In the fall of 2024, residents were invited to share their experiences related to accessibility in Kelowna via an online survey, in-person pop-up events and focus groups.

This engagement is being used to shape Kelowna's Accessibility Plan which aims to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to everyday life for residents and visitors, particularly for individuals with disabilities. As part of the Accessible British Columbia Act, all cities are required to create an Accessibility Plan to ensure everyone has equal access to the City's programs, services and spaces.

Kelowna residents and community members shared diverse experiences with disability and caring for those with disabilities. Read more in the draft Accessibility Plan, to be finalized in late spring 2025.

The list below summarizes the key priorities we heard under each service area:

Service areas	Key priorities heard
Built Environment	Enhance public infrastructure, such as parks, playgrounds and City buildings Increase access to adaptable and accessible housing Increase accessibility to Okanagan Lake
Transportation	Improve accessibility of sidewalks, pathways, intersections and crosswalks Improve snow removal, particularly on sidewalks and bus stops Improve public transportation accessibility, including handyDART
Employment	Remove barriers for City employees with disabilities Create more accessible hiring processes and workplace accomodations Increase staff competency related to accessibility and disability
Information & Communication	Improve accessibility for digital and non-digital communication methods Improve navigation of City resources Increase customer feedback channels Improve communication about accessibility features and services
Programs & Services	Reduce cost barriers Make City programs more inclusive Provide sensory-friendly spaces Increase accessibility at public and permitted events

Have an accessibility concern or barrier to report? The City of Kelowna now has an online option to report issues so they can be reviewed and responded to by the appropriate department. Submit a service request online.

Find more information about our commitment to accessibility at kelowna.ca/accessibility.