Residents who have trouble accessing some businesses because of mobility issues could have an easier time entering those locations if some shops participate in a city-led accessibility initiative.
Before the pandemic began, the special needs advisory committee began working on the ramp project, which would see downtown businesses install moveable wood ramps that would allow people — especially those in wheelchairs — to enter those shops.
The committee put that project on hold because of the pandemic before picking it up again in December 2021.
It considered contracting two educational institutions in the community to build the ramps but later decided to work with an Ontario company called StopGap.ca. That business aims to help communities create barrier-free spaces by providing the support to create such places.
During its recent meeting, the committee recommended that city council ask the manager of communications and stakeholder relations to help the group advertise the ramp project’s details to the public on social media.
Council unanimously supported that motion during its recent March meeting.
If businesses are interested in acquiring a ramp, they can contact the committee, city hall or visit StopGap.ca’s website, Coun. Jamey Logan said. Business owners will need to submit some measurements of their entrance, which the Ontario company will use to make the ramp and then ship to the business.
Business owners can put out the ramp in the mornings when they open, while in the evenings, they can either leave it out or take it inside until the next day, he added.
According to StopGap.ca’s website, there are at least two businesses in Moose Jaw that have acquired a ramp through the company, including Insight Law Office on Ominica Street West and Main Event Ladies Wear and Bridal on High Street West.
Another business not on the list but known to have a ramp is Tristian’s Treats on High Street West.
The StopGap.ca Foundation was registered as a Canadian charity in October 2013, but its founding occurred in the fall of 2011 in Toronto, its website explained. What began as a one-off project in the city turned into a global movement to make businesses more accessible.
“We’ve learned a lot since we first started and have developed some exciting programs that help raise awareness about barriers in our built environment and engage communities to work towards removing these barriers,” the website added. “We presently have populated the world with 2,000-plus ramps.”
Moose Jaw is the only community in Saskatchewan to currently use StopGap.ca’s product.
The next regular council meeting is Monday, April 10.
