Accessibility and physical activity (mobility) are core components of sustainability. There is a need to go beyond the guidelines of accessibility and sustainability, utilize innovation and take sustainability to the next level. Accessibility can be seen as a ribbon of movement that draws out patterns of play, social activity and living, throughout an urban environment. Accessibility and physical activity are integral to social and health sustainability.
In its initial conception, Whistler Village was largely designed on two levels: the main Village Stroll at ground level and the walkways and pathways built up several feet to protect against potential flooding. Born from this difference in ground level changes, came the necessity for ramps throughout the Village. The first issue is that this ramping system is incomplete, which manifests as many areas where a ramp takes one up to another level without a return ramp at the other end. Aside from this failure, the ramping system in its very nature, is uninviting and creates a sense of disconnect.
The challenge we are now faced with through the lens of accessibility is creating an environment that is integrative and inviting to all.