Gender-neutral loo plan flushed till 2015

NEWS/ CITY HALL — Installation of a gender-neutral family washroom in Riverside Park isn’t likely to happen for another year.

A report to City council from parks, recreation and cultural services director Byron McCorkell says the $120,000 project should be put off until 2015 because there are plans to replace the nasty old concrete-block facilities already there.

McCorkell says public feedback indicates new washrooms are high on the list of wants, and the $120,000 would be better put towards a more permanent washroom solution than towards what’s known as a Portland Loo.

The Portland Loo is a self-contained flush toilet kiosk designed for public areas. “The loos are free to the public and accessible around the clock every day of the year,” states a parks and recreation website from the City of Portland, Oregon. “Portland Loos give the community clean, safe, and environmentally friendly restroom facilities.”

However, the Portland Loo went up in price and now exceeds the approved budget, the report says. So, staff have been looking at other options for a gender-neutral washroom that would address issues of people with disabilities and their need to be accompanied by a caregiver while in the washroom.

The Riverside to Pioneer Park management plan includes the washrooms and concession building in Riverside Park and will provide a long-term solution.

The draft plan will be ready for council soon.