ASSESSING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF BUILT INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: A CASE OF THE SOFOLINE INTERCHANGE

Abstract

Currently, disabled people face different kinds of discriminations, posing difficulties and disadvantages of different sizes. Key amongst such challenges is the ability to access built infrastructure like roads. A challenge is posed to planners and design professionals as to how they are able to improve accessibility of the built environment, specifically the transportation infrastructure system to help reduce the suffering of Persons with Disability (PWDs) in Ghana. This research was conducted to examine the accessibility of the Sofoline Interchange to PWDs. It employed open-ended questionnaires and a checklist that sought the views of respondents (the project consultant, the contractor and the client / Ministry of Roads and Highways in Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly) working on the Sofoline Interchange on key issues pertaining to PWDs. Findings showed that facilities needed by the visually impaired such as audio communications, handrails, tactile markings and curbs have not been incorporated into the design of the Sofoline Interchange, making it unfriendly to the visually impaired. The findings from this study should enable all stakeholders concerned to come together to find ways to address this issue, especially when it comes to the construction of such facilities to enable the PWDs to access them freely.