A recent report from city staff indicates that Regina's efforts to improve inclusiveness are progressing, but public feedback paints a more tepid picture of satisfaction. The city's accessibility master plan, adopted in 2024, aims to make civic spaces, services, and programs more inclusive for people with disabilities by 2033.
At a Wednesday meeting, the executive committee received an update on the plan's implementation. According to the report, 74 of the 80-plus actions are either completed or underway, and on schedule to meet the deadline. However, Diana Burton, director of recreation and cultural services, noted that continued progress depends on annual funding availability.
Public Survey Results
The report includes results from a February survey of 102 residents. Most respondents reported being either "slightly satisfied" or "slightly unsatisfied" with the city's accessibility improvements. Roads and sidewalks emerged as the top priority, followed by transportation barriers such as transit and snow clearing—consistent with findings from when the plan was drafted in 2023.
Sidewalk Repairs and Funding
Ward 4 Coun. Mark Burton described the state of cracked sidewalks as an "epidemic." Chris Warren, director of roadways and transportation, said crews repair over 500 sidewalk breaks annually, but a backlog persists partly due to changes in inspection methods. A $500,000 budgetary increase for 2026 will fund an additional 50 repairs and the installation of 32 pedestrian ramps beyond the usual 55.
Staff are also preparing a report for the 2027 budget submission on ways to boost repair rates and reconsider sidewalk construction methods.
Other Achievements
Notable accomplishments include installing 41 accessible pedestrian crossings since 2022, launching the PedApp mobile app last year, and training about 30% of city staff in disability awareness. Accessible signage has been added to city facilities, and an inclusive hiring strategy is under development.
However, the report notes that perceptions of accessibility decreased between 2023 and 2026 in the area of financial services and funding. The survey coincided with the city's announcement to phase out coin-fed parking meters this spring, which respondents cited in negative feedback.
Work continues on snow clearing and other targets, including plans to hire a sign language interpreter for city events, announcements, and council meetings.
