$60,000 Funding to Install Accessible Docks in Lakefield!

Lakefield, ON (March 14, 2024) – On Thursday, the Honourable Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility, Member of Provincial Parliament Dave Smith, Peterborough County Warden, Bonnie Clark, Selwyn Township Mayor Sherry Senis and Township representatives celebrated the Township having been approved for up to $60,000 through the Inclusive Community Grants Program for the ‘Creating an Inclusive Waterfront in Lakefield’ project, which includes the installation of accessible docking systems in Lakefield.

The ‘Creating an Inclusive Waterfront in Lakefield’ project includes the installation of both an assistive canoe/kayak launch at Isabel Morris Park and a fully accessible canoe/kayak launch at Lakefield Beach. These will provide barrier-free access to recreational water activities along the Otonabee River which runs through the Village of Lakefield in Selwyn Township.

“Our government proudly supports Selwyn Township in removing barriers to recreation through the Inclusive Community Grant. The addition of an accessible and assistive canoe and kayak launch at Isabel Morris Park will go a long way in ensuring more people can enjoy the beautiful Lakefield waterfront!” -The Honourable Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility

“Those with disabilities and limited mobility are often faced with obstacles or unwelcoming environments when they try to use outdoor spaces,” said Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha. “This funding will allow individuals to have access to waterfront that will enable them to enjoy activities with their friends and families for years to come.” MPP Smith added.

“There remain considerable barriers to participation in recreation and cultural activities for people with disabilities. This is also true for seniors, people with limited mobility, and/or health-related issues. To achieve inclusivity for all, parks and recreation services must be accessible to residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. This is a goal that the Township strives towards.” – Sherry Senis, Mayor of Selwyn Township

By increasing accessibility to outdoor spaces, Selwyn Township’s ‘Creating an Inclusive Waterfront in Lakefield’ project will improve older adults’ and people with disabilities’ community engagement, whether residents or visitors to our community.
The Inclusive Community Grants Program, through the Ontario Government, is investing $750,000 to help communities across the province become more inclusive and accessible for people of all ages and abilities. The program helps ensure local governments and community organizations consider Ontarians of all ages and abilities at every stage of community planning and development. Inclusive communities respond to both the opportunities and challenges of an aging population by creating physical and social environments that support independent and active living; and enabling older adults and people with disabilities to continue contributing to all aspects of community life.