Members of the Odesa City Council have approved a new initiative that modifies the «Equality» program, now rebranded as «Barrier-Free Odesa».

Among the primary changes: this year, there are plans to open a beach designed for individuals with disabilities at the 11th station of the Big Fountain.

Odesa's Mayor, Hennadiy Trukhanov, stated that initial estimates for capital work are around UAH 21.3 million. On February 5, funds were allocated during the city council session for the development of project documentation to determine more precise costs.

The last renovation of the beach took place in 2019. The aggressive marine environment has necessitated repairs to the ramp, stairs to the beach, and the creation of a new deck. Additionally, the medical station and restroom will be renovated, along with the upgrade of the sewage system.

«Our resort city is currently the only one in Ukraine that offers conditions for marine rehabilitation for people with limited mobility, including veterans who have lost limbs in the war and children with disabilities,» said Hennadiy Trukhanov.

The mayor also reminded that plans are underway to implement an inclusive sports playground at the «Dolphin» beach in time for the new health season. This decision has already been approved by the Executive Committee.

Furthermore, the Odesa mayor added that the municipality plans to establish a robust rehabilitation base in southern Ukraine. As part of the program, over UAH 20 million will be allocated to equip rehabilitation departments in hospitals and UAH 1.2 million for creating inclusive wards in other healthcare facilities in the city.

One of the program's proposals is to expand the capabilities of the city service «Social Taxi» for transporting individuals with mobility impairments.