Poznan awarded 3rd prize in the Access City Award

On the occasion of the European Day for People with Disabilities, the European Commission announced the winners of the competition for the most disabled-friendly city. Poznan was awarded third place, while Swedish Göteborg was first and the French City of Grenoble - second . The Access City Award 2014 was received in Brussels by the Mayor of Poznan, Ryszard Grobelny.

The award ceremony ended the fourth edition of the competition, which promotes innovative solutions and actions of cities designed to remove barriers for people with disabilities and seniors. The organisers of the Access City Award - the European Commission and the European Disability Forum want to encourage cities to share their experiences in facilitating the functioning of persons with reduced mobility in the urban environment.

The winner of the competition was Gothenburg, recognized for the comprehensive measures for the integration of disabled people in urban community. Both Poznan and Grenoble gained recognition for progress they have made in the access of transportation, education, housing, culture, sports, tourism and employment. The capital of Wielkopolska was awarded for low-floor buses, a web portal with applications in sign language and adjustment of all the city office buildings for the needs of people with disabilities.

The ceremony was attended by the European Commission Vice-President Viviane Reding, as well as high-level delegations from the seven finalist cities, experts and representatives of organisations for people with disabilities. This year's jury was chaired by Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson, the sixteenfold medalist of the Paralympic Games, now member of the British House of Lords.

Author: Wielkopolska region Brussels Office

Photo: European Commission