Enhancement of Accessibility: Installation of Elevator for Disabled Individuals in Green Corner, Güstrow
Green Corner 5's Accessibility Breakthrough
The long-awaited Evangelical Community (EC) building at Green Corner 5 is now entirely accessible thanks to a brand-new hydraulic lift. Previously obstructed by three 20-centimeter steps, people with disabilities or mobility issues can now easily enter the building.
A Long Journey to Accessibility
Pastor Gabriel Möbius, who relocated to Güstrow seven years ago, has long grappled with the question of how to make the building accessible for all. He reached out to the Rostock district's advisory board chairman for people with disabilities, Torsten Schumann, to explore the possibilities.
Schumann suggested a hydraulic lift, which he demonstrated smoothly and efficiently navigating the steps during the lift's inauguration. It only took over 30 seconds for the device to transport a wheelchair user over the steps. "The ride was as smooth as silk, with no hiccups whatsoever," Schumann reported after his test ride.
Hydraulic Lift's Mechanics
The lift was installed below the existing footpath in front of the building. It employs a hydraulically controlled plate, allowing wheelchair users to be transported smoothly up the steps. The lifting platform was designed to blend seamlessly with the cobblestones from the path. The plate can carry a maximum load of 300 kilograms.
To signal the presence of individuals with disabilities, a bell will be installed outside the building. The lift can only be activated by another person who must press the necessary button. "We'll make sure that bell gets installed," Möbius promised.
Funding the Lift
Last year, the EC received a positive funding decision from Leader for the lift installation, but there was a slight delay. The lift was ultimately installed in the ground within a matter of days at the end of March this year. The total cost was €37,000, with €28,000 in Leader funding. The city of Güstrow covered the remaining 20%.
The EC contributed €9,000 out-of-pocket, but received generous support from the MV Volunteer Foundation and the VR Bank. As Möbius stated, "We're elated that no one will be left out of our events anymore."
Engaging the Community
The EC offers a shared meeting space, the "Anchor," open every Tuesday from 2:30 PM to 5 PM. Visitors can relax, enjoy coffee, and connect with others. With the lift's installation, this space is now truly open and accessible to everyone in the community.
With the installation of the hydraulic lift, the Evangelical Community (EC) building at Green Corner 5 is now an inclusive space, transforming it into a place where people of all lifestyles, including those with mobility issues, can feel at home in both the church and the home-and-garden setting. The new lift not only revolutionizes accessibility for the community but also ensures a welcoming environment for everyone, making the weekly meetings at the Anchor a hub for meaningful engagement and connection.
