Our work focuses on exploring new ways to improve how cities collect and use data on pedestrian infrastructure accessibility. We partner with diverse stakeholders from around the world in the development of open-source sidewalk data collection tools and education materials, with the goal of using this data to support equitable urban planning, pedestrian advocacy, and expanding access for people with disabilities.
Mapping sidewalk accessibility around the world
Project Sidewalk is a free, online crowdsourcing tool that allows users to label sidewalk infrastructure and identify accessibility barriers by virtually moving through city streets. Crowdsourcing is an inclusive approach to gathering information that is needed to support greater accessibility advocacy and bolster local planning efforts! Project Sidewalk was developed by the University of Washington Makeability Lab.
This work is part of a National Science Foundation Smart and Connection Communities grant (award #2125087).
Our team
Our team is comprised of partners from the University of Chicago Illinois, University of Washington, and Easterseals.
Jon Froehlich
Associate Professor
Allen School of Computer Science
University of Washington
Yochai Eisenberg
Assistant Professor College of Disability and Human Development
University of Illinois-Chicago
Delphine Labbé
Assistant Professor College of Disability and Human Development
University of Illinois-Chicago
Judy Shanley
National Director
Mobility, Transportation, and Youth Transition
Easterseals
Joy Hammel
Professor
Wade Meyer
Endowed Chair
College of Disability and Human Development
University of Illinois-Chicago
Advisory Board
We are supported by an advisory board composed of regional partners. Advisory board members guide project implementation and assist in connecting our team with potential partners and opportunities.
International Partners
Project Sidewalk operates all around the world, collaborating with partners from a variety of different backgrounds and institutions.
