Barrier-Free Odessa: New Opportunities for Everyone
Odessa city council members have approved changes to the program previously known as «Equality», now renamed «Barrier-Free Odessa».
A key change includes plans to open a beach for people with disabilities at the 11th station of the Great Fountain this year.
Mayor Gennady Trukhanov mentioned that the initial cost for the capital works is estimated at 21.3 million UAH. Funds were allocated during the Odessa city council session on February 5 for developing project documentation that will provide a more accurate figure.
The last renovation at the beach took place in 2019. The aggressive marine environment necessitates repairs to the ramp and stairs, as well as the installation of a new deck. A medical station and restroom will also be renovated, with updates to the sewage system.
«Our resort city is currently the only one providing conditions for marine rehabilitation for people with limited mobility, including our veterans who lost limbs in the war and children with disabilities,» said Gennady Trukhanov.
The mayor also reminded that plans are in place to implement an inclusive sports playground at the «Dolphin» beach ahead of the new rehabilitation season. This decision has been approved by the Executive Committee.
Gennady Trukhanov added that the municipality plans to establish a robust rehabilitation base in southern Ukraine. As part of the program, over 20 million UAH will be spent on purchasing equipment for rehabilitation departments in hospitals, and 1.2 million UAH will be allocated for creating inclusive rooms in other healthcare facilities in the city.
Additionally, one of the program's points proposes expanding the capabilities of the city service «Social Taxi» for transporting individuals with mobility impairments.