A new elevator and accessible washrooms will highlight the improvements coming to the Wheatley Area Arena.
Accessibility was a major priority when the public was asked for feedback during a consultation period in May. The municipality also asked about aesthetics and the overall experience at the arena.
Barrier-free renovations to the second floor washroom and the construction of a universal washroom on the first-floor will be a main priority of the project.
The elevator and barrier removals are intended to help those with limited mobility access the meeting space on the second floor.
As the Wheatley Legion Hall and the Car Barn Hall haven't been an option for large-scale gatherings, the meeting space at the arena remains one of the last places to get together.
An additional benefit of removing barriers on the second floor will be providing access to the top deck of the stands for viewing arena events.
The estimated cost of the accessibility improvements is $850,000. It will be considered as part of the 2025 municipal budget.