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The Township of Uxbridge is proud to celebrate significant accessibility milestones that have been achieved over the past year. These efforts reinforce the Township’s ongoing commitment to creating an accessible and inclusive community for all residents. Through a combination of program participation, facility improvements, and community partnerships, Uxbridge continues to make strides toward a more accessible future. With the support of our dedicated Accessibility Advisory Committee and staff, here is a look at some of the many achievements completed in 2024.

Completion of the LEAD Program

A significant achievement in 2024 was the completion of the LEAD program, provided through the Abilities Centre. This program provided valuable insights and strategies to improve the accessibility of municipal services, processes, and facilities. As part of the program, comprehensive facility audits were conducted at the Arena & Recreation Centre and Town Hall, identifying areas for improvement and setting the stage for future upgrades. The LEAD program also assisted the Township in developing action plans that will guide ongoing accessibility improvements.

Significant Facility Improvements

Building on the insights from the LEAD program and other initiatives, the Township has implemented several important facility upgrades to enhance accessibility. Key improvements include:

  • Secured the Inclusive Community Grant for Arena renovations, which will enhance accessibility features in the facility
  • Upgraded Augmented Listening Device options in Council Chambers to accommodate individuals with hearing difficulties
  • Participated in a regional initiative to improve accessible taxi service across the Region
  • Drafted a plan for pool renovations to improve accessibility and offer more programming opportunities for residents

In addition, significant strides were made to improve accessibility in public outdoor spaces, such as:.

  • Remediation of three sidewalk terminations to improve grade and safety, making sidewalks easier to navigate for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids
  • Audited all sidewalks in the Township for accessibility and safety hazards, with priority given to high-traffic areas
  • Created new sidewalks in Goodwood and extended a multi-use path along Toronto St., providing safer, more accessible options for walking and cycling

National AccessAbility Week

Uxbridge proclaimed May 26 – June 1, 2024, as National AccessAbility Week to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of accessibility. As part of this celebration, Uxbridge hosted events and activities aimed at encouraging conversations about accessibility and inclusion.

The Township also partnered with Jumpstart to offer the Jumpstart Games to local youth at no charge. This partnership allowed children, particularly those facing financial or accessibility barriers, to participate in recreational activities and sports, promoting inclusion and physical activity for all.

Looking Ahead: Continued Commitment to Accessibility

While much has been accomplished, the Township of Uxbridge remains committed to ongoing improvements. In March 2025, the Uxbridge Public Library will undergo an accessibility audit to identify areas for enhancement. The Township will continue to celebrate National AccessAbility Week, taking place May 25 – May 31, 2025, and will continue collaborating with the Accessibility Advisory Committee to guide decisions and actions as new projects and initiatives are developed.

The Township thanks the Accessibility Advisory Committee members for their service and contributions to improving accessibility. Their input and efforts played a key role in the accessibility initiatives and achievements completed in 2024.

"I am very proud of the progress the Township has made in removing barriers and making Uxbridge a more accessible place for everyone. These improvements are the result of hard work and collaboration with key partners, including the Accessibility Advisory Committee and the Abilities Centre through their LEAD Program. None of this would have been possible without their strong support and commitment to creating a more inclusive community."

— Willie Popp, Ward 4 Councillor and Accessibility Advisory Committee Representative

To view the full list of accomplishments in the 2024 Accessibility Progress Report, visit: https://www.uxbridge.ca/en/your-local-government/accessibility-plan.aspx 

For more information about the Township of Uxbridge’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, visit: https://www.uxbridge.ca/en/your-local-government/accessibility-advisory-committee.aspx

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