KKL-JNF Creates Accessible Path for the visually impaired on International Day of the Blind
Yesterday was the International Day of the Blind when people worldwide commemorated the challenges and achievements of the visually impaired community.
Photo: Bonnie Sheinman
This year, KKL-JNF (Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund) has introduced an exciting initiative to enable visually impaired and blind individuals to explore and navigate an open landscape independently, even without prior knowledge of the area.
Located near the route, KKL-JNF has constructed a parking lot with accessible tables and parking spaces opposite the entrance to the trail, set in the forest on the opposite side of the road. This parking lot is dedicated to the Bukovina Jewish community, honouring the memory of the many community members who perished during the Holocaust.
The circular route spans approximately 500 meters, with a paved path meandering through a combination of forests and orchards. To access the starting point, drivers need to take road 443 from the Ben Shemen interchange towards Modi’in. Around 800 meters after passing the main entrance to Ben Shemen Forest and Mitzvah Modi’in, they should turn right (south) in Zehirat onto a paved road. After about 200 meters, a left turn onto a dirt road accompanied by an avocado orchard leads to an intersection surrounded by parking lots. Continuing straight until the road bends to the left brings visitors to the parking lot for the visually impaired (accessible via Waze: “parking lot for the blind”).
Photo: Bonnie Sheinman
To enhance the experience, KKL-JNF has developed a voice-guided navigation system dedicated to the trail. Visitors can use their smartphones to listen to explanations provided at nine audio stations along the path. To activate the system, users must scan the QR code found on the yellow sticker attached to the metal post at the trail’s entrance. The left code is for Android operating systems, while the right code is for iOS (Apple) operating systems. However, it is possible to walk the path without activating the system.
Walking the path without sight is made straightforward with the presence of a handrail along the left side of the path. The handrail, made of an easy-to-grip metal cylinder, runs the entire length of the paved, 2.5-meter-wide path, with curb stones bordering it throughout. Important stations along the path feature signs made of metal plates, displaying information in both Hebrew and Braille. These signs often include relief illustrations to further aid understanding. Visitors are encouraged to challenge themselves by attempting to interpret the content of each sign with covered or closed eyes, simulating the experience of individuals with visual impairments.
Architect Bela Nodelman, responsible for the centre area at KKL-JNF, extends an invitation to everyone to visit and explore this accessible path, designed with a focus on individuals with visual impairments while being suitable for all. Nodelman suggests the unique experience of walking the path with closed eyes to perceive the world through touch and sound, providing a glimpse into the sensory experience of those with visual disabilities.
