If you picked up the last issue of Xtra, you may have read the delicious Michael Pihach’s editorial about the ongoing closure of Crews and Tango. Michael explains that he couldn’t find out why the bar closed, let alone who actually owns it. It turns out that rumours that the old house will be torn down to make way for condos are unfounded; the lot isn’t big enough. So, Michael says, it’s time for the owner to speak up and explain what’s happening.
I never went to Crews and Tango. The stairs at the front door kind of got in the way. Michael’s piece got me thinking; could they install a ramp before they reopen? So, I scoped out the front of the building and I do think there is room to put a ramp along the front, under the raised French doors. Of course, a ramp would not be the end of the story to make the building wheelchair accessible. There would have to be a gender-neutral, wheelchair accessible washroom installed and probably some doors widened. Ideally, there would be an elevator up to the second floor, but I realize that it is an old building.
The Barn underwent some renovations when it reopened a couple of years ago. It was inaccessible before it closed and it still is. I’m told that I might be able to get in the front door, but all of the action happens upstairs. If I do get in, hopefully I won’t have to pee; the washroom is too small. The Barn lost a major opportunity: If they had widened their doors, reconfigured their washroom, and put the dance floor on the main level, I would be a customer. Statistics show that 54% of Americans either have a disability or are related to someone who is. That’s a hell of a lot of buying power! The Barn doesn’t get any of my money, but they also don’t get any of my friends when we go out together.
Michael thinks it’s time for the Crews owners to speak up and explain what’s happening. I say it’s also time for them to take the opportunity to make the building accessible. Not only is it the right thing to do, it is a great investment.
Photo credit: xtra.ca/Pink Triangle Press
