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Message from the Chair
- Councillor Ross Eadie
Welcome to the Access Advisory Committee's
web site! Through the support of our dedicated committee members,
political will, receptive civic administration and community partnerships,
Winnipeg has been placed in the forefront as a leader in Universal Design. On
the Access Advisory Committee's recommendation, council approved a Universal
Design Policy (pdf) in December of 2001. Drafted in community
partnership, this type of policy with a philosophy of universal accessibility.
Universal design is a philosophy that refers to considering accessibility
for a range of different people while in the planning process. Language,
culture, age, size and ability are factors this philosophy incorporates
to include as many people as possible in the design process.
Trouble-free access to services, buildings and information shouldn't be
a concern for many Winnipeggers, but it is. It's important
to have civic information, services and properties that include everyone. Regardless
of ability, each and every citizen of Winnipeg deserves the same rights
and the same services.
With the proactive approach of Civic Administration, it's been proven that
an accessible Winnipeg doesn't necessarily cost more. Proactivity
means thinking ahead and considering people's needs rather than reacting
after the fact. Because of the strong connection with Administration,
the Committee's advice regarding barrier-free access is sought prior to
construction or development.
We have partnered with community organizations to acknowledge community
achievements in creating environments with accessible design. In
2002, we presented the first Winnipeg Accessibility Award. The award recognizes
innovation in pro-access renovation, construction and design. It
is intended to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility in
the City of Winnipeg and its role in making life more equitable, safe,
comfortable for everyone including people with disabilities.
Attitudes have been changing since the Access Advisory Committee became a permanent entity in 1993. Access issues are now considered critical
planning components. The City of Winnipeg places a high priority
on making information, buildings and services universally accessible through
design. While our work is far from complete, the committee has a
strong foundation of work and relationships to build upon. We look
forward to continuing to champion the important issues to create a universally
accessible City of Winnipeg.