Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

Implement a new fare payment system for Kingston Transit that will include options to purchase fares and renew bus passes without having to visit a physical location.

Examine the potential for integration of real-time ASL interpretation for City Council meetings.

Implement technology solutions such as real-time video ASL interpretation and counter-loop systems at City facilities.

Explore training opportunities for staff in a variety of areas related to accessibility.

Continue to improve access related to the patron experience at the Kingston Grand Theatre.

Work to remove barriers related to accessing the City of Kingston Arts Fund.

Provide heritage programming at the PumpHouse, MacLachlan Woodworking Museum and Kingston City Hall National Historic Site that is appropriate for a range of abilities and learning levels.

Launch a new City of Kingston website, with a primary focus on presenting content in a more accessible format.

Hire an accessibility coordinator to broadly examine digital accessibility across the Corporation.

Provide information on City programs and services using the widest variety of communications tools possible to ensure that all residents have an opportunity to stay informed.

Continue to solicit, receive, and incorporate, where possible, suggestions regarding accessibility improvements for bus stops and bus stop signage.

Update the Kingston Transit accessible services handbook.

Conduct a public awareness campaign regarding the rules and regulations for service animals.

Continue to engage with businesses groups and organizations to share information on the importance of accessibility.

Update and launch an interactive mapping tool on the City website that highlights accessibility features at City facilities and parks.

Provide multiple points of entry for residents related to arts programming and projects.

Review museum websites and provide public communications regarding heritage programming in multiple formats and following accessibility guidelines.

Examine job requirements and minimum qualifications to reduce barriers to application for persons with disabilities and ensure only bona fide qualifications are listed.

Continue implementation of program aimed at instituting equity, diversity, and inclusion practices into employment practices.

Seek out grants and funding sources from the federal and provincial levels of government to promote equitable and gainful employment through community programs.

Continue to invest in the upgrading of bus shelters, stop infrastructure and connectivity to pedestrian access points such as sidewalks and pathways.

Implement touchless mobility securement systems on all new bus purchases allowing transit passengers using mobility devices to independently secure themselves.

Consult with persons with disabilities, residents, and the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee on the availability of on-demand accessible taxicabs and report on the progress.

Update priority seating policy and install new priority seating signage on buses.

Ensure that accessible features in parks and public space are installed and properly maintained.

Complete redesign of the public recycling depot at the Kingston Area Recycling Centre to improve physical accessibility of waste bins.

Continue to implement the Step Safe program, a public reporting process for identifying sidewalk trip hazards requiring repair.

Renovate the following City facilities accessed by the public.

Council Chamber in City Hall;

driveway and fountain at Frontenac County Court House;

610 Montreal Street, site of Kingston Indigenous Languages Nest (KILN), incorporating culturally appropriate built form;

Repairs to front entrance pathways, ramp, and stairs at 1211 John Counter Boulevard;

Isabel Turner Library Branch.

Create a connected pedestrian corridor, including filling sidewalk gaps and constructing cycling facilities on Bayridge Drive between Henderson Drive and Cataraqui Woods.

Improve sidewalk connections on Princess Street between Collins Bay Road and Bayridge Drive.

Install audible pedestrian signals as part of standard infrastructure upgrade programs.

Improve access related to the performance areas within the Kingston Grand Theatre (where possible).

Incorporate accessibility and multi-sensorial considerations into museum exhibits.