09/27/2023

Barrier-Free Neighborhoods

This session examines barriers to the activities of everyday life in city neighborhoods for older residents and people with disabilities. The work is based on the experiences of Cleveland residents who participated in the Barrier-free Cleveland initiative through interviews, focus groups, a community survey, and neighborhood activities.

We will discuss approaches to accessible neighborhood design with a focus on strategies that urban designers, planners, and community development corporations can use to make streets and public spaces more accessible. We'll also discuss government actions and policies to make neighborhoods safer and more accessible for all residents at every stage of their lives. Lastly, will discuss actions that everyone can take to make life easier for our neighbors living with disabilities.

The session explores three questions: What does a barrier-free city look like and how does it function? How do we build equity into neighborhoods and address barriers present in the public realm? What kinds of investments will produce the greatest benefits for the most people, and especially for people most in need of support?

Speakers

Terry Schwarz, FAICP