DELTA Mayor George V. Harvie, Councillors Rod Binder, Jessie Dosanjh, Jennifer Johal, and Dylan Kruger, and representatives from the Magical Hearts, North Delta Lions Club, and United Way, were on hand on Wednesday to celebrate the latest addition and enhancement to Annieville Lions Park playground – a wheelchair accessible swing designed to promote inclusivity and provide a safe and enjoyable recreational experience for all members of the community.
This project was initiated by local organizations, including the Magical Hearts, North Delta Lions Club, and United Way. Magical Hearts coordinated the funding and donation of this swing in partnership with the United Way who provided $7,800 towards this new inclusive playground amenity. Additionally, the North Delta Lions Club generously contributed $4,000 to help fund this project. The Lions Club has been serving the North Delta community for over 50 years, raising proceeds to support local improvement projects and families in need. The City’s supplier, Northland Recreation Supply, also provided a discount on equipment costs for this project.
Harvie said: “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more inclusive and accessible community. I want to thank our partners, the North Delta Lions Club, Magical Hearts, and the United Way for their generosity and collaboration on this project. The new wheelchair accessible swing at Annieville Lions Park exemplifies our dedication to ensuring that everyone can enjoy our public spaces and facilities. We believe that this swing will not only provide physical enjoyment but also foster a sense of belonging for all members of our diverse community.”
The new swing is part of the City of Delta’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility throughout Delta. Additionally, city crews recently paved the gravel pathway to Spot on the Water Park to make the park and Chisholm Street Wharf accessible for everyone.
Harvie and Delta Council approved the City’s Accessibility Plan this past June, which focuses on actions that address the six principles in the Accessible British Columbia Act of inclusion, adaptability, diversity, collaboration, self-determination, and universal design. The City’s Accessibility Plan was developed based on the advice of the City’s Mobility and Accessibility Committee and incorporates feedback from the broader community to help staff continue ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and provide support for people with disabilities throughout the community.