As an assessment of Softball Yukon’s facilities continue, the organization is publicly stating its commitment to maintaining accessibility standards at the ball diamonds.

Officials said in a statement this morning the organization is awaiting a city report on a full inspection of its facilities. That follows concerns raised over accessibility at its Pepsi Softball Centre complex and fields off Robert Service Way.

Over the past two weeks, ball fans have brought forward a number of issues to city council, which has been considering a new lease for Softball Yukon.

Council members voted Monday to make changes to a memorandum of understanding set to be attached to a proposed new lease for the group.

The changes require Softball Yukon to review accessibility at its facilities along with requiring the city to provide advice and assist with the review.

Council heard a number of ball fans have stopped attending games at the local fields due to the accessibility challenges.

Suggestions for upgrades included paved pathways; washrooms that are more accessible, closer to the stands and gender-neutral; designated parking for fans with disabilities; and wider bleachers, as well as more safety rails along the bleacher stairs.

Other ideas are better enforcement of the no-smoking regulations and seating for companions of wheelchair users.

Softball Yukon had been looking at the issue of accessibility, but sought a full facility inspection after the concerns arose.

This morning, the softball organization stressed its commitment to delivering a quality experience for fans while meeting its mandate to promote and develop their sport.

“Softball Yukon has been, and always will be, committed to maintaining national, territorial and municipal standards for accessibility,” said Bill Stonehouse, Softball Yukon’s president.

Executive director George Arcand noted he’s continuing to work with municipal and territorial officials to ensure accessibility standards are met.

He pointed out that where space and logistics permit, chairs have been brought in for companions of wheelchair users.

While it does its best to enforce no smoking in the stands, as a volunteer group, it just doesn’t have the resources to enforce territorial legislation and city bylaws at all times.

Arcand also pointed out when upgrades to the park were made a few years ago, a review by local advocate Rick Goodfellow resulted in a number of improvements including the widening of the entrance gate and the current designated wheelchair seating.

“All that being said, we are certainly open to improving things where we can,” Arcand added.

“We are proud of the centre and all the fields, and believe that we provide a valued, safe, fun and inclusive sport for Yukoners.”

Any changes coming out of the inspection will be done next spring, prior to ball season starting up.

Arcand said he will continue updating both the Softball Yukon board and public on the process as it moves forward.