cut: Wheelchair accessibility at the Railway and Forestry Museum brings new experiences, like riding the mini-rail train, to residents and volunteers from Jubilee Lodge. From left: Joan Crawford, Agnes Gagnon, June Kachkowski, Shelley Flynn, Erhard Windhaber, Bill Theessen and Helen Roberts.
Improvements at the Central B.C. Railway and Forestry Museum in Prince George now allow residents using wheelchairs and strollers to participate in events and visit the many historic venues and artifacts offered.
The museum is now wheelchair and stroller accessible with wooden ramps and paved pathways completed during the $75,000 project.
"Museums are the cornerstone of any community. They help communities connect with the past so they can understand the present and forge ahead to a strong future. As a museum, accessibility is paramount to building onto the strength of an inclusive community," said Ranjit Gill, executive director.
"The Railway and Forestry Museum is an educational facility for the young to learn about their heritage. It is the memories of our seniors that make this heritage and our history possible. "Improved accessibility enables the young and the young at heart to explore together, share memories and create new ones."
Mary Anne Arcand, president of the eight-member board of directors, said since completion of the project in late summer it's been a pleasure to see parents and grandparents sharing their stories and work memories about trains and sawmills with younger family members.
"We've also had bus loads of seniors from residences come to visit," said Arcand, who's always looking for new members and volunteers who are interested in helping to preserve our history.
The federal government's Enabling Accessibility Fund program provided $50,000 towards the project. Cash and in kind donors included Prince George Community Foundation, Nechako Rotary Club, Carrier Lumber, Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 43 and Husky Energy.
