Universal Design and How It Applies SPINAL CORD INJURY BC Universal Design and How It Applies In Our Communities

What We Will Cover Today How did we get here? What is Universal Design? Why is Universal Design important? What We Will Cover Today

Spinal Cord Injury BC - Universal Design, and why it is important

How Did We Get Here? Measuring Up the North Access North Access BC

What Is Universal Design? The Design Of Spaces and Products That Are Usable By People Of Any Age, Size Or Ability (Ron Mace, North Carolina)

What Is Universal Design? Universal Design is not a fad or a trend but an enduring design approach that originates from the belief that the broad range of human ability is ordinary not special (http://udeducation.org/udeo/learn.html)

Universal Design is Seamless Planned Sustainable design By not having to make renovations later that create increased waste is beneficial to the environment Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park + Protected Area

Universal Design Includes all Users Staff (indoor/outdoor) People pushing and pulling carts People pushing baby carriages People pulling luggage

Designing for a range of human requirements is better for everyone

Seven Principles of Universal Design Help to Make Our Facilities More Useable by Everyone Principle 1: Equitable Use: All People use the Same Entrance Principle 2 : Flexibility in Use: 2 heights for Service Counters Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive Use: Motion responsive lights Principle 4: Perceptible Information: Tactile Exhibits Principle 5: Tolerance for Error: Handrails appropriately Placed Principle 6: Low Physical Effort: No Step Entrance & Automatic Door Principle 7: Size & Space for Approach and Use: Universally Designed Pit Toilet

What Matters in Our Communities, Parks and Outdoor Spaces? Parking or Transportation Access Routes Toilets Ability to see or experience the “attraction” that brings visitors to the site Access to information about the site and to the available services

The BC Parks’ Future Strategy Why is Universal Design important? Many more people can enjoy our communities, parks and facilities “Guaranteeing Improved Accessibility Means that Many More People & Their Families Can Enjoy Our Parks & Protected Areas” The BC Parks’ Future Strategy 10 Mile Lake Provincial Park

Not surprisingly, people with a range of abilities want to do the same things as and with everyone else

Any of us Can Have Temporary Changes in Our Abilities

Unsafe Conditions and Lack of Maintenance Can Also Create Barriers Falls on steps Lack of handrails Slippery surfaces Poor lighting Potholes in sidewalks Lack of signage, snow clearing or maintenance of parking lots

Why is Universal Design important to Tourism and our Communities Why is Universal Design important to Tourism and our Communities ? Because it is an economic imperative! In 2015, Americans with disabilities spent $17.3 Billion on travel, or more than $34.6 Billion if their companions are included.

What is the % of people with permanent disabilities? 18% of BC’s population 14% of Canada Population 14% of the US Population

Multiplier Effect People with Disabilities and Older Adults travel with other people

Other Community Benefits Social well-being and health of all citizens Emergency Preparedness Ability to attract large events

Universal Design in Action SCI BC's Access North Initiative

Questions? Call Spinal Cord Injury BC 1 800 689 2477