Cleary Centre may get viewing ramp for wheelchair patrons

By Olivia Bradbury, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After receiving letters requesting it, the Town of Harbour Grace is looking into installing an accessibility ramp at the Danny Cleary Harbour Grace Community Centre.

Deputy Mayor Gary Baker told council last week that two letters requesting a ramp had been received. According to Baker, the issue had been brought to the previous council shortly before last fall’s election but due to lack of time, they were not able to address it.

The ramp would be located inside the rink and allow wheelchair-users to view the ice surface from ground level.

“Apparently there was one at the old stadium,” said Baker. “And they’re requesting one be installed at the new stadium.”

Baker said he had discussed the issue with councillor Lee Rogers, who served on the previous council, and Rogers agreed to take measurements to determine what’s needed.

Mayor Terry Barnes pointed out the arena does have a public viewing place, but added it is located upstairs, which would not be desirable for everyone.

Baker said the upstairs area provides an obstructed view and dampened noise. “They can’t hear the commotion and get involved in the game,” he added.

Barnes supported looking into the request, noting council agreed months ago it would work on making all public places owned by the Town accessible.

Baker allowed a ramp would be a very simple fix.

It’s not the first time Baker, who is a doctor, has brought accessibility issues to the table. He previously received a request to look into accessibility barriers at all of Harbour Grace’s public spaces and parks, and shared a resident’s concerns about the accessibility of S.W. Moores Park with council. Baker also looked into resident concerns about potential hearing damage caused by the airhorn at the Danny Cleary Centre. He ultimately moved a motion to have the horn silenced. The motion carried unanimously.