FORT FRANCES — A few accessibility upgrades will be included in the current pool renovation at the Memorial Sports Centre in Fort Frances, says Nathan Young, recreation & culture manager, raising high hopes that individuals who need support getting into the pool will be able to participate in future swim activities.
“Currently, we have invested in a new lift into the pool as part of the current renovations that are happening,” he said. “When the pool reopens, we will be training the staff on how to use and operate this lift to assist individuals that may need to use the lift system.”
Young’s updates were written in an email to Nicole LePine, a wheelchair user who has actively advocated for accessibility upgrades over the past few years.
“I really have higher hopes that they are taking accessibility more seriously,” she said.
LePine recently shared some of her ongoing accessibility challenges with the Sports Centre building with Young, who also had an opportunity to meet with LePine and see her struggles firsthand.
LePine said she explained how she met with the former recreation & culture manager, Tyler Young before he left and pointed out areas within the Sports Centre building that could improve accessibility for wheelchair users like herself.
Additionally, the Town is working on an accessibility grant to complete upgrades on their elevator, change rooms, and washrooms in the building, Young said in the latest email to LePine.
“I am hopeful that we will be successful in securing these funds to complete the work that is definitely ‘behind the times,’” he said.
“I assure you that these projects are on the top of my priority list and have been laying the ground to work to address these issues,” he said, adding that feedback is always welcome as he continues to work toward making the building more accessible for all.
