Launched in September, Pedesting is a made-in-Calgary app that helps pedestrians find the easiest, safest and most accessible routes across the city.
"Creating a city that is accessible for everyone requires a collaborative effort between government and business. Pedesting is providing a singular touch point to help individuals navigate through Calgary with dignity and simplicity,” says Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I encourage all Calgarians to check out the app - as a participating business or simply to navigate our city!"
On Thursday, Pedesting announced four new downtown locations have joined the app.
Floor plans for the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, Stephen Avenue Place, Life Plaza and Bow Valley College will be available on the app in November – meaning Pedesting users can find accessible entrances, ramps, elevators, and escalators for these downtown spaces.
“We’re thrilled these organizations are taking the next steps to be more accessible for Calgarians and visitors alike,” says Nabeel Ramji, CEO of Pedesting. “As a wheelchair user myself, navigating downtown spaces is often a challenge. The more organizations who join Pedesting, the easier it will be for all Calgarians to get around.”
There are more than 100,000 Calgarians who have a physical disability, according to Statistics Canada. Pedesting is on a mission to ensure that all Calgarians can enjoy spaces and navigate them with ease, whether they’re pushing a stroller, using a wheelchair or walking on an icy day.
Ramji was joined by Mayor Gondek, business and community leaders on Thursday to speak about accessibility in Calgary.
Additional quotes:
“This bold, innovative app will open doors to a more seamless journey for our college community. We are proud to be the first post-secondary institution to collaborate with Pedesting, removing barriers and creating a more accessible and welcoming campus.”
-Dr. Misheck Mwaba, President and CEO of Bow Valley College
“As a convention centre that welcomes delegates and guests from around the world, it is imperative that we provide a safe, inclusive and accessible space. Our partnership with Pedesting ensures our delegates of all abilities have a positive and accessible experience by preparing them with key information about our space before arriving.”
-Kurby Court, President & CEO of the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre
“Accessibility is something that most of us take for granted. We are proud to support Pedesting and the important work they are doing to ensure that downtown, the heart of our city, is welcoming to all!”
-Mark Garner, Executive Director of the Calgary Downtown Association
About Pedesting: Pedesting is an app that helps pedestrians find the easiest, safest and most accessible indoor and outdoor routes across the city. In the same way Google Maps makes the experience of getting somewhere in a vehicle easy, Pedesting makes it easier for pedestrians to get around.
Pedesting launched in September 2023 and is available for download on Google Play and the Apple Store. During the month of November, seven Pedesting Zones will be available on the app. They are: the Downtown Central Library, Arts Commons, Brookfield Place, Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, Stephen Avenue Place, Life Plaza and Bow Valley College. The more businesses and organizations that join Pedesting, the more accessible Calgary will be whether you’re pushing a stroller, using a wheelchair or walking on an icy day.
