Federal Investment Helps LCDS Improve Accessibility
LCDS Completes Accessibility Upgrades at 339 Centre St. Petrolia, with Support from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund
Petrolia, ON – July 16, 2026 – Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS) is proud to announce the completion of major accessibility upgrades at its Administration Building at 339 Centre St. in Petrolia made possible through a $60,292 investment from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF).
Construction began in May 2026 and wrapped up in June 2026, delivering meaningful improvements that make the building more accessible and welcoming for the people LCDS supports, their families, staff, and visitors. Upgrades include a newly constructed accessible ramp connecting the east and west sides of the building, as well as three fully retrofitted accessible washrooms, one on the main level and two on the lower level.
Erin Allenson uses the newly constructed accessible ramp connecting the west and east sides of the LCDS Administration Office at 339 Centre St. in Petrolia.
“These upgrades reflect our commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels included, supported, and able to participate fully,” said Nick Salaris, Executive Director of LCDS. “Accessibility is at the heart of our mission to empower people with developmental disabilities, and we are grateful for the Government of Canada’s support in helping us bring this vision to life.”
Commenting on the funding, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, said “Construction and upgrade accessibility projects in communities like Lambton County create safe, inclusive spaces where people can work, connect, and access services. By supporting projects like this through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, we’re helping to ensure everyone can participate fully and succeed, as we continue to strengthen communities and build a more inclusive Canada.”
The project aligns with the goals of the Accessible Canada Act (ACA) and the principle of “Nothing Without Us,” which emphasizes the importance of involving people with disabilities in shaping the policies and environments that affect them. By improving physical accessibility, LCDS is helping advance a barrier‑free Canada and strengthening inclusion within the developmental services sector and within the Lambton County Community.
The upgrades were completed by Innovative Construction Services, based in Corunna, Ontario.
For more information, contact:
Diana Forbes
Communications & Engagement Manager,
Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS)
dforbes@lcds.on.ca
226-932-7873
lcdspetrolia.ca
