DG East Project advances inclusive urban development in Zaporizhzhia

The team from the USAID’s Democratic Governance East (DG East) project visited the Zaporizhzhia region and its administrative center, the city of Zaporizhzhia, as part of a monitoring mission.

The delegation included Michael Stievater, the Chief of Party for DG East, Oleksandr Riabyi, Regional Director of the South East Portfolio, and Yaroslav Hrybalskyi, an expert on inclusive design.

The visit agenda not only involved monitoring previously provided assistance but also discussing future projects for the inclusive development of the city. As the first step towards creating a more friendly urban environment in Zaporizhzhia, DG East intends to support the construction of several inclusive public spaces for reсreation and sports activities. The partners discussed these plans with officials from the City Council and managers of the City Development Institute of Zaporizhzhia.

In the coming days, Yaroslav Hrybalskyi, an expert on inclusive design, will help assess proposed locations and identify the best options for such public spaces – those most accessible, safe, and attractive to citizens of different ages and social groups. Afterwards, the expert will work closely with the city council to draft a strategy for the development of inclusive facilities and provide his recommendations on the subject.

The Democratic Governance East (DG East) project is one of the major international partners promoting inclusive urban development in the southern and eastern regions of Ukraine. Empowered by USAID’s support, collaborative work between experts and local authorities helps improve the quality of life for all citizens by providing equal access to public spaces, recreation, socialization, and active living.