Washrooms at Park now Accessible!

The Municipality of Chester (MOC) is proud to announce the completion of Phase One of Three at Wild Rose Park in Western Shore. Two newly renovated, fully accessible washrooms are now open for use, setting a new standard for inclusivity and accessibility within the community.

In 2020, the Municipality received a grant through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, administered by their federal partners in Employment and Social Development Canada. Due to the pandemic and supply chain issues, the work was paused until last year. This $60,000 grant enabled the Municipality to upgrade the current washroom facilities to meet accessibility needs. The buildings were completely reconfigured from the original gendered facilities to universal washrooms designed to accommodate people of all ages, genders, and abilities, providing privacy and functionality for everyone.

Upgrades include a new concrete pad, providing a smooth, continuous transition into the washrooms; hands-free fixtures, including soap and paper-towel dispensers; power-operated entries widened to 36”; power operated adult change table; accessible toilets that are installed at the proper height to meet accessibility standards; and baby change tables. Renovations adhere to the CSA/ASC B651:23 standards and the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC), guaranteeing they meet the highest benchmarks for accessibility. Total cost of the project was $80,000.

Because accessibility is more than just meeting standards, the MOC team consulted with a community member with lived experience of disability to ensure upgrades were suitable.

Phase 2 will include paving and line painting the four parking areas, a new accessible ramp to the beach with roll-out mats for wheeled access to the water, a partial 6’ wide concrete walking path through the park, and accessible seating. Phase 3 will include completing the remainder of the concrete walkway and landscaping. For information on Phases Two and Three, please look here for future updates.