The inaugural Bowen Island Municipality Accessibility Advisory Committee has diligently worked since November 2023 to complete this first Accessibility Action Plan. This marks an important milestone in our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accessible community. Stay tuned for updates as we move into the implementation phase, guided by our newly appointed committee members for the upcoming term.
Accessibility Awareness Week: May 31, 2026 – June 6, 2026
In recognition of Accessibility Awareness Week (May 31 to June 6, 2026), Bowen Island Municipality (BIM) is highlighting recent efforts to improve access, inclusion, and participation across the community.
Since adopting its first Accessibility Action Plan in July 2025, BIM has advanced several initiatives to reduce barriers:
- Council Chambers accessibility upgrades:
Improved audio-visual systems, including additional screens, upgraded cameras and microphones, and Auracast technology, enhance public participation in Council, Committee, and engagement sessions. This project was supported by a $25,000 SPARC BC Local Community Accessibility Grant. - Theatre access:
- Portable railings now provide safer, easier access to seating while maintaining full flexibility for retractable theatre configurations.
- Enhanced audio accessibility is anticipated with thanks to SKY’s donation of Auracast technology.
- Priority parking at the Community Centre:
Priority parking signage for individuals with mobility challenges is available by request when booking events. - Inclusive recreation access:
The Recreation Department offers customized fitness centre orientations, including recent sessions for members of the Canadian Organization of the Blind and DeafBlind.
These actions reflect BIM’s commitment to building a more inclusive community. Residents are encouraged to learn more and share their feedback.
Feedback Opportunities
Bowen Island Municipality welcomes feedback on accessibility on an ongoing basis and strives to provide all possible channels for community members to share their input. Please feel free to provide your feedback via:
- Website Form: Provide your feedback by typing it into the boxes on this feedback page.
- Survey and Open Feedback: Print out and fill in this form, or do it online here by filling out this fillable pdf.
- Phone Voicemail: Call us at 778-897-3296 (or ext. 600 to BIM’s 604-947-4255)
- Text Number: Send a text to 778-897-0559
- Email Address: Your email to aac@bimbc.ca will be received by the Accessibility Advisory Committee.
- Mailing Address: Pop it in the mail to 580 Bowen Island Trunk Road, Bowen Island, V0N 1G2.
- Dropbox Address: Come down to the Community Centre and provide your feedback anonymously in the Dropbox, or have a chat with staff at 580 Bowen Island Trunk Road.
Accessibility on Bowen Island
Did you know that you can borrow medical equipment from the library? Crutches, wheelchairs, bathroom and bed assists… and more! Check out the Med Shed webpage.
And check out the Mountain Trike! It’s a manual, all-terrain wheelchair that you can take to the park and enjoy the trails.
Funding Opportunities for Accessibility Initiatives
Watch this space! We will continue to update as grant opportunities become available.
News
Community Centre Accessibility Update – February 24, 2026
Read the Accessibility Action Plan.