City Able - a startup developed by wheelchair users to make cities more accessible

City Able is a Lisbon-based startup dedicated to making cities, companies, and services more accessible. With a particular focus on public transport, the startup works with both public and private entities, including transport companies, city councils and businesses, to improve their accessibility. Although their primary focus is on public transport, they extend their services to other areas, particularly urban planning.

The team develops a range of services including detailed data and spatial analyses, development of accessibility data models, and innovative training sessions. These sessions are designed to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance accessibility in various contexts (public transport, urban planning, accessibility regulation and compliance, inclusive design, assistive technologies...).

A prominent offering is their "Accessibility Data Model", a methodology based on the real-life experiences of people with disabilities using public transport infrastructure. This methodology involves practical on-site tests where users evaluate the infrastructure and assign a score based on their autonomous use. This approach not only identifies areas for improvement but also highlights the strengths of the infrastructure in terms of accessibility.

What sets City Able apart is their commitment to the principles of the Independent Living Movement, that advocates for the human rights of people with disabilities, their self-determination, equal opportunities, and independence, including the ability to participate fully in all aspects of social and economic life. They ensure that people with disabilities are actively involved in their methodologies, not just as passive subjects, but as contributors whose time and knowledge are valued and paid for. This commitment to inclusivity and respect for the expertise of people with disabilities is a cornerstone of their work.

For more information -
City Able website: http://www.cityable.pt/
Link to their methodology: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/dfa0c844-3b5f-1...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o07wc9rw1xE