How to... Improve Accessible Parking

It's not just about painting lines on the ground.

Welcome to the special edition for paid subscribers!

Paid subscribers receive an exclusive email every two weeks with ideas and tips on making the world more accessible, in addition to the main newsletter.

Today's newsletter is about accessible parking.

For many disabled and older people, the ability to park close to their destination and unload their wheelchairs can make a significant difference in their daily lives. Accessible parking spaces reserved for those who need them are essential to improving accessibility. However, far too often, these designated spaces are misused, inadequately designed, or simply not available. Addressing the barriers and challenges around accessible parking is important to creating a more inclusive environment.

Image by Jakub Pabis / Pexels

One of the primary issues is a lack of available, accessible parking spaces. The number of designated spaces needs to meet the actual demand from those who require them, but often, that's not the case. The lack of accessible parking spaces can force disabled people to park much further away or simply to leave again, making it difficult or even impossible for them to reach their intended location.