Installation of a new inclusive playground at Olmsted Beach will begin Monday as part of accessible upgrades at the site, including paved pathways and parking.
The new playground will include features for all ages and abilities, along with wide ramps to allow wheelchair access. Construction is expected to take up to 10 days to complete.
Accessible paved pathways, connecting the boat launch, playground, beach, gazebo, washrooms, and new accessible parking, are now complete.
Park benches will also be installed beside the playground and beach, and new trees are being planted throughout the park. Additionally, the City’s second beach-accessible mat has been installed at Olmsted Beach, providing those using wheelchairs or who have other mobility issues greater access to Trout Lake.
“This new, safe, and accessible playground equipment will provide improved access and play opportunities for children of all abilities, while the newly paved pathways and accessible parking will help to make this popular outdoor space a place everyone is able to enjoy,” said Coun. Johanne Brousseau, Chair of Council Community Services Committee.
The upgrades at Olmsted Beach are part of an ongoing effort to make City facilities, programs, and services accessible to all citizens. Other accessibility improvements in recent years include the installation of a beach-accessible mat at Marathon Beach and the addition of wheelchair-accessible picnic tables at several park locations.
An accessible path at Sunset Beach was also recently constructed.
“We’re pleased that the City of North Bay is continually listening to our input and remains committed to improving accessibility,” said Sharyn Emond, Acting Chair of the City’s Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee. “Mobility mats at beaches and other recent accessibility improvements have been based on recommendations by the MAAC. These upgrades demonstrate the kind of results that can be achieved when we all share the same goal.”
