‘The stupidest ramp in the world:’ Why disability advocates say changes are needed at Finch West Station

A coalition advocating for disabled Ontarians is speaking out about the accessibility ramp connecting Line 1 and Line 5.

A coalition advocating for disabled Ontarians is slamming Metrolinx over what it has described as the “stupidest ramp in the world” at Finch West Station.

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance (AODA) said the provincial transit agency “inexplicably and inexcusably” decided to forego an elevator in favour of a 261-foot ramp to connect riders between Line 6 and Line 1 at the station.

“Riders must go up one full floor (11 feet vertical height) on an exhausting 261-foot ramp that only has two landings to rest on the way,” a statement from the group read.

“This creates the illusion of accessibility but certainly not the reality of accessibility for people using wheelchairs or walkers, people with chronic fatigue or chronic pain, or parents pushing strollers.”

The ramp, the AODA said, “makes a mockery of accessibility.”

“A person in a wheelchair could well need a Paralympian’s upper body strength to power their wheelchair up this ridiculous ramp, which is the latest accessibility bungle from Metrolinx,” AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky said in a written statement.

The group pointed to the recently renovated Cedarvale Station, where Metrolinx “correctly” installed an elevator for riders to transfer between Line 1 and Line 5.

“There is no excuse for failing to do the same at the Finch West station,” the coalition said.

In response to the AODA, Metrolinx said the design of the station was done in consultation with the TTC and the TTC’s advisory committee on accessible transit.

“Metrolinx is dedicated to building a transit system that is safe, accessible, and inclusive for all customers,” a spokesperson for Metrolinx said in an email to CP24.

“We recognize the importance of ongoing feedback and continuous improvement. Metrolinx is pursuing user testing with individuals representing a range of disabilities to better understand customer experiences.”