Sightwalks: Unacem’s Visionary Initiative to Transform Lima’s Sidewalks
In a groundbreaking initiative, Circus Grey Peru, Cemento Sol, and the Miraflores District Municipality have come together to redefine urban accessibility for visually impaired individuals in Lima. The collaborative effort, known as “Sightwalks,” involves the installation of a tactile tile system along the sidewalks, empowering the visually impaired with newfound autonomy in navigation. This innovative approach not only addresses a prevalent challenge but also sets a precedent for inclusive urban development.
Addressing Visual Impairment: A Prevailing Challenge
In Peru, visual impairment stands as the most prevalent physical disability. Unfortunately, the lack of inclusive urban planning exacerbates the struggle for those affected, compelling them to rely on constant assistance to locate basic services and navigate daily life. The Sightwalks project emerges as a beacon of change, aiming to enhance mobility and independence for visually impaired individuals in one of Lima’s vital districts, Miraflores.
The Tactile Tile System: A Touch of Autonomy
The centerpiece of Sightwalks is a system of tactile tiles strategically placed along the sidewalks of Miraflores. Crafted in collaboration with representatives from organizations dedicated to the visually impaired, these tiles serve as a universal urban signage system. Visually impaired individuals can identify essential services and establishments by touching the tiles and counting the lines with their canes. This simple yet effective method marks a significant step towards permanent improvement in mobility, fostering a more inclusive city.
Miraflores Mayor’s Vision for Inclusion
Carlos Canales, the mayor of Miraflores, expressed his appreciation for the initiative, stating, “With this initiative, we continue the work started 20 years ago to make Miraflores more inclusive. We aim to remain the most inclusive district in Peru, based on the support and policies of our administration to include people with disabilities and provide solutions.”
Co-Creation for Universal Impact
To ensure the effectiveness and universality of the system, the project involved a meticulous co-creation process. Collaborating with leading associations for the visually impaired, industrial designers, and engineers, the initiative aimed to standardize and expand universal urban signage for the visually impaired worldwide. The two-year-long process included prototyping, testing, and continuous iteration to perfect the system.
Training for Universal Access
In 2023, training sessions were conducted to facilitate universal access to the autonomy the project aims to provide. Participants from major organizations for visually impaired individuals in Peru underwent training to recognize and use the new signaling system. The comprehensive sessions included talks, practical tests, and familiarization with tactile tiles, braille brochures, and instructional audio.
A Testimony of Touch: The Value of Tactile Lines
Rubén Goicochea, president of the National Union of the Blind in Peru, emphasized the significance of the initiative: “I feel proud and happy to have more accessible streets, and hopefully, this project can continue to be implemented elsewhere to enhance inclusion. This allows us to highlight the importance and value of tactile lines. For us, these tiles are not just any lines; they have a significance that allows us to replace sight with touch.”
Expanding Impact: Goals and Vision
Benefiting over 500,000 visually impaired individuals, Sightwalks has already covered over 75,000 square meters in the streets of Miraflores. The ambitious goal is to expand to different districts in Lima and potentially influence urban developments worldwide. The design and patent for implementation are open and free to use, emphasizing the project’s commitment to universal impact and inclusivity.
Sightwalks: A Film Medium Campaign by Unacem
Published in Peru in December 2023, the Sightwalks campaign, created for the brand Unacem by Circus Grey Peru, is presented through the Film medium. This campaign transcends traditional advertising; it is a testament to a transformative initiative that leverages creativity, innovation, and design to contribute significantly to societal well-being. The campaign’s impact goes beyond promotion—it is a catalyst for positive change, making urban spaces more accessible and inclusive for all.
