Zoetermeer improves accessibility

The "Physical Accessibility Manifesto" details what the municipality itself is doing to improve accessibility in the city. The municipality also encourages businesses and organizations to make their buildings more accessible. "People with physical disabilities are still far from being able to participate in our city, and that causes physical exclusion," says Marijke van der Meer, Alderman for Accessibility. The Zoetermeer City Council believes it is important that serious work is done to improve accessibility, taking a lead from national regulations.

To draft the manifesto, discussions were held with disabled residents and advice was sought from the Council on Physical Accessibility. Key points of the plan are that streets, sidewalks, bike paths, squares, playgrounds and parks become more accessible; new and remodeled buildings should be easily accessible and visitable by all; and municipal websites and digital services become accessible, with alternatives for people who have difficulty using the Internet.

The municipality asks organizations and business owners to make their locations more accessible, such as stores, restaurants, medical centers and cultural venues. The municipality also works with public transportation to make stops and stations more accessible. Toilets in municipal buildings are open to all. Business owners are asked to do the same. Event organizers are encouraged to make festivals and events accessible, for example with wheelchair-friendly areas and toilets.

With this manifesto, Zoetermeer is taking an important step toward becoming a city where everyone feels welcome and can easily participate.