Creating a barrier-free society together: Lutsk City Territorial Community joins the "Movement without Barriers" project
The project "Movement without Barriers" is being implemented as part of Ukraine's National Strategy for creating barrier-free space and is under the patronage of First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska. Its implementation is overseen by the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, regional military administrations, and local communities.
As part of this project, barrier-free routes are being created in pilot cities. These routes encompass not only physical modifications to the urban environment but also a comprehensive approach to accessibility, addressing informational, social, economic, digital, and educational aspects. This is a priority that should be integrated into all areas of citizens' lives.
Lutsk City Territorial Community is involved in the implementation of this project. Today, there's no need to explain why it's crucial to eliminate obstacles that hinder movement throughout the city. A large number of soldiers return from the front with injuries that require not only medical care but also full integration into society through accessible urban space, transportation, and services. This is a matter of justice – creating conditions for people who have sacrificed their health for the country.
What is a barrier-free route?
A barrier-free route is a comfortable and accessible path that enables people with disabilities, the elderly, parents with strollers, individuals with temporary injuries, and other low-mobility groups to move freely through public spaces, access necessary services, and actively participate in community life.
For example, the first barrier-free route connecting the Medical Rehabilitation Center for Combat Veterans of Lutsk City Territorial Community and the Lutsk Military Garrison Hospital is already being developed. It runs through Voli Avenue and Lesia Ukrainka Street, allowing individuals to walk or use wheelchairs to reach the final destination. Alternatively, public transportation can be used to reach the stop on Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Street, from which one can proceed independently to the final stop.
The facility has undergone several inspections, and efforts are underway to address identified deficiencies. Additionally, negotiations with businesses are in progress to ensure access to shops, cafes, pharmacies, and other facilities along the route.
The 73rd session of Lutsk City Council has allocated funding for 2025 and 2026 for the installation of technical aids, mechanisms, and other specialized devices, including tactile elements, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Separate funds are also designated for compensating self-purchased technical aids or mechanisms.
Furthermore, the city is continually working on the installation of ramps, lifts, and external elevators. According to the Department of Housing and Communal Services, there are currently 11 requests for ramp installations.
In 2020-2024, 12 ramps were installed. Many streets and avenues have lowered curbstones and tactile tiles.
Additionally, Lutsk City Council has established the Barrier-Free Council under the Lutsk City Mayor. The "Community Without Barriers" program and other initiatives are in place to promote social integration, ensure equal rights and opportunities, and enhance accessibility for low-mobility groups.
Department of informational work