In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the launch of Project Sidewalk, an initiative aimed at improving accessibility in urban areas, particularly for wheelchair users. The project utilizes a dual-audit system that combines initial assessments using Google Street View images with follow-up checks by experienced team members to ensure accuracy in identifying sidewalk conditions and amenities.

Auditors label various features such as curb ramps and crosswalks, as well as issues like cracks and uneven surfaces, rating them on a scale from 1 (very passable) to 5 (not passable at all). This method ensures that the data collected reflects the experiences of those with mobility challenges, providing a comprehensive overview of existing barriers.

The initiative is designed to offer decision-makers a holistic understanding of sidewalk conditions, moving away from the traditional reliance on resident requests for improvements. A visual map created from the data highlights areas in need of investment, particularly around schools and public amenities. Once fully audited, the city can generate detailed maps to prioritize infrastructure improvements based on severity ratings.

Importantly, all data generated through Project Sidewalk is open source, allowing public access to the information for planning and advocacy purposes. This transparency is supported by funding from the National Institute of Health, ensuring that no data is sold for profit.

The meeting also addressed common questions regarding the project's methodology, including the recency of the Google Street View images used for audits, which are primarily from 2021 to 2023. The efficiency of the audit process was emphasized, with one mile taking approximately 45 to 55 minutes to assess, significantly faster than traditional physical audits.

Overall, Project Sidewalk aims to enhance community mobility and accessibility, providing valuable insights for urban planning and infrastructure development in St. Louis.