Various Vancouver Island communities have rolled out seasonal beach mats, making it easier for people with mobility challenges to soak up some sunshine and enjoy ocean views. The accessible mats, known as Mobi-Mats, are back at Ross Bay in Victoria and Willows Beach in Oak Bay, according to the municipalities in social media posts. Nanaimo, meanwhile, has mats at Departure Bay Beach, Colliery Dam Park, Neck Point Park and Loudon Park, an advocacy group shared on Facebook .
It lauds the initiative, saying helps instill confidence in people with disabilities. “I am sure they will be well used by many members of our community,” said Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog last June, when the city expanded its Mobi-Mat fleet to more locations, based on popularity and suitability for instillation. “This mat provides a smooth and stable surface for wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges to access the rocky beach,” the City of Victoria said, adding it helps create “an inclusive recreation space” on a summer’s day.
The city notes that the Ross Bay beach mat, an ongoing feat in B.C.’s capital since 2021, can be accessed via the sidewalk along Dallas Road.
Story continues below View this post on Instagram A post shared by City of Victoria (@cityofvictoria) The District of Oak Bay adds that its mat “will ensure that everyone – including those with accessibility concerns – can enjoy the beauty of Willows Beach!” There, Sandra Birrell is a big fan. The Oak Bay wom.
