The summer warmth has arrived, prompting discussions about vacation and accessible beaches for people with disabilities for the 2025 season. A notable initiative is “SpiaggiaLiberiTutti,” a beach accessibility project set to be inaugurated in Rimini, which will open a barrier-free beach starting June 16th.
The design of the beach is guided by the principles of “Design for All,” aiming to provide services that are inclusive of all users, including individuals with various types of disabilities and across different age groups. Qualified assistance and recreational activities will also be available for everyone.
The project will be managed by the social cooperative “Amici di Gigi,” selected following a public inquiry by the Municipal Administration. This cooperative is leading a group that includes the Nautical Club of Rimini, RiminiUp Sports Cooperative, Service Web Social Cooperative, Inopera Social Enterprise, Rimini South Lifeguards Cooperative, and The Beach Srl.
As for the beach layout, it will feature well-organized spaces marked by different colors corresponding to various functions. Augmentative and Alternative Communication pictograms will be employed for clarity.
From June 16, 2025, the beach will boast 16 shaded “suites” designed for individuals with severe disabilities, complete with specialized furnishings. There will also be additional gazebos for activities and meals, as well as quiet areas to facilitate a smooth transition to the beach experience.
Facilities will include three outdoor showers and two blocks of indoor changing rooms with showers. All services will be situated on elevated platforms, supported by two walkways connecting the sidewalk to the water with a flat path. Additional roll-out walkways will be provided on the beach daily to ensure easy access to the water.
For users with mobility disabilities, there will be two beach wheelchairs designed for sand navigation, a job chair for water access, an immersion wheelchair, and an electric lift for transportation.
The operators from “Amici di Gigi” will ensure qualified assistance and create a supportive environment for individuals with disabilities, while also promoting inclusive recreational and sports activities. The aim is to transform the facilities into spaces of life, enjoyment, and relaxation for all users.
The project received a significant investment of 430,000 euros from the Municipality of Rimini, with an additional contribution of 150,000 euros from the Emilia-Romagna Region as part of the institutional program ‘In Emilia-Romagna c’è una vacanza per me.’ The city’s investment for operational services amounts to 90,000 euros.
This initiative represents a promising step towards greater inclusivity on the coast and sets a standard for similar projects in the future, showcasing the importance of accessible recreation for everyone.