Accessibility of Chase Meadows Recreational Trail
The Township of South Stormont is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible community where all residents can fully participate in municipal programs, services, and facilities. In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), the Township works to identify, prevent, and remove barriers to accessibility. As a designated public sector organization, the Township is required to comply with established accessibility standards, maintain accessibility policies, and implement a multi-year accessibility plan to support ongoing progress toward a barrier-free community.
In accordance with the AODA, municipalities are required to consult with the public—particularly persons with disabilities—when designing or redeveloping public spaces to help identify, remove, and prevent barriers.
The Township will be seeking feedback on the following:
1. Accessible Ramp and Handrail at the Train Station, Lost Villages
2. Chase Meadows Recreational Trail
3. Sidewalk Repairs (Dickinson Drive, Hickory Street, Wales Drive)
4. County Road 29 Transfer Station
Recreational Trail - Chase Meadows
Project Overview
The proposed project will create a new multi-use asphalt recreational trail connecting Chase Meadows Park on Forrester Way to Mille Roches Road and the existing trail section near the Long Sault Arena and the tennis courts. The design has been developed to support safe, accessible travel for people of all ages and abilities, with a maximum running and cross slope of 1:20 to meet AODA requirements. Additional design features include controlled access gates at entry points to limit motorized vehicle use while maintaining a 5-foot pedestrian opening, as well as ladder-style pavement markings at the Jim Brownell Boulevard crossing to enhance pedestrian safety.
The project also incorporates newly designed trail signage developed in consultation with the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility to ensure compliance with AODA requirements for visual contrast, font clarity, and accessibility information at trailheads. As part of ongoing accessibility improvements, consideration will be given to installing concrete pads adjacent to the trail to provide accessible access to benches and waste receptacles at key locations. Opportunities may also be explored to incorporate additional accessibility features at road crossings, such as tactile surfaces, to further enhance safety and wayfinding for all users.
Trail Highlights
- Maximum cross slope of 1:20 (5%)
- Controlled access gates (5ft pedestrian opening)
- 3 metres wide
- Asphalt
- Pedestrian and cyclist asphalt markings
