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Hockey fans, arts patrons and library lovers of all abilities in Prince Rupert are finding it easier to pursue their interests thanks to the community's work with 2010 Legacies Now.
"When 2010 Legacies Now provided us an opportunity to 'Measure Up Prince Rupert,' it gave the City a chance to turn to the experts in our community for advice and consultation for ways to make our community more accessible and inclusive to persons of all abilities," explained Michael Curnes, director of recreation and community services for the City of Prince Rupert.
Using a $20,000-grant from 2010 Legacies Now, the community's Measuring Up Work Group has achieved results that can be seen throughout Prince Rupert. In September 2008, the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre Ice Arena received a new viewing platform and ramp, so all hockey fans can cheer on the Prince Rupert Rampage and local minor hockey teams. The work group also funded automatic doors for the Civic Centre, Prince Rupert Public Library and Lester Centre for the Arts.
In addition, the work group allocated funds to purchase audible chirp signals, to help people with visual impairments, for the intersection of Third Avenue and Fulton Street; complete at least one curb cut to increase accessibility for people using wheelchairs and walkers; and create a wheelchair-accessible parking space in the City Hall parking lot.
Across British Columbia, more than 100 communities are capturing the inspiration of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games and turning it into local, community-based legacies with the help of 2010 Legacies Now's Measuring Up program. Measuring Up guides communities in assessing and improving local accessibility for people with disabilities, and Prince Rupert is taking advantage of the opportunity to become more inclusive for residents and visitors alike.
