Efforts to make the Pavilion accessible - Toronto Parks AODA / Chris Clarke and Helen Sousa

DASSP has received a reply from Jorge Ture, of Toronto Parks, regarding the modifications required to make the covered Pavilion accessible for wheelchairs, under AODA guidelines.

Jorge has shared our concerns with Chris Clarke and Helen Sousa, representing Senior Management of Toronto Parks, and will advise.

DASSP will be following up in a few weeks to solicit an update on this important issue, especially as the hot, rainy summer weather is upon us, and many para/quadriplegics are unable to sweat due to their injury or health.

Making the SSP Pavilion accessible - Toronto Parks

One of the issues DASSP has identified requiring remediation, is the lack of accessibility to the Pavilion opposite the playing Oval. 

Disabled folk would like to be able to rely on the Pavilion as a refuge during rainstorms, and of course be able to utilize it for picnics or as a meeting place once the pandemic has abated.  

A pea gravel path to the Pavilion's new ramp, is also required.

We have contacted Toronto Parks (Jorge Ture) and will be following up on this important issue, so that all Disabled, Seniors and residents of nearby Lakeshore Lodge Care Home may enjoy the structure independently.

Photos by Vesty

The Observation Deck is now safe for Disabled again !

Saturday, after quite a few months of waiting, the Observation Deck at the southwest end of the Pond was finally re-opened.

The original Deck modifications from early 2019 had been unsuitable for the Disabled, as the worn out original wooden decking had been replaced with a metal grating, with gaps too wide, causing wheelchair front wheels to become stuck, and cane tips to actually go through the grate for slow walkers.

The new metal grating has a narrower gauge, and is much safer for all members of our Disabled Community, and parents with strollers !

Many thanks to Jorge Ture (Toronto Parks), and Janette Harvey (City of Toronto Forestry) for making the remediation!