Item - 2018.EX32.10

The Executive Committee:

1.  Direct the General Manager, Facilities Management to report back in the first quarter of 2019 with a plan to implement the Dynamic Symbol of Access for City-owned properties.

Facilities Management (FM) was directed to report back to Executive Committee in the first quarter of 2018 regarding a plan to implement the Dynamic Symbol of Access (DSA) for City-owned properties. This report has been prepared in consultation with Toronto Building, Transportation Services, and the Toronto Parking Authority.

The Ontario Building Code (OBC) contains the standards for new construction, renovation and change of use.  Where accessible signage is required, the Code prescribes that the International Symbol of Access (ISA) be used.  It does not reference the Dynamic Symbol of Access.  At its meeting on January 31 and February 1, 2018, City Council requested the Province of Ontario to amend the Ontario Building Code and Highway Traffic Act to allow the use of the modernized accessibility symbol (DSA).

Transportation Services must operate under the legislation of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) in Ontario. Like the Ontario Building Code, the Highway Traffic Act recognizes the International Symbol of Access as the accepted access symbol standard. As such, Transportation Services cannot issue street signs with the new symbol without contravening the Act.

While City Council directed Facilities Management to report back in consultation with Toronto Building, Transportation Services, and the Toronto Parking Authority on implementing the new symbol on City-owned properties, there are many other stakeholders that need to be involved in the development of a comprehensive City of Toronto plan. For example, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Long-Term Care Homes and Services, and Toronto Water all operate significant portfolios that would be affected by a change to the accessibility symbol.

Given the legislative barriers to implement the Dynamic Symbol of Access on all City-owned properties and the need for additional stakeholder engagement, Facilities Management will report back in the first quarter of 2019 with an implementation plan.