In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1984. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: In the August 30, 1984 edition of the Whistler Question, a letter to the editor called for more wheelchair ramps to be installed in the Whistler Village, which had very few at the time. This letter was supported by another letter in the September 13, 1984 edition in which the letter writer described how she saw two wheelchair users from her office window who became increasingly frustrated while trying a ramp to access Village Square. In 1985, the year after this question was posed to Question readers, Rick Hansen’s Man in Motion Tour raised awareness of accessibility throughout Canada and internationally.
Question: Do you think more handicapped access is needed in the Village?
Rebecca Renfrew – Computer Programmer – Alpine Meadows
Yes, I definitely do. I feel it’s lacking – you don’t see any ramps. It seems as if the stores and restaurants want to cater to people who are not handicapped. I’m sure there are always ways of improving it without tremendous expense. It’s a matter of wanting to do it.
Hatto Horn – Chef – Alta Vista
It would make a difference to have a few ramps. They should do it, it wouldn’t cost that much.
Barbara Voncina – Housekeeper – Tapley’s Farm
It’s always a problem getting into a major building (with a stroller). I would say just one ramp in a central location would help.