The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has been selected by the StopGap Foundation to receive the Above the Ramp Award, recognizing the Town's efforts to improve accessibility and remove barriers within the community through the StopGap Ramp Program.
The award honors organizations and individuals who demonstrate leadership in creating more inclusive and accessible communities. Local accessibility advocate Pamela TurnerSmith, whose years of advocacy helped inspire the initiative, will also be recognized alongside the Town.
Launched in partnership with the StopGap Foundation following Council approval in July 2025, the StopGap Ramp Program provides eligible businesses with free custom-built portable ramps that improve access for individuals who use wheelchairs, mobility devices, strollers and others who may experience barriers entering businesses with a single step.
Working closely with the Municipal Heritage Committee, the Town selected a heritage-approved ramp colour that complements the character of the Heritage District while maintaining visibility and accessibility.
The first nine ramps were installed at local businesses in December 2025, with a public ribbon-cutting celebration held on March 27, 2026. A second intake of applications resulted in two additional ramps being installed in October 2026, bringing the total number of participating businesses to eleven.
The award will be presented during StopGap's annual fundraiser in Toronto on November 4, 2026, an event that celebrates accessibility champions and raises funds to support barrier-free access initiatives across Canada.
For more information about the Town's accessibility initiatives, visit www.notl.com/accessibility
Media Contact:
Quinton Ascah, Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com