Sidewalk Safety And Accessibility
Kingston has approximately 433,500 linear metres of sidewalk, and more planned for new subdivisions.
The City has a number of programs and planning protocols in place to ensure that all the City's sidewalks are kept safe and are constructed — or reconstructed — to be made accessible. These include:
- The City-run Sidewalker Inspection Program to spot sidewalk defects.
- The Step Safe Program which encourages residents to report sidewalk hazards.
- The installation of new countdown signaling devices at certain intersections.
- Imposed City design standards for sidewalks. Contractors who build sidewalks for the City are expected to construct sidewalks that designed for use by people in wheelchairs.
ABOUT THE ROLLERCOASTER SIDEWALKS IN DOWNTOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS:
Construction of sidewalks in the downtown poses challenges for accessibility. Many of the sidewalks in the downtown have many dips to accommodate driveway ramps — creating an undesirable rollercoaster effect for wheelchair and scooter users.
Homes in the downtown area were built to the edge of the property lot, and green space does not separate the sidewalks from the road. This green space, common in newer residential areas, provides space for a driveway ramp, which enables sidewalks to remain level.
BUILDING A BETTER SIDEWALK
As new or repaired sidewalks are constructed, designs that reduce the rollercoaster effect will be tested. A sidewalk built on Earl Street in 2007 is acting as a pilot project.
The new sidewalk designs will have grades ranging from 2.5 per cent to 5 per cent where the sidewalk lowers to accommodate a driveway. The grade will vary marginally depending on how closely driveways are spaced.
In areas where space permits, an additional curb, separating the driveway and sidewalk from the road will be introduced. The additional curb will direct water runoff from the sidewalk to the street and will allow for a minimal depression between the sidewalk and the driveway.
Report any sidewalk or traffic signal problems to 613-546-0000.
For more information about municipal accessibility issues contact: Barry Kaplan, Accessibility Coordinator, Planning & Development, 613-546-4291, ext. 3182, email accessibility@cityofkingston.ca.
