Item - 2024.DI9.6

The Toronto Accessibility Advisory Committee recommends that the Executive Committee:

1. Request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation to present an update to the Toronto Accessibility Advisory Committee at its December 11, 2024 meeting, on their plans to ensure Toronto's beaches are accessible for those with disabilities, including those who use mobility aids.
 

2. Request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation to include the answers to the questions in the communication (October 16, 2024) from Jane Anderson, in the presentation.

3. Invite “Friends of Hanlon” to present to the Toronto Accessibility Advisory Committee at its December 11, 2024 meeting, on their work-to-date to help ensure Hanlans Point is accessible for those with disabilities, including those who use mobility aids.

A recent CBC news story (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-beach-accessibility-1.7206872) brought much needed awareness about the lack of beach access throughout most of Toronto’s public beaches. For those using mobility aids, parents with strollers, and anyone else who finds sandy terrain challenging to navigate, options are slim to none for enjoying a beach experience in Toronto. While many provincial parks and municipalities are making beach access a priority, beach access in Toronto is clearly not being considered.