Accessibility rights group to launch complaint over narrow Laurier Park sidewalk

An accessibility rights group is raising concernsabout the newly-constructed narrowsidewalk on Brebeuf Street next to Laurier Park.

• Narrow Laurier Park sidewalk provokes ire of Plateau-Mont-Royal residents

LindaGauthier, the president ofRAPLIQ,says the smallsidewalk establishes a standard that is worrying for people with disabilities.

The group plans to filea complaint with Montreal's ombudsman.

"We think it's very,very dangerous because it creates a precedent," saidGauthier.

"They did it once, so they can do it again."

At 70 centimetres across, the sidewalk is just barely wide enough for a small baby stroller but it won't fit a wheelchair.

Half of the sidewalk's width was eliminated to make room for a bike path while preserving parking spaces.

Mayor Denis Coderresaysthere is a standard sidewalk on the other side of the street that can be used.

Gauthier says this particular sidewalk is a done deal but she hopes their voices are heard.

"With this sidewalk nothing will change, I'm almost sure of that. For the future, they won't do it again. That's my best hope," Gauthier said.

The group plans to file their complaint on World Disability Daythis Thursday.