ATHENS, Greece — Paul DePace looked apprehensive as he tried to maneuver his wheelchair across the busy street. Motorcycles were parked along the sidewalk and blocked his path.
An International Paralympic Committee official, DePace was on an accessibility test of central Athens three days into the Paralympics. He was less than upbeat.
Athens "still has a ways to go to be what I would call a good accessible city," the 59-year-old American said after needing 90 minutes to cover less than a half mile.
With narrow sidewalks often used as parking spots and almost no wheelchair access ramps, the city that recently hosted the Summer Games has been considered an unfriendly place for the disabled.
Criticism prompted the government to budget about $255 million to build ramps, repair sidewalks and improve access. But critics say it was too little, too late.
Parliament has also mandated new building codes and provisions for the handicapped, but officials say the city is still generally inaccessible for disabled people.
During his tour, DePace found no ramp at the changing of the guards at the parliament building, so DePace could not get a closer look at the Athenian tradition. He also had to go through the parking lot entrance because there was no curb cut at the door. He said the ramps were steep, adding "It facilitates the person to get in the building, but you need assistance, but assistance takes away independence."
Motorcycles illegally parked along the sidewalks made crossing streets difficult. "What I would try to do in this case is to try to find a driveway," he said.
DePace suggested authorities inform Athenians about the use of curbs that are specifically cut for wheelchairs or baby carriages.
The central Syndagma metro station received a positive review. It had an elevator and clearly marked signs for people with disabilities.
Making Athens accessible, though, will take time and creativity because "you don't want to destroy the history of this town," DePace said.
Overall, DePace is enjoying his stay.
"The friendliness, the hospitality and the food have really made me feel welcome," he said, "even though some of the places are not easy to get into."