Penticton is taking the lead to improve access to its beaches for all users by developing a Beach Accessibility Framework, a first of its kind for creating accessibility standards for beach access in Penticton.
“We want to make our beaches as accessible as possible and found there are no official frameworks for assessment or standards set in B.C.,” said social development specialist Sarah Desrosiers. “So we are working with people who experience barriers to accessibility to develop accessibility standards for municipal beaches that will be the first of its kind.”
The goal of this work will be to develop a practical Beach Accessibility Assessment Framework that will translate into clear, actionable tools for City staff to prioritize and implement. The City and its consultants will be having conversations with the Accessibility Committee and the community at large to learn about barriers experienced at beaches and will create a made-in-Penticton approach that will establish a template that can be applied to Penticton’s beaches, supporting the City’s long-term accessibility goals, including the 2023-2026 City of Penticton Accessibility Plan.
The City is asking residents and visitors to share their feedback on barriers they’ve experienced at City beaches, as well as what amenities or other improvements could be made to improve inclusive access to the water, washrooms and parking related to the beaches.
“Accessibility isn’t just about meeting standards and checking boxes – it’s about intentionally creating spaces where everyone can appreciate community life,” said Desrosiers. “Your feedback will help guide improvements, remove barriers, and help everyone enjoy Penticton’s beaches.”
Drop by the City’s booth at the Penticton Farmers’ Market on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. to share your thoughts and experiences with staff. Feedback forms are also available at City Hall or online at shapeyourcitypenticton.ca/beach-accessibility. Feedback will be collected through to Sept. 15.