Improving playground accessibility in Vaughan

Sept. 19, 2016 12:00 a.m.
City of Vaughan
​Park renewed to meet needs of the community

The City of Vaughan is dedicated to creating a barrier-free community where all residents can participate in and enjoy our many programs and services. As part of this commitment, York Hill District Park was recently enhanced to improve safety features and playground accessibility.
 
The park’s redevelopment includes upgraded rubber safety surfacing, new equipment in three areas and a relocated basketball court to create a centralized play area with more seating. Partial funding for the park’s revitalization came from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund and the Ontario Tire Stewardship Community Renewal Fund. Both grants went towards renewing equipment and installing the accessible rubber safety surfacing.  
 
Delivering on Council’s priority to invest, renew and manage infrastructure and assets, the City identified opportunities to improve the existing park. By enhancing this greenspace, citizens can enjoy its upgrades for years to come.
 
York Hill District Park is located at 501 Clark Ave. W.
 
QUOTES
 
“An enlightened city is an inclusive city, where all citizens matter. Investing in the revitalization of York Hill District Park demonstrates our commitment to meeting the needs of our residents while achieving our goal to create an accessible community by 2025. By removing barriers and increasing safety features, we are building a space that is open to everyone. I am grateful to our federal and provincial government partners for recognizing the potential in this park and helping to finance this project. Together, we are moving this city forward without leaving anyone behind.”
-Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
 
“The Government of Canada is proud to support the York Hill District Park Playground, through the Enabling Accessibility Fund. Our government helps ensure all Canadians are able to participate equally in their communities and workplaces. By constructing an accessible playground, this project will enhance access for children with disabilities, giving them the opportunity to grow and learn equally within their community.”
-The Honourable Carla Qualthrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities
 
QUICK FACTS
 
  • The total park size is 8.10 hectares (20.0 acres).
  • The City of Vaughan received a $50,000 grant from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund and a $45,293.18 grant from the Ontario Tire Stewardship Community Renewal Fund for this project.
  • As part of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, the design of the playground includes use of rubber safety surfacing to make the space more accessible.
  • The City of Vaughan maintains more than 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres) of parks, boulevards and open spaces, along with more than 230 sports fields and more than 200 playgrounds.
 
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