Published on Monday, 8 May 2023 at 7:36:16 PM
The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder welcomes a wheelchair pilot team to the city this week, who will undertake mobility mapping.
The wheelchair pilot team from Australian-owned and operated Briometrix will analyse and review the user experience for anyone using wheels on footpaths – including wheelchairs, prams, strollers, and other mobility aids.
In this first phase of the project, key sections of the city have been selected, in consultation with the Seniors Working Group and community service providers, that include the Kalgoorlie CBD and the CY O’Connor Precinct.
Two key outcomes of the project include the development of an “effort map” which will assist residents and visitors with barriers to accessibility to plan their trips around the city. It will also identify hazards, repairs, and maintenance requirements that will assist the City’s Engineering department when planning future civil works.
Mayor John Bowler said that this project would assist in improving the connectivity and walkability of the city for all residents.
“We are excited to have this experienced team from Briometrix apply their innovative technology to help us improve accessibility around the city.”
“The findings will help us determine the level of effort that people with limited mobility and wheelchair users need to move around these areas and identify areas for improvement.”
“The team brings lived experience with these issues and will use a specialised wheelchair to analyse footpaths, pathways, ramps, crossings, and shopfronts which we know are areas of great importance to our residents."
“Mobility mapping is a way to gain a better understanding of accessibility in the city as identified in the City’s Access and Inclusion Plan and Age Friendly Strategy.”
Natalie Verdon, CEO of Briometrix is excited to be able to provide this service to the City.
“Our data and maps provide insights that are not otherwise visible to planning professionals.”
“No matter what age, ability or mobility, everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy everything a city has to offer,” she said.
Based on the outcomes of this initial phase, the City will plan further mapping requirements for other areas of the city including Boulder.
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