Increasing Accessibility in Port Colborne

The City of Port Colborne is partnering with the StopGap Foundation to  enhance  accessibility across our community. In support of this goal, the Seniors Advisory Committee and the Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee are pleased to announce the launch of the StopGap Ramp Program — an initiative designed to provide access for individuals using mobility devices, strollers, or those who may have difficulty managing a single step.

City Council has approved funding to support the project, and we encourage all Port Colborne businesses to participate. Please note that funding is limited, so we recommend applying as soon as possible. Businesses will be required to pay StopGap Foundation for construction and delivery of the ramp, with the City reimbursing the full amount. 

The program reflects Port Colborne's ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone who lives, works, and visits here. By taking part, business owners can make a meaningful difference, not only by improving access for their customers, but also by demonstrating leadership in meeting the goals of Ontario’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Together, we can continue to build a community where accessibility is a shared value and a visible part of how we do business every day.

How do the ramps work?

The StopGap Ramp Program offers a temporary, portable ramp to businesses with a single front step, which can be an obstacle for some individuals. These ramps make it easier and safer for people to enter local businesses, promoting inclusion across our community.

Ramps may be temporarily placed on the sidewalk outside a business entrance during business hours, provided they do not interfere with the public right-of-way. This flexible, as-needed solution allows businesses to improve accessibility without making permanent alterations or obstructing pedestrian traffic.

Each participating business will also receive signage with contact information, so patrons can notify staff when the ramp is needed.

Once approved, a ramp will be custom-built to fit the specific entryway. As the ramp is temporary and removable, a building permit is not required.

Businesses can expect to receive their ramp within four to six weeks after the payment is processed and the agreement is completed. 
How To Qualify

To ensure safety, suitability, and program integrity, participating businesses must meet the following requirements. The business or organization must:

  • Be located within the City of Port Colborne.
  • Have a single-step entrance between 2 and 7 inches (5.08 - 17.78 cm) at the primary public access point.
  • Have sufficient clearance remaining on the sidewalk to safely deploy and use the ramp.
  • Provide sufficient clearance for safe ramp deployment and usage.
  • Agree to pay for the cost of the ramp, including delivery from StopGap Foundation. While ramps can range between $350 to $475, depending on step height, the city will reimburse the full amount, less the HST, once proof of payment has been submitted.
  • Sign an agreement with the StopGap Foundation, including:
    • Acceptance of responsibility and liability for ramp use.
    • Commitment to store the ramp when not in use, ensure it is only out during business hours, and maintain it (e.g., snow/ice removal).
Insurance and Other Requirements
 Once approved, the following conditions apply:

  • The business owner must indemnify the city by signing an Indemnity Agreement. This agreement will be provided directly by the city.
  • The business owner must sign a user agreement with the StopGap Foundation. This agreement will be provided directly by the foundation.
  • The business owner will be required to provide an annual Certificate of Insurance for $5 million in liability coverage, naming the City of Port Colborne as an additional insured. Depending on location, St. Lawrence Management Group and Transport Canada and His Majesty the King may also need to be named.

  • The business owner is responsible for ongoing maintenance, repair, and replacement of the ramp.

  • Ramps must be kept free of snow, ice, and debris at all times.

  • Ramps must be removed from the sidewalk when not being actively used. 
How to Apply

The application process is simple but requires you to provide photos of your storefront and the step leading into your business.

If you need assistance with the application, please contact olga.loeffen@portcolborne.ca.

Apply now!