Vernon is home to a large senior population and also has many residents with mobility challenges. Between now and 2031, the number of Vernon residents over the age of 65 is expected to grow dramatically. At the same time, people with mobility challenges will continue to demand a transportation system that allows them to access employment, school, shopping, recreation, family and friends.
The issue of accessible transportation can address everything from disabled parking and drop-down curbs to filling in gaps in the sidewalk network to transit service for those with special needs. An accessible community allows all of its members to contribute to society in the most meaningful way that they can.
Accessibility Facts
Approximately 9%, or 2.5 million Canadians have mobility challenges. This includes difficulty walking up to 500 metres, walking up and down stairs, or even moving from one room to another.
Senior citizens make up most of the people that have mobility challenges. Vernon’s senior population is larger than the BC average and growing.
21% of Canadian households do not own an automobile.
Universal design is a strategy to ensure that transportation facilities accommodate people with mobility challenges.
