Accessibility for people with disabilities is a priority for both the City of Saskatoon and the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
More than a quarter of Canadians report having a disability, making accessibility an essential consideration when planning and maintaining public infrastructure. While many people are familiar with efforts to make cities more accessible, fewer may be aware of the broader community benefits these improvements can create. This phenomenon is known as the curb cut effect.
What is the "Curb Cut Effect"?
The curb cut effect describes how accessibility improvements designed for people with disabilities often create unexpected benefits for the wider population. The term comes from the sloped curb cuts installed at intersections to improve accessibility for people using mobility devices such as wheelchairs, scooters and walkers. While these features were introduced to support older adults, whose abilities may be changing, they also make it easier for parents with strollers, travellers with luggage, delivery workers with carts, and many others to move safely and efficiently through public spaces.
As the City of Saskatoon continues to modernize its infrastructure and services, it has experienced its own examples of the curb cut effect. Several accessibility initiatives have improved inclusion while also delivering benefits to residents across the community. One of these initiatives is the installation of Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS). These signals assist pedestrians who are visually and/or hearing impaired by providing information in non-visual formats, including audible and vibrational cues at crossing points. While designed to support people with disabilities, these signals have also proven valuable for children, newcomers learning English, and pedestrians navigating areas with high traffic noise.
The City of Saskatoon is committed to building a more accessible community for everyone. The curb cut effect reminds us that when we remove barriers for people with disabilities, we often create benefits that extend far beyond the original purpose of the improvement. By continuing to invest in accessibility, we are creating a city that is safer, more welcoming, and easier to navigate for all residents.
Visit our website to learn more about the accessibility initiatives that are helping Saskatoon meet the needs of its growing and diverse population.
