Measuring change, one centimeter at a time

In real life, accessibility challenges are not limited to the elderly or people with disabilities. Parents with strollers, travelers with luggage, workers pushing carts, or a person nursing a broken leg — almost everyone will at some point rely on barrier-free design.

"In barrier-free construction, awareness is key. Many institutions simply haven't realized the problems exist. Some people with disabilities feel they just have to endure it," Zhang says.

"By conducting assessments and writing articles, I hope to help more people understand that barrier-free facilities are for everyone. Substandard facilities not only affect usability — they can also pose safety risks," he says.

Zhang's assessments have contributed to a series of changes. The administration of one public park near the Old Summer Palace that he reviewed, where benches once encroached upon walkways, creating hazards, later invited him back after it had completed renovations. The benches had been moved back by 45 centimeters, freeing up space along the path. He measured it again when he returned, tape in hand, and found the distance met his feedback exactly.

The change may seem minor, but wheelchair users can now pause beside the benches, parents can park their strollers without blocking the path, and people can stretch their legs without tripping passersby. A small retreat of just 45 centimeters has reshaped the path's flow.

The park has also made larger adjustments. Its ramps now comply with standard handrail heights, its restrooms have been fitted with properly positioned grab bars and multifunctional counters, and an accessible route map has been added at the entrance, guiding visitors through barrier-free pathways across the park.

"We have tried to correct every issue we could identify," says Li Jingcheng, one of the park's managers, noting that Zhang's feedback was both practical and professional. "His suggestions have been valuable, not only for this renovation but also for the design of future parks."

Zhang has not been alone in his campaign, with many posting their own assessments online to improve accessibility nationwide.

The 2023 legislation also allows procuratorial authorities to file public interest lawsuits to enforce accessibility standards, thereby strengthening legal oversight. Organizations representing people with disabilities have become more closely involved in such litigation, assisting with case referrals, professional assessments and follow-up evaluations.

In 2025, the China Disabled Persons' Federation, the Supreme People's Procuratorate and the Ministry of Civil Affairs released a series of typical cases to raise public awareness of the importance of accessibility.

In addition to posting videos online, Zhang also files reports to local procuratorates on locations without proper barrier-free facilities.

Loading his wheelchair into the back of his car, Zhang continues to make routine journeys across Beijing, stopping at new shopping malls or renovated public spaces to assess their accessibility.