Accessibility Plan: 2018 - 2023

Section 1: Message from Regional Chair, Jim Bradley

Meeting and exceeding the Provincial accessibility standards is an important part of all we do at Niagara Region. When the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 was introduced, we immediately undertook actions to ensure compliance, review best practice and exceed the minimum wherever we could. Niagara Region embraces our responsibilities under the act, and continues to take all the necessary steps to ensure our programs and services are accessible for all of our residents and visitors.

This updated 2018 - 2023 Accessibility Plan outlines the ongoing efforts of Niagara Region, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Niagara Regional Housing and Niagara Regional Police Services to meet our obligations under the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The details of this plan act as a guide to ensure we are providing our programs and services in the most accessible way possible.

This plan is our blueprint to ensure we are taking steps to improve facility accessibility, to provide increased availability for key initiatives such as improved accessible transportation, emergency preparedness planning, safer pedestrian signals, and increased training for staff to provide excellent customer service.

I want to thank the members of our dedicated volunteer Accessibility Advisory Committee, who have selflessly given countless hours of their time to ensure the Region is getting it right. These committee members provide advice, expertise and lessons from their personal experience to Regional Council and our operating departments. I know I speak for all of council when I say we continue to welcome the input and expertise of these committee members as they offer insightful advice to Niagara Region. The devotion and enthusiasm of this committee is making Niagara a better place to live, work and play for everyone.

Yours truly,

Jim Bradley
Regional Chair

Section 2: Message from Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair Table of Contents

Accessibility

Accessibility Plan

• Message from Regional Chair
• Message from Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair
• Municipal Information
• Legislation and Interpretation
• Other Organizations and Agencies Participating in this Accessibility Plan
• Plan Development Working Group
• Status and Updates of Regional Operations
• Status and Updates by Other Organizations and Agencies
• Initiatives
• Summary of Highlights