City Resolution #12

Image by cris renma from Pixabay

We have arrived at #12 of Brent Toderian's City Resolutions and it encourages us to "Open your eyes to whether your city is truly accessible for everyone–every curb cut or lack thereof–for the disabled, people of all ages, and for every parent with a stroller. Find ways to travel a mile in their shoes or chairs, and listen to them. Then amplify their voices in calling for improvements."

I was thinking about this just last week as a new curb cut had been recently created along a path I cycle regularly. I was thrilled to see this newest development as it made my cycling easier in that area. I'm sure many motorists and pedestrians passing by that spot may not even notice this small change, even though it's very helpful to cyclists like me.

​This issue has also been top of mind with Kitchener Council recently voting on moving ahead with a snow clearing pilot this winter. Issues of mobility, accessibility, and equity were raised by all of the delegations speaking in favour of the pilot project.

I particularly like Brent's statement to amplify the voices calling for accessibility improvements. Much like that curb cut I mentioned or the snow clearing pilot, it's easy to overlook simple changes that could improve the lives of others, even though they may not be improvements we (currently) benefit from. It's important for us to not only listen to those advocating for accessibility infrastructure, but to also support and amplify those messages. #365ofgoodWR

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