12.4 Accessibility and Comfort

Principle

Design St. Albert to be accessible and inviting, to everyone in all seasons.

Great places are inviting, comfortable, and accessible at all times of the year. Universal access refers to environments, programs, and services that respond to the needs of the widest population range possible, ensuring persons of varying abilities and ages can access the physical environment on an equitable basis. The following policies reduce barriers to access in municipally owned buildings and public spaces, creating a city that is comfortable for all, while encouraging private development that enhances accessibility and comfort.

Policies

12.4.1.

Ensure new development and redevelopment comply with applicable accessibility legislation.

12.4.2.

Design new City buildings, facilities, and infrastructure that balance the spatial needs of people of all ages and abilities by using universally accessible design principles.

What is universal design?

Universal design is the design of an environment so that it can be used by people of all ages, sizes, and abilities in the widest possible range of situations. A common myth about universal design is that it benefits only a small portion of the population, such as elderly or people with disabilities. But no two people are the same and no two people have exactly the same ability. An estimated one in five Canadians fifteen or older have one or more disabilities that limit them in their daily activities. Accessibility can be affected by a temporary illness or injury, an unfamiliarity with the environment, or a physical attribute such as height or size. A universally designed environment recognizes the range of human ability and makes life easier and safer for everyone.

12.4.3.

Incorporate universally accessible design principles when retrofitting City buildings, facilities, and infrastructure, where feasible.

12.4.4.

Promote the incorporation of universally accessible design principles in all new private development and redevelopment.

12.4.5.

Encourage the inclusion of universally accessible units in new multi-unit housing.

12.4.6.

Promote the design of inclusive and welcoming spaces for everyone.

12.4.7.

Promote the incorporation of winter design principles into the public realm and private development by:

Mitigating shadow impacts on public and private amenity spaces;
Incorporating landscape features that block or mitigate wind impacts;
Including public amenities and infrastructure that encourage year-round use;
Including colour in the design of buildings;
Incorporating appropriate lighting into building and site design; and
Including rest and warm-up areas where feasible.

12.4.8.

Support year-round use of sidewalks and transit facilities through appropriate lighting, shelter design and location, and timely operational maintenance.