In the city of Brive-la-Gaillarde, Jean-Marie Chatenet pays close attention to the details of public spaces, such as an easel encroaching on a sidewalk or a bin in front of a disabled parking spot. For him, these often discreet arrangements are crucial for daily accessibility.
Initially mandated by the FNATH and now representing users within AutonomiA, a group founded in 2015, Jean-Marie Chatenet collaborates with associations, elected officials, and technical services. This collective work has resulted in a charter for the accessibility of roadways and public spaces, detailing rules for pathways, pedestrian crossings, street furniture, parking, bus stops, and construction sites.
Jean-Marie Chatenet emphasizes the importance of being present on the ground, even if it sometimes means being perceived as 'a nuisance.' He points out that improvements making the city easier for people with disabilities also benefit the elderly and parents with strollers.
Avenue Maillard is cited as a successful example of consultation, featuring improvements like white-capped bollards, guide strips, and LED audible traffic signals. These enhancements, often unnoticed by passersby, demonstrate their effectiveness.
The AutonomiA group now aims to be involved early in new construction projects to identify potential issues and correct plans before work begins, ensuring better attention to detail on site.
Jean-Marie is wholeheartedly committed to this process of observation, reporting, and dialogue, stating: 'I have made a commitment, and I stand by it.'
“"It is necessary to be on the ground."
“"We are not here to prevent them from working, but to preserve sufficient passage for everyone."
“"We must not think only of people with disabilities. There are also the elderly and mothers with strollers."
