An Analysis of Placemaking and Wayfinding Initiatives on the Halifax and Dartmouth Harbourwalk for Wheelchair Users

Abstract

Considerations towards equitable practices in public spaces should be made to promote inclusivity and user-friendliness and reduce barriers. Halifax, Nova Scotia, has one of the highest rates of disabilities in Canada and is continuously observing growth, with urban infrastructures being built. However, there should be considerations towards improving currently existing infrastructure and whether it meets equitable considerations towards individuals with disabilities. As a result, Halifax and Dartmouth's placemaking and wayfinding infrastructures were analyzed on wheelchair accessibility, observing whether there were correlations between quality and type of infrastructure and recommendations in inclusive practices. From a placemaking perspective, the newly implemented Queen's Marque was found to be the least accessible and inclusive infrastructure due to its intended purposes and lack of universal design considerations. Many common problems were found in wayfinding infrastructure, especially within informational signage. Common problems found included characteristics such as signage angles and lack of consideration towards height and perspective. In addition, the Dartmouth Harbourwalk has overseen most vandalism on wayfinding infrastructure. It is recommended that best practices within different cities be observed, and suggestions from organizations should be made to consider the best ways towards inclusivity and equitable practices. Practices such as community engagement should be done in the future to take into consideration feedback from people who use the space frequently when determining approaches to improving the space.