New Accessibility Partnership Opens Wellington Beach to More Visitors
Date: April 27, 2024
Wellington Rotary Beach is set to become far more accessible this summer, thanks to a collaborative project that will allow people with mobility challenges to enjoy the shoreline for the first time.
County council received an update this week on the initiative, presented by Wellington Rotary Club president Lyn McGowan and past-president Ken Robertson. The project includes the installation of an accessibility beach mat, additional side mats, two specialized beach wheelchairs, and on-site storage.
The effort gained significant momentum earlier this spring when the Rotary Club was contacted by Wade Watts, the Canadian sales representative for DMS/Mobi accessibility products. Watts advised the club that a corporate sponsor, who will be publicly announced at the project’s May 9 grand opening had committed funding as part of a national effort to improve beach accessibility across Canada.
Wellington’s project will be the first of several similar installations planned nationwide.
Expanded Scope, Minimal Cost to the County
With the additional sponsorship, the project expanded beyond its original design. Plans now include wider and more versatile beach mats, an 8-by-12-foot storage shed, and two Mobi Chairs designed to assist individuals with significant mobility limitations in accessing the water. Each chair is valued at approximately $4,000.
The total cost of the enhanced project is estimated at $52,000. The anonymous sponsor is contributing $42,000, while the Wellington Rotary Club will cover the remaining expenses.
According to council, the County will not incur any capital costs. Municipal involvement will be limited to staff assistance with site preparation, seasonal installation, and off-season storage. A proposal is also being considered to appoint a “beach steward” to help manage access to the Mobi Chairs during the summer.
Community Support and Personal Impact
Mayor Steve Ferguson expressed strong support for the initiative, noting the importance of removing barriers for residents and visitors alike.
“My father used a wheelchair after contracting polio,” Ferguson shared. “He loved being near the water, but accessing the beach simply wasn’t possible. Projects like this make a real difference.”
Councillor Kate MacNaughton echoed the sentiment, recalling a time when individuals with disabilities could only enjoy the beach if they could be physically carried by family members—something that became impossible as they grew older.
Years in the Making
The concept for an accessibility mat at Wellington Beach dates back to 2022, when Rotarian Dave Robinet began researching similar installations across Ontario. Comparable mats are already in place at locations such as Sandbanks Provincial Park and Cobourg.
The initial proposal was far more modest, with an estimated cost of $10,000 and funding planned through the Wellington club, neighboring Rotary clubs, and a Rotary District 7070 grant. Extensive consultations were also held with County staff, Wellington councillor Corey Englesdorfer, and the Prince Edward County Accessibility Advisory Committee.
With the expanded support now in place, Wellington Rotary Beach is poised to become a more inclusive destination for everyone.
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