By Curtis Galbraith

City Hall

Council approves $125,000 for Barrier-Free grant program

Feb 22, 2021 | 8:16 PM

City Council has agreed to set aside $125,000 for a new Barrier-Free Grant program.

This would see businesses eligible for a grant for 50 per cent of the cost of the work, to a maximum of $10,000, to make their location more accessible to those with disabilities.

The initial motion called for $250,000, but the lower amount was approved.

Mayor Jackie Clayton says council would be open to increasing funding if that becomes necessary.

“Council is looking to see the number of people and organizations that subscribe to the fund. Once the $125,000 amount is exhausted, council will bring it back for further discussion. It wasn’t about creating less opportunity for people. It was more about not tying up funds if they weren’t being subscribed.”

She adds the city has already had some calls from businesses who might be good candidates for these grants.

“This does create good economic recovery for certain industries. However, we’re not totally sure of the number of buildings and facilities that are interested at this time. We expect that the fund will be utilized to the maximum and we look forward to supporting businesses in our community and spending this $125,000 to help with economic recovery.”

Clayton says people with disabilities have been looking for fewer barriers to shop at local businesses.

“(The) City of Grande Prairie has done a great job and is an award-winning community in things that we have done in the past, but this is one more step in the right direction to make a community that has great accessibility on as many buildings and properties as possible.”

Clayton says this would also allow businesses to be open to a new customer base.