On Friday June 8, 2012, the ROM unveiled new doors on the main Bloor Street West entrance to the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal. The former pull doors were replaced with automatic sliding doors to improve accessibility for ROM Members and visitors. They provide universal access regardless of the need of the visitor as they are completely automatic.
"ROM research indicated that there was room for improvement with our entrance, and that many found the previous doors heavy and difficult to use," said Janet Carding, Director and CEO. "We listened to what our visitors had to say and are pleased to be able to address this issue. We want the first point of entry to the Museum to be welcoming, comfortable and easy for everyone."
"I think these doors are definitely an improvement, when you approach them and they automatically open, it's like the doors are inviting you in," said Adam Roy Cohoon, a member of the ROM Accessibility Advisory Committee since 2010 and a patron of the ROM since 2000. Adam is also a member of the Anne Johnston Barrier-Free Advisory Council and of the TTC Advisory Committee on Accessible transportation (ACAT). He is an active speaker on disabilities and accessibility issues. Adam is a wheelchair user and has cerebral palsy.
The new doors were timed to be in place before the June 23 opening of Ultimate Dinosaurs: Giants from Gondwana. In its commitment to accessibility for all visitors, the ROM has an Accessibility Strategy outlining its promise to remove barriers to participation for visitors with disabilities. Throughout the exhibition, several enhancements will be encountered including touchable objects and captioned videos. For specific questions or concerns, call 416.586.8000 prior to visiting. For those who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing, Bell Relay Service can be reached by dialing 711 or 1.800.855.0511.