Regional District of Bulkley Nechako unveiled its very first Accessibility Plan thanks to the efforts of the Buckley-Nechako Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee.
The committee, comprised of volunteers with direct experience in disability or related service roles, announced the Accessibility Plan on June 26 as part of an effort to enhance accessibility across the region.
The committee's mandate spans advising councils and boards within the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako on equitable policies and services for individuals with disabilities.
Key objectives of the plan include identifying barriers to accessibility, fostering public engagement on disability issues, and collaborating with local councils and agencies to address challenges in transportation, housing, employment, education, and recreation.
The plan seeks to collaborate with local councils and agencies to tackle these barriers effectively.
Additionally, the plan promotes initiatives that encourage active living and enhance the participation of people with disabilities within their communities. To ensure widespread impact, the plan will be distributed to all partner organizations to guide their efforts in improving accessibility across services and infrastructure.
"We are very proud of what the committee has accomplished so far. We look forward to the ongoing work of ensuring all residents can equally participate and access services in our communities," said Judy Greenaway, chair of the committee.
The committee' was formed under the Accessible BC Act, enacted in June 2021, which mandates the removal and prevention of various accessibility barriers. Participating organizations from Telkwa, Houston, Granisle, 亚洲天堂 Lake, Fraser Lake, Vanderhoof, and Fort St. James are actively contributing to the initiative's success.