Why Every Municipality Needs an Up-to-Date Accessibility Plan

Accessibility isn't just about ramps and automatic doors—it's about ensuring that everyone in the community can fully participate in public life. For municipalities, having an up-to-date accessibility plan is more than a legal requirement—it's a smart, inclusive, and community-building move.

What Is an Accessibility Plan?

An accessibility plan is a document that outlines how a municipality will identify, remove, and prevent barriers for people with disabilities. These barriers can be physical, technological, or even attitudinal in nature. The plan covers everything from public buildings and sidewalks to websites and customer service.

Why Does It Matter?

It Benefits Everyone

Accessibility isn't just for people with long-term disabilities—it makes life easier for many people in the community. Older adults benefit from features such as clear signs, smooth sidewalks, and easy-to-use public washrooms. Parents pushing strollers appreciate ramps and automatic doors. People recovering from an injury or surgery may need temporary support, such as handrails or elevators. Even delivery drivers, service workers, and tourists find accessible spaces more convenient and safer to navigate. When public spaces are designed with everyone in mind, the whole community becomes more welcoming, inclusive, and functional.

When a community is accessible, it becomes easier for everyone to move around, use services, and feel welcome. That’s good for public health, safety, and overall quality of life.

It Builds Trust and Inclusion

When a municipality invests in accessibility, it sends a powerful message: we care about all our residents. This builds trust between the local government and the community. People are more likely to attend public meetings, volunteer, and participate in local events when they feel included and valued.

Inclusion also means listening to people with lived experience. Involving residents with disabilities in planning and decision-making helps ensure that changes are meaningful and effective. It’s not just about meeting standards—it’s about building relationships.

It’s the Law

In Manitoba, municipalities are legally required to have accessibility plans under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act. These plans must be reviewed and updated regularly to stay compliant.

In Saskatchewan, municipalities are required by law to have an accessibility plan in place by December 3, 2025, under The Accessible Saskatchewan Act.

It Supports Economic Development

Accessible communities are good for business. Tourists with mobility challenges will choose destinations where they can move around easily. Families and retirees may decide to settle in towns that offer inclusive public spaces and services.

Businesses also benefit when more people can access their storefronts, restaurants, and offices. Accessibility improvements—like better lighting, wider doorways, and clear signage—can increase foot traffic and customer satisfaction.

Municipalities that prioritize accessibility are more attractive to investors, developers, and new residents. It’s a smart way to grow your local economy.

It Helps with Planning and Budgeting

An up-to-date accessibility plan acts like a roadmap. It helps municipalities identify which barriers need to be addressed first, estimate costs, and set realistic timelines. This makes it easier to apply for grants, coordinate with departments, and avoid last-minute fixes.

Instead of reacting to complaints or emergencies, municipalities can plan and make steady progress. This saves money in the long run and ensures that improvements are thoughtful and sustainable.

Final Thoughts

Accessibility isn’t something a municipality can check off a list and forget. It’s a continuous process of listening, learning, and improving. Communities change, technologies evolve, and residents’ needs shift over time. That’s why keeping your accessibility plan up to date is so important—it ensures your municipality stays responsive and relevant.

By maintaining and updating your plan, your municipality shows:

• Leadership: You’re setting an example for other communities by prioritizing inclusion and equity.

• Compassion: You recognize and value the diverse needs of your residents, including those who are often overlooked.

• Foresight: You’re planning for a future where everyone can participate fully in community life, regardless of ability.

An up-to-date accessibility plan is more than a document—it’s a reflection of your municipality’s values. It’s about creating a place where people feel safe, respected, and empowered. When accessibility is woven into the fabric of your community, everyone benefits.