in the beaches moncton And Fredericton Upgrade has been given to improve access,
Parley Beach is a popular spot near Moncton, with accessible mats that allow people with mobility issues to access sand and water.
The upgrade follows a 2021 provincial government announcement to invest $400,000 in upgrades for access to the park. This included a rest station and beach-rolling mats.
All upgrades were unveiled on 27 June.
Ability New Brunswick and Para Sport NB were part of the unveiling and they described it as an emotional day with people getting out to use the new facilities and mat.
But Parli isn’t the only beach getting an accessibility upgrade.
In Fredericton, Killarney Lake and Morell Park will have accessible docks at two locations through a $50,000 donation by the Fredericton North Rotary Club.
Bonnie Hoyt-Hallett, with the Fredericton North Rotary Club, said it was a part of the club’s centennial commitment and a heritage project.
“We had a lot of different things offered to us, so we docked the legacy with accessible features,” she said.
The construction of the dock is to be sent for tender soon. Hoyt-Hallet said they will likely be installed before the end of the month, giving people plenty of time to enjoy the beachfront spots.
“It’s beautiful, and we’re very lucky that the city of Frederickton has a river, and there’s also Lake Killarney, where people can go and enjoy playing on the beach, building sand castles and getting into the water.” But it is not always possible for everyone,” she said in an interview on Sunday.
“That means it opens the way for people who may not be able to enjoy what many people do.”
The dock at Killarney Lake includes a 12-foot platform to allow ramps up and down. The Morrell Park Dock will include a transfer-bar so that people in wheelchairs can grab the bar and get in and out of the watercraft.
“Both docks are configurable, meaning they can be rearranged to suit an individual’s needs when installed,” the city said in a statement.
“Everyone in our city should be able to experience the joy of dipping their toes in the water. This will become a reality for many this summer, thanks to the Frederickton North Rotary Club,” said Mayor Kate Rogers.
“Fredericton City Council is incredibly grateful for this meaningful donation, which marks 100 years of active community involvement from local Rotarians.”
Once the dock is installed, the city takes on the responsibility of its further maintenance.
© 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.