Ten locations in Fort Erie improving accessibility with StopGap ramps

The Town of Fort Erie is stepping up its game when it comes to accessibility at local businesses.

10 locations recently installed StopGap ramps, temporary ramps into stores that have one step between two and nine feet.

This is in addition to nine businesses receiving these helpful pieces of equipment last year, part of a pilot project in partnership with the StopGap Foundation, an organization that helps increase access into existing businesses by removing barriers.

In 2024, council approved a second round, open to the entire community for businesses and organizations, which has resulted in the delivery of the new batch of ramps, according to a news release from the municipality.

Ward 6 Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes said the Town’s accessibility advisory committee, who took the lead on this project, has worked with community partners to improve access.

“It is important to continue to work towards removing barriers within the entire community,” said Noyes, who is council’s representative on that committee.

The ramps help increase accessibility into existing buildings by removing barriers for persons with disabilities, mothers with strollers, and people using walkers or canes, said committee chair Lori Brant.

“Working with businesses and organizations throughout the community, our committee was able to demonstrate that by participating in the program they will be helping to provide more choices where people can shop or access services, without any thought or prior preparation,” she said in the Town’s release.

The Manic Maker, Blue Goose Farm, Maplewood Gelato, Crystal Ball Cafe, and Bridgewater Country Club are some of the new spots where the ramps will be welcoming customers.

The first wave completed in 2023 focused on the Ridgeway-Crystal Beach area.

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