FORT ERIE (May 31, 2022) – In recognition and celebration of National AccessAbility Week,
Town Council approved the purchase of a pool lift for the E.J. Freeland Centre to assist those
with mobility challenges to enter the pool independently and safely.
The report to Council also acknowledged the monetary donations from the Ridgeway Lions Club
and the Fort Erie Lions Club of $1,250 each and the in-kind donation by the Boys and Girls Club
of Niagara to finalize the purchase, oversee installation, and train the staff on the use of the lift.
Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) member, Lori Brant, who spearheaded the initiative
noted “I can’t tell you how freeing it is to swim. Moving unrestricted in water without gravity
makes me feel like I used to before the wheelchair”.
Council representative on the Committee, Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes, noted during the
meeting, “This is a wonderful thing and special thanks to Lori for doing all the research. We talk
about aging in place and the need to increase physical activity. Swimming is a great way to do
that and this lift will allow a lot of people with mobility problems to access the pool. This will be
a huge asset to our aging population”.
The lift will be purchased and installed by Motion Specialties, a Niagara-based mobility firm, at
a cost of $14,735.20. Installation is anticipated to take place shortly.
The addition of the pool lift also helps fulfill the AAC’s mission to be an accessible community
for all.
For more information please contact Beverley Bradnam, Manager, Strategic Initiatives, at
bbradnam@forterie.ca – 905-871-1600 ext. 2201.

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