all who rely on a wheeled device to navigate in their everyday lives.
If we can improve access for those with mobility issues, we will also improve access for those with visual, hearing or mental health issues, and even those who can mobilize freely without any disability. A better community for all.
I urge everyone who has concerns about access to speak up and go public. The more folks who are willing to put their concerns forward, potentially the landscape will change for the better.
Marg Hodgins is a City of Powell River resident.
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