Larry Huchs (right) and John Steer from the REDI TAG Action Group are seen presenting accessibility challenges in Medicine Hat to councillors during a public meeting Monday.--NEWS PHOTO BRENDAN MILLER
newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com
A delegation of members representing REDI and its TAG Action Group made a presentation to council Monday highlighting accessibility challenges within the city, including sidewalk clearance, crosswalk visibility and limited transit hours.
Larry Huchs and John Steer were on hand to present challenges often encountered by members of the public with mobility issues and offered specific suggestions for improvements that could be made throughout the city.
Huchs said some solutions could be as simple as making sure city sidewalks are clear of ice and debris and making crosswalks more visible from a distance.
The group also suggested future city planners consider widened sidewalks to make them more accessible for individuals in wheelchairs and who use walkers.
The representatives from REDI are also suggesting the city expands its transit service hours, specifically while using the on-demand bus system, and providing transit to and from community areas like Co-op Place.
Huchs also pointed out issues with access to doors around the city including at doctors offices and restaurants and the need for more wheelchair accessible ramps and push buttons on doors.
The pair also highlighted the need to make sure the city is accessible when it welcomes more than 1,700 athletes and coaches for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games held from August 11-15.
City officials say ongoing efforts are underway to accommodate accessibility at the facilities that will be used during the Summer Games, however city staff still need to reach out to Panorama Lanes Bowling and Family Fun Centre to inquire about accessibility options to improve access for athletes before the games.
Elected officials and city staff say they will continue to work with REDI to compile a priority list of transit bus stop locations that should receive concrete padding and use their input to inform this year’s budgeted bus-stop improvement work.
