Amramp helps Pope Francis deliver important message

Pope Francis Walking Together

Amramp Edmonton worked closely with Encore event management to design and install a safe sturdy ramp and platform for Pope Francis to access the stage with his wheelchair in a dignified way.

Normand Doyle, Amramp franchise co-owner said, “This is one of the largest events we’ve ever covered, and it was a privilege to be able to go out there and do. Oh, the energy. It was unbelievable. So many people working together; stage designers and the event promoters – it was really impressive to be part of something so large.”

Organizers of the ‘Pilgrimage of Penance’ noted the 85-year-old pontiff will be using a wheelchair during most of his Canadian visit. Due to his advanced age and physical limitations he needed a wheelchair ramp to access some of the venues.

“We feel it’s just been a real pleasure and an honor to be part of this major event that just requires so many pieces to pull together. So it’s just been a really great opportunity for us.” said Barbara Peters, co-owner of the Alberta based Amramp franchise.

Was the Pope's wheelchair ramp a special build?

Amramp’s modular ramp system can be customized for any residential and commercial event.

The parts come in a variety of sizes to allow for different installation types, from L ramps, switchback ramps and straight ramps to larger raised platforms such as those used for the large Catholic Mass at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton, Alberta Canada – you’re getting the same quality ramp Pope Francis used.

“Amramp will provide solutions to each and every individual who requires accessibility from small families to businesses to huge corporate events, such as the Pope’s visit.” said Barbara Peters, Amramp Edmonton franchise owner.

Once we heard of the Pope’s needs, Amramp’s estimating department started to put plans together for two installs: Maskwacis First Nations Reservation set up on July 21st 2022 and Commonwealth Stadium on July 25th 2022.

Noteworthy features of our wheelchair ramp:

The Model of wheelchair ramp at Randolph, MA

HANDRAILS

A handrail on both sides of
the ramp provide stability for
anyone who struggles with stairs
and, for safety, keeping
individuals
from falling off the ramps.

Handrails are required on all
wheelchair ramps over 6 feet
long or over 6 inches high.
That means ramps for two
or more steps will require
handrails for safety and
stability, and the top handrail
should be mounted between
30 and 34 inches above the ramp.

SOLID GRIP

Rails are extended over the end
of the ramp to provide
a grip
for people using a wheelchair as
they approach the ramp.

PLATFORM

A platform at the door provides
a level surface to turn around
or stop to open the door without
falling back on the sloped ramp.

The platform is designed to extend 2
feet beyond the door to allow the
door to swing open and provide
a safe space for someone in a wheelchair.

UNIQUE OPEN MESH SURFACE

The Amramp surface allows moisture
to pass through and prevents puddles,
snow, ice and mold build up.

Wood, aluminum and concrete are
solid surfaces which allow moisture
to accumulate and become dangerous
in certain weather conditions.

Amramp offers the most slip resistant
ramp available.

SLOPE

According to the
Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA), a safe wheelchair ramp
should have a maximum slope
of 1 foot for every inch of rise
and should be at least 36 inches wide.

For example, if you have 3 stairs
that are each 7 inches high, the
wheelchair ramp should be at
least 21 feet long.

See our simple guide: How we measure

Other Amramp features include:

  • Slip resistant

    A mesh design with a raised grip surface and Amramp Grip coating that provides extra stability with dispersed particles in the paint.

  • 5 foot by 5 foot surface

    Installments that land on a clear, level, solid, 5 foot by 5 foot surface to allow for turning in a wheelchair.

  • Fire resistant

    Fireproof materials that provide safe exit in an emergency versus materials such as wood which can fuel a fire or aluminum which can melt from heat.

  • ADA compliant

    The ADA guidelines are a starting point for all ramp designs and installation.

  • Black powder coating

    Black color that induces self-defrosting of the ramp surface in snow and icy conditions

Speak to a local expert

Amramp accessibility experts are available coast-to-coast in the US and parts of Canada and provide free evaluations to help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Amramp Modular Wheelchair Ramps are proudly made in America from 100% recycled and recyclable steel. Even after years of productive use, when our ramps are no longer needed, they can be easily re-used by someone else, rather than discarded.

      Guide for choosing a wheelchair ramp from Amramp, an accessibility company
      Skip to content