Odesa summarizes half-year results in implementing a barrier-free urban environment

The final meeting of the Barrier-Free Council was held in Odesa with the participation of veterans, civil society activists, experts, ambassadors of the Movement Without Barriers project, and representatives of the city authorities.

This was reported by the Odesa City Council.

During the event, key achievements for the first half of 2025 were presented. These include the creation of the first barrier-free route, improved access to city beaches, and the development of adaptive sports, including kayaking.

The participants also approved the Council's work plan for the second half of the year. According to Oleksiy Morozov, Deputy Chairman of the Council, all the points of the plan have clear deadlines and executors, so their implementation is realistic. Summarizing, the participants noted the gradual but steady transformation of Odesa into a city of equal opportunities. An example is the new inclusive beach "Beach 11", which is used daily by more than 100 people with different needs.

The beach, which received a certificate confirming compliance with international standards of quality, safety and environmental sustainability, was renovated and opened on July 1. The inclusive beach was equipped with special ramps, modern toilets and showers to meet the needs of people with disabilities. There is also a medical center and a shelter. In total, in July, the regional military administration allowed three more beaches in Odesa to operate. According to Oleg Kiper, these are Red Line, Portofino and Kurortny. Kiper reminded that 32 safe swimming areas are currently open in Odesa region (30 in Odesa and one beach each in Chornomorsk and Prymorske). The list is updated based on the results of inspections.

Катерина Глушко