Building inclusive cities: how the SMALL project is transforming accessibility in Brest

Brest Metropolitan City has partnered with StreetCo to improve accessibility for people with reduced mobility by integrating collaborative mapping tools into its transport ecosystem. 

StreetCo, a GPS-based app, allows users to report obstacles such as construction works, parked vehicles or narrow pavements. These reports are then shared via the Bibus public transport app, helping people plan safer and more accessible routes. The project aligns with Brest Metropolitan City’s wider commitment to accessibility and digital inclusion, supported by European projects like SMALL and FOLLOW under the EIT Urban Mobility programme.

Community engagement remains a challenge. While Brest initially worked with local associations supporting people with reduced mobility, uptake has been slower than expected due to limited resources and awareness. StreetCo has tried to encourage participation by letting individuals or groups compete to report the most obstacles, but sustaining engagement remains difficult. Behavioural change plays a significant role as many people do not naturally consider what might constitute an obstacle unless they experience mobility restrictions themselves.

Looking ahead, Brest Metropolitan City plans to boost communication efforts, recruit more participants, and expand the Streeter Pro programme, which pays individuals to submit reports regularly. One student alone has already contributed around 4,000 reports, demonstrating the impact of consistent engagement. The aim is to raise awareness, recruit more participants and ultimately create a more inclusive urban environment where unexpected mobility challenges are minimised.

Author: Carla Giaume

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.