Parapan Games test Toronto's accessibility
A new app launches to help visitors and para-athletes alike navigate a city that’s better than some, but still presents lots of barriers.

thestar.com
Aug. 11, 2015
By Michael Robinson

Ontario has touted Toronto 2015’s Parapan Am Games as the most accessible games ever, but what do our visiting athletes think?

The Star asked para-athletes how the city fares when compared with the barriers they face back home.

From widened doorways to the tiny bumps ahead of a blended curb, they credited building designs and social attitudes as two factors that helped them overcome barriers throughout the wider Toronto community.

In light of the Games, both residents and those visiting have a new tool at their disposal to report barriers they find in public spaces.

The web-based app, called Access Now, relies on crowdsourcing to pinpoint the accessibility status of any hotel, restaurant or attraction on an interactive map.

The tool’s creator, Ryerson University master’s student Maayan Ziv, said the project was fueled by the frustration she experienced when attempting to dine out with friends.

“I would make plans thinking I could get in and then I’d arrive and there would be a step at the entrance,” the 25-year-old said. “I want to be able to go where I want to go and do that now.”

This is one the reasons she wanted to ensure the web application was ready in time for the Parapan Am games.

“A lot of people are coming to Toronto, and they will be looking for accessible places to eat, things to do, or just got out,” she said.

Users can submit their own reviews or rate venues according to four colour-coded categories.

Since it launched last week, more than 600 restaurants, cafes and bars have already been pinned on the map.

“The businesses are missing out, and they are losing a huge customer base,” she said.

Ziv, who has spent the majority of her life in Toronto, identified the city’s Entertainment District as one area that needs improvement.

“These are huge tourist destinations and there isn’t much access,” she said, adding that she hopes the tool will eventually help to break down physical barriers.

“We want to look at those places and see how we can turn them into better access for everyone, so we can all enjoy Toronto.”

Those interested in learning more can access the map at accessnow.ca.