Dear Editor,
I recently visited the new McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Vancouver Airport mall and was very impressed to see properly marked accessible parking spots.
They included some spots with wider hash marks to accomodate vans with ramps or lifts for individuals who use wheelchairs for everyday mobility.
Accessible parking spots were originally developed back in the 1970s for those in wheelchairs who drove their own vehicles and need extra space to get their wheelchairs in and out of the car independently.
Now, most accessible parking placards are given to individuals who do not use a wheelchair and in most cases do not need the wider parking spots.
Now, we are beginning to see van-accessible spots in lots, recognizing the need for those who use wheelchairs and have a larger vehicle or a van.
I hope those who have a placard but do not use wheelchair use regular spots when they can, leaving the van-accessible spots for those who truly need them.
Vince Miele
Chair
Richmond Centre for Disability (RCD)
