Hwang Sook-kyung, Michuhol District Council Member: "The Bollards Blocking Disabled Access, Who Are They Installed For?"

Hwang Sook-kyung, a member of the Michuhol District Council (People Power Party, Proportional), strongly demanded the maintenance of unreasonable street facilities that obstruct the movement of vulnerable pedestrians and thorough management of public facilities to save budget.

During the report of the Welfare and Construction Committee at the 293rd extraordinary session held on the 29th, Council Member Hwang sharply pointed out the flaws in the pedestrian environment by presenting on-site photos taken by herself.

Citing the sidewalk in front of a local restaurant as an example, she criticized, "There is a bollard (a post to prevent vehicle access) right in front of the ramp made for the disabled or strollers, which directly infringes on the mobility rights of vulnerable pedestrians." She further urged careful attention in the work area, saying, "Imagine walking this path when you are visually impaired and cannot see."

In response, a district official stated, "After a comprehensive survey of about 3,300 bollards in the district, we identified around 380 that need maintenance," and added, "We plan to focus on maintenance this year within the budgetary limits."

Suggestions regarding facility management and park development followed. Council Member Hwang praised the street in Dohwa 3-dong and the Seokbawi Circular Park work but emphasized the importance of post-management.

She stated, "Replacing a 15 million won pergola after seven years is due to a lack of regular cleaning and oiling management," and emphasized, "If we oil the newly created 100 million won children's forest deck just once a year, we can significantly extend its lifespan." She also urged that user convenience should be prioritized in new projects like the Subong Water Playground, including the management of food waste during summer and restroom facilities.

Additionally, Council Member Hwang checked the appropriateness of the criteria for designating senior protection zones (Silver Zones) in line with the aging society and confirmed the status of the initiative to open the parking lot attached to the Incheon District Court. The district stated, "We are pushing for the final agreement in line with the change of the court president in February, aiming for opening within the first half of the year."

Finally, regarding the narrow sidewalks where it is difficult to install bus shelters, Council Member Hwang requested, "Instead of spending excessively on installing reverse shelters, please come up with practical and cost-effective ideas such as installing windbreaks for winter," urging for practical administration.