Regina’s mayor has announced the city’s plans to add an elevator to the design of a new aquatic center in order to make the facility’s waterslide accessible. The aquatic center is currently in the design phase and will be situated in the Taylor Fields land behind the Lawson Centre. The elevator will be integrated into the design from the beginning, rather than being added on later. Mayor Sandra Masters stated that the elevator will be used to access the second level of the facility, which will then allow access to the high waterslide. There is currently no set timeline for when construction will begin on the aquatic center.
In response to calls from Regina residents for improved accessibility for disabled individuals at city facilities, including the outdoor pool at Wascana, Mayor Masters mentioned that adding an elevator at Wascana would cost approximately $1 million. However, instead of allocating funds towards the elevator at Wascana, the city council decided to use that money to enhance accessibility at five other recreational sites in the city. Mayor Masters explained that this decision was made in order to benefit a larger number of people and have a greater impact than investing solely in a waterslide at Wascana. She did note, however, that the possibility of adding an elevator to Wascana is not completely ruled out and could still be considered in the future.
The decision to add an elevator to the new aquatic center is part of a larger effort by the City of Regina to improve accessibility for all residents, including those with disabilities. The elevator will provide individuals with mobility challenges the opportunity to access all areas of the facility, including the waterslide. Mayor Masters emphasized the importance of ensuring that city facilities are inclusive and accessible to everyone in the community, and the addition of the elevator is a step towards achieving that goal.
The new aquatic center is anticipated to be a popular destination for residents of Regina, offering a variety of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages. By incorporating an elevator into the design, the city is demonstrating its commitment to creating inclusive recreational spaces that can be enjoyed by everyone. The inclusion of the elevator will not only benefit individuals with disabilities but also families with young children, seniors, and others who may have difficulty navigating stairs or other barriers.
While the decision to allocate funds towards improving accessibility at other recreational sites instead of adding an elevator to Wascana may disappoint some residents, Mayor Masters assured the public that the issue is not off the table completely. The city council will continue to consider options for enhancing accessibility at Wascana in the future, and an elevator may still be added at a later date. In the meantime, the focus remains on ensuring that all residents of Regina have access to recreational facilities that are welcoming, inclusive, and accommodating to individuals of all abilities.
Overall, the addition of an elevator to the design of the new aquatic center reflects the City of Regina’s commitment to creating spaces that are accessible to all residents. By prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility in the planning and development of city facilities, Regina is taking important steps towards becoming a more inclusive and welcoming community for individuals of all abilities. The decision to allocate funds towards improving accessibility at various recreational sites demonstrates a commitment to making a meaningful impact and ensuring that all residents can enjoy the city’s amenities.
