An architects drawing of the new front entrance at Belleville city hall with the elevator at the left of the bottom of the steps, January 25, 2015. (Photo: Mary
Thomas/Quinte News)
A major construction project to make Belleville’s city hall more accessible will get underway this year.
After looking at a number of options to replace the present lift at the city hall entrance, last night city council decided on a major adjustment to the elevator itself.
Last year Chief building officer Ted Maracek had reported on the difficulties in meeting provincial standards and heritage standards at the same time since city hall is a heritage building.
Architect Ray Zabak recommended lowering the present elevator to the floor of the entrance, improving the entrance so that anyone with disabilities would have access.
During construction this summer, public access would be by the Market Street entrance and those with disabilities would have escorted access at the back entrance, off Market Square.
The project budget is $483,000.
