Elevator Access For the SS Sicamous
The installation of an elevator is something that has been discussed by our members, volunteers and supporters for a very long time. Its installation was a huge step for us. The funding awarded has allowed our Society to make progress that is meaningful to our guests and their families. This project was also especially important to us, as it means that we can accommodate the changing needs of our community. Thank you for making this project possible: Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, City of Penticton, and Government of Canada Enabling Accessibility Fund.
Completed Project
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Completed Elevator. Emergency phone line is due to be installed. Wiring has been finished.
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Completed Elevator – Side View. Elevator has now been inspected and approved for use
Construction of the Elevator and Platform
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view of the stair case, and area where the elevator platform will be installed
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Removal of the first stair case (these stairs will be taken apart, and repurposed as a ramp).
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Volunteers at work, constructing a dock platform for access. Original stairs can be seen in the background.
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Arrival of the Elevator components, on a flatbed truck
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Unloading the elevator components. In this picture you can see the newly fabricated stairs (built to meet building code and safety requirements), the raised wooden dock and concrete platform.
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Lifting the elevator components, using a crane. Access ramp is also in place.
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Elevator components are in place. Next stage is to build the outer covering.
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View of the Construction site
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Completed Elevator. Emergency phone line is due to be installed. Wiring has been finished.
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Cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony.
What has been the impact of this project?
Visitors with disabilities are now able to visit the primary areas of the museum, located on the second level of the ship. By providing additional funding for the elevator, supporters have helped to remove a key barrier to access, and visitors with disabilities can now visit and enjoy this unique part of their heritage.
The future impact of this project
When groups from senior’s homes come to visit, we will be able to provide them with a full tour of passenger levels of the ship. Local residents are now able to experience the museum for the first time. Grandparents are able to tour the upper deck with their families. Visitors that have recently undergone operations no longer need to struggle up the stairs. Newly engaged couples will be able to include elderly relatives in the wedding celebrations. Elderly mourners are able to attend memorial services, without needing to consider access. Visitors with reduced mobility can participate in community events. Long-time donors and supporters of the ship will be able to see first-hand the restoration and improvements that their donations have enabled, even if their health makes stairs a challenge. Children with disabilities will be able to accompany their classmates on school tours of the ship.
Now that this project has been completed, we will need to maintain the equipment, which will be budgeted for and financed through fundraising and admissions income. Without the grant we would never have been able to attempt a project on this scale. Impact will be felt for many, many years to come.
Funding was provided by
