Breaking Barriers in Odessa: New Opportunities for All
«Our goal is to create a city without barriers, where everyone feels dignified and comfortable,» stated Odessa's mayor, Gennady Trukhanov.
The week of barrier-free initiatives, declared on a national level, concluded in Odessa with a vibrant event called «Sport Without Barriers». Throughout the day, residents had the opportunity to explore inclusive sports venues, participate in workshops, and enjoy training sessions, regardless of their abilities.
«We are building a society where everyone can live, work, and thrive without obstacles. This initiative was launched by our President and the First Lady of Ukraine. We are continuously working to eliminate barriers in all aspects of life. We pay special attention to our veterans, as sports serve as a critical element for their reintegration into civilian life,» emphasized Gennady Trukhanov.
According to Alexey Morozov, the city mayor's advisor on barrier-free spaces, the week was exceptionally fruitful and started with the commencement of construction works on the pedestrian part of the inclusive route «North - South» - the largest pedestrian segment of this kind in Ukraine under the National Project «Movement Without Barriers».
Additionally, together with project experts, key locations along the inclusive route were inspected, including recreational infrastructure along the coastline. Preparations are underway for the opening of an updated inclusive beach at the 11th station of the Great Fountain and a sports ground where people with disabilities can practice. Plans also include the construction of a large inclusive swimming pool, as sea waves can pose a significant challenge for many individuals with disabilities.
«We can confidently state that barrier-free initiatives are a strategy for the city’s development, implemented through specific decisions and thoughtful space organization. The Barrier-Free Council, which includes veterans and people with disabilities, defines our work priorities,» remarked Alexey Morozov.
Odessa has also achieved notable successes in adaptive sports. Recently, the Odessa veteran rowing team returned from Greece, where they successfully navigated a long route across the Aegean Sea. Athletes also participated in a friendly regatta called «Heroes' Regatta - 2025» in Dnipro, organized for the Day of Heroes of Ukraine. Furthermore, adaptive sports disciplines such as billiards, Thai boxing, golf, and others are actively developing.
«Everything we are doing now takes into account the needs of people with disabilities, veterans, and mobility-impaired groups. From infrastructure and recreational areas to culture and sports development, our goal is to create a barrier-free city, where everyone feels dignified and comfortable,» concluded Gennady Trukhanov.
