San Jose, CA launches AI initiative to increase language access
San José has launched an AI initiative to improve language access for non-English speakers during city council meetings. The initiative uses the Wordly AI platform to provide real-time translation and captioning in over 50 languages, allowing more residents to participate in local governance. This move underscores San José's commitment to innovation and inclusivity by ensuring effective communication with its diverse population.
San Jose, CA
United States
Leicester City Council, GB makes bus services more accessible for passengers with sight loss
Leicester City Council and Vista are installing text-to-talk real-time information totems at 21 bus stops to help make bus services more accessible for passengers with sight loss. The new Vix Technology totem displays use long-life batteries, meaning they can be installed anywhere and do not rely on mains or solar power. The displays also provide real-time passenger information for everyone. Funding is made available through the UK Department for Transport's Tackling Loneliness Fund.
Leicester City Council, GB
United Kingdom
Philadelphia, PA collaborates with SEPTA on AI-powered parking enforcement initiative
Local officials identified blocked bus lanes as obstacles to accessibility for seniors and residents with disabilities. SEPTA tested Hayden AI's enforcement platform on two bus routes over a 70-day period. The pilot's success led city council members to approve an expanded enforcement zone including all streets served by trolleys. Cameras mounted to SEPTA transit vehicles capture street footage for evaluation by the platform, thus supporting improved enforcement efforts.
Philadelphia, PA
United States
Ann Arbor, MI partners with Throne on Public Restroom Pilot Program for downtown visitors
A one-year pilot running from June 2024 to June 2025 will place 10 Thrones in areas with high foot traffic. Thrones are available around the clock with entry by scanning a QR code, texting Throne to a dedicated number, or pressing a button on the Throne app. Each restroom can be used without touching surfaces thanks to built-in sensors. Additional features include ADA-compliant portable ramps for accessibility and solar panels for zero-emission power.
Ann Arbor, MI
United States
Rio de Janeiro, RJ creates public spaces for digital training with its Nave Satélite initiative
Nave Satélites - or Satellite Ships - convert former CIEP learning centers into accessible spaces for digital training. Local workers prepare for office employment with free courses like Basic Excel and IT certification options. Residents of all ages find computer stations for online tasks and tablets for Internet browsing. City officials anticipate each Nave Satélite will serve up to 450 people per month with three Zona Oeste locations planned by the end of 2023.
Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Brazil
Mid Ulster District Council, GB advances accessibility goals with a Cubbie sensory regulation module
A 2021 council motion called for accessible spaces for neurodivergent residents of all ages. Council officials installed a Cubbie unit at the Cookstown Leisure Centre as part of this effort. The Cubbie offers personalized sessions for those experiencing sensory overload. Users create and access their profiles in the Cubbie Cloud, thus supporting access to modules in other settings. Customized experiences - or Sprints - in the wheelchair-accessible module last up to 15 minutes.
Mid Ulster District Council, GB
United Kingdom
Philadelphia, PA Disability Representation Map supports data-driven infrastructure improvements
The Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities turned American Community Survey data into an interactive map. Color-coded and monochromatic overlays show the percentages of residents with disabilities by census tract for users with differing levels of color vision. Each tract's narrative explains the types of disabilities and resident demographics in greater detail. The map is keyboard accessible and uses textured features for those with low vision.
Philadelphia, PA
United States
Gedling Borough Council, GB supports independent living for seniors with Bath Out initiative
The program sought 15 senior residents in Netherfield interested in converting bathrooms into wet rooms. Project partner Longhurst Group worked with each participant on design options including walk-in showers, grab bars, and accessible sinks. Gedling Borough Council covered Bath Out's £105,000 cost with money received from the Better Care Fund. Each conversion will save an estimated £73,000 by reducing hospital and supported housing stays caused by falls.
Gedling Borough Council, GB
United Kingdom
Chandler, AZ conducts Language Assistance Technology Assessment for more accessible services
Touch-screen translation devices are rotating through 15 public buildings during the six-month pilot. The devices support Braille keyboards and audio translation in 120 languages during conversations with staff. Chandler is also testing a mobile broadcast feature whereby a user can translate a presentation by a single speaker through their smartphone. User and staff surveys evaluate how well these technologies assist the city's diverse population in accessing city events and services.
Chandler, AZ
United States
Tucson, AZ seeks innovative accessory dwelling unit ideas with its Casita Model Plan Competition
The city's Planning and Development Services Department (PDSD) requests design entries for ADUs referred to as casitas. Participants submit project descriptions, floor plans, and 3D views for casitas in four categories - Universal Design, Low-Cost, Family-Friendly, and Green. A public survey and evaluations by PDSD will determine 10 winning entries with awards of $1,000 each. Tucson will also waive building review fees for winning designers who want to turn their designs into reality.
Tucson, AZ
United States
San Antonio, TX envisions accessible and affordable housing options with ADU Design Competition
The competition invites Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) designs from residents of all ages. A design booklet provides prompts like "What type of outdoor space would your ADU have?" and "What green features would be included in your ADU?" Participants include floor plan drawings and narratives about ADU features with their applications. Winners in six categories such as Most Innovative Design and Most Accessible Design win up to $500 funded by an AAP Community Challenge Grant.
San Antonio, TX
United States
Regina, SK Inclusion Support Service makes recreation programs more accessible to all residents
The free service creates individualized recreation plans for residents with accessibility concerns. Support staff navigates participants through registration and identifies transportation options to recreation venues. Leisure Companions offer emotional support and assist recreation leaders with adjusting activities to user needs. Regina pursued this service as part of an Adapted Recreation Plan calling for a systemic approach to accessible resources.
Regina, SK
Canada