I have lived and worked in Squamish for more than 25 years. I walked and rode local trails, never imagining I would be in a wheelchair.
Last summer, I started using local trails in my electric wheelchair and I was turned around by trail problems that seemed relatively minor. It was very frustrating. At the same time I was encouraged to realize that fixing minor problems could open the trail network to the broad range of people in our community and our guests. I recognize that tremendous effort has gone into the existing trail network and more is planned. I feel the adoption of wheelchair-accessible trail standards could be of great value to our community and beyond.
We are enriched through our contact with nature; it revives something deep within us all. Trails are, for most of us, how we experience the natural environment. It is also a point of connection for new and old residents of our evolving community. An elderly friend of mine told me there is nowhere in Squamish for her to go that accommodates her and her walker. Nature is a healing resource that should be available to us all. Although we live in a society defined by an aging population, we are one of the youngest communities in Canada. I had a good laugh with a young mother about problems on the trails, as she was pushing a stroller and trying to control two tykes on bikes. Safe accessible trails would suit her as well. Adopting accessible trail standards can be a connection to the natural wonders of Squamish for people of all ages and ability levels.
An inspiring aspect of our community growth is that our recreation department encourages activities at all levels of ability. I have benefited greatly from a unique program at Brennan Park for people challenged with neurological issues. The Sea to Sky Gondola has also made accommodation for wheelchair-friendly services. With special assistant rates on the gondola, a wheelchair-friendly restaurant and access to trails, I have always felt welcome with the courtesy and services I receive there. The success of the gondola has been a springboard for our tourist development. Disabled tourism is clearly an avenue of growth in the travel industry.
With minor improvements, I believe we could upgrade our trails to a higher standard of access, benefitting our diverse community and increasing our tourism potential. With more accessible trails we have new avenues to connect people of all ages and ability to the natural beauty that surrounds Squamish, B.C.
Riun Blackwell
Squamish
