Imperial Parking Canada Corporation (Impark Canada) is pleased to announce the first implementation of the Dynamic Symbol of Access (DSA) at an Impark-managed parking facility. An invitation-only painting event took place in Toronto on May 1 to commemorate the initiative’s successful launch.

 

A Symbolic Change

As reported on February 28, 2018, Impark Canada is working together with The Forward Movement to update the way it marks accessible parking spaces nationwide.

Beginning this month, Impark is phasing out the industry-standard International Symbol of Access (ISA) in favour of the Dynamic Symbol of Access (DSA). The DSA is intended to advance symbolism that recognizes the personal autonomy of people with disabilities and promotes a healthy dialogue about accessibility barriers and challenges.

“We’re delighted to have broken ground with this important social initiative,” Gordon Craig, president of Impark Canada, said. “Together with The Forward Movement, we hope to lead our industry and clients to a more inclusive future by demonstrating our commitment to barrier-free parking.”

Representatives from The Forward Movement and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital (Holland Bloorview), Ontario’s first healthcare facility to adopt the DSA and a key Impark client, attended the painting event.

“It’s fantastic that Impark has adopted the Dynamic Symbol of Access,” Stewart Wong, Holland Bloorview’s vice-president of communications, marketing, and advocacy, said. “In doing so, they are serving as a role model for all of us to address the need for greater accessibility in all that we do.”

“We’re really excited to continue spreading our message of access and inclusion with Impark,” Dylan Itzikowitz, co-founder of The Forward Movement, added. “We hope this will encourage other high-profile organizations to follow suit and adopt the DSA.”

The Painting Event

The painting event was held on May 1 in the heart of Toronto’s financial district. Attendees were invited to help repaint accessible parking spaces with the updated accessibility symbol.

About Impark

Impark is one of North America’s largest and most successful parking management companies. Since its inception in 1962, Impark has transformed from a single surface lot operator into an industry trailblazer with a portfolio of over 3,600 locations. As of 2018, the company employs over 8,700 personnel in more than 334 cities and generates in excess of $1.5B in annual revenue for its clients.

Impark’s strong entrepreneurial drive and dedication to superior service has led it to develop a selection of value-added services that includes valet, shuttle, enforcement, automated solutions, and revenue control.

About The Forward Movement

The Forward Movement is a non-profit advocacy and awareness group campaigning for the legal adoption of the Dynamic Symbol of Access in Canada. The initiative is led by Jonathan Silver and Dylan Itzikowitz.

About Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital creates a world of possibility by supporting children and youth living with disability, medical complexity, illness and injury. Holland Bloorview is a top 40 Canadian research hospital that is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto and serves 7,500 families annually. Providing both inpatient and outpatient services, Holland Bloorview is renowned for its expertise in partnering with clients and families to provide exceptional care.