Fernie Memorial Arena Accessibility Gets $40,000 Boost |

The Fernie Memorial Arena is receiving $40,000 in accessibility funding through the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program, helping make one of Fernie’s important recreation facilities more accessible and inclusive.

The funding, provided by the Rick Hansen Foundation in collaboration with RBC and RBC Foundation, will support improvements to the arena entrance, automatic doors and accessible recreation equipment.

Accessibility Improvements at Fernie Memorial Arena

The City of Fernie will use the $40,000 grant for three improvements:

Improved entrance access: Replacing asphalt at the arena entrance to create a smoother, safer surface for people using wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Automatic entrance doors: Installing automatic doors with accessible push-button controls to make entering and exiting the arena easier.
Inclusive recreation equipment: Purchasing a comfort-sled to expand accessible recreation opportunities.

As a grant recipient, the City will also receive a Permobil wheelchair for use by visitors, recreation participants and community members at City facilities.

Part of a Canada-Wide Accessibility Initiative

The RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program was launched to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Rick Hansen’s historic Man In Motion World Tour.

The national initiative awarded 40 grants of up to $40,000 to municipalities, schools and community organizations across Canada to remove physical barriers and improve accessibility.

Fernie’s project, officially identified as “Opening Doors: Fernie Memorial Arena Accessibility Enhancements and Inclusive Recreation Improvements,” is among the 2026 grant recipients.