Improving Seniors' Accessibility

An elevator will be installed in the Ferry Lane Seniors Complex in Guysborough, Ray White, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, announced today.

"This elevator is a perfect example of how the government of Nova Scotia is committed to improving accessibility for seniors in provincially owned buildings," said the minister.

The province houses more than 9,200 seniors in 472 buildings throughout Nova Scotia. The average age of residents is 75. The department recognizes that seniors are living longer and enjoying fuller, more independent lives. To assist the quality of life for these seniors, an elevator retrofit program has been implemented.

Elevators were installed in four senior citizens buildings last year in the province. The Ferry Lane complex in Guysborough is the second seniors' building to benefit from the program this year.

The cost of installing the elevator will be shared among the federal, provincial and municipal governments. This program demonstrates how the three levels of government are working together to improve life in rural communities across the province, said Mr. White.

Tenders for the Guysborough elevator installation will be called in August.