Conclusion

In this project we found that accessibility of parks in the City of Vancouver is largely limited by physical landscape. Berlin Parks, on the other hand were not designed for wheelchair accessibility, but the overall topography of the area allows for good accessibility. We have demonstrated feasibility of digital sources for wheelchair accessibility audits by collecting both quantitative information about park accessibility and qualitative observations.
While interpreting results of this project, it is important to locate them within social and political context of each city. While Vancouver’s Greenest City 2020 Action Plan and Berlin’s Urban Development Concept 2030 both have green spaces as a priority in their urban planning agenda, accessibility for all types of mobilities must be examined. A closer look at what accessibility means should also incorporate perspectives of wheelchair users.