The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) proudly announces that significant steps have been taken toward a more inclusive future by endorsing the region’s first-ever Accessibility Plan.
The Plan was officially endorsed at the RDNO Board of Directors meeting on July 16, 2025, and was enacted by the Accessible BC Act and its associated regulations. The North Okanagan Accessibility Plan outlines a collaborative, regional approach to improving accessibility across communities. Rather than each local government developing separate plans, the RDNO Electoral Areas and local municipalities have joined forces to create a unified strategy, supported by grant funding from Disability Alliance BC.
“This plan is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together,” said Shirley Fowler, RDNO Board of Directors Chair. “It reflects the voices of our residents and staff and sets a clear path forward to remove barriers and build a more inclusive North Okanagan.”
The Plan was shaped by input from residents and staff, and developed in partnership with the Intermunicipal Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) and consultant Urban Matters CCC. The AAC played a key role in designing the public engagement process and reviewing community feedback, which directly informed the Plan’s priorities.
The Accessibility Plan focuses on six key action areas:
- Accessible Built Environment and Outdoor Recreation
- Safe and User-friendly Transportation Networks
- Inclusive Programs and Services
- Accessible Communication and Access to Information
- Collaboration and Leadership to Remove Barriers
- Educated and Aware Civil Servants and Community Members
Moving forward, each local government will be responsible for implementing the Plan’s actions within their communities, with continued collaboration and support from the AAC.
The RDNO encourages all member municipalities to review and endorse the North Okanagan Accessibility Plan, reinforcing a shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion. For more information, or to view the North Okanagan Accessibility Plan, please visit www.rdno.ca/accessibility.
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For media inquiries:
Stacey Raftus, Communications Officer
communications@rdno.ca