Kalynn Porter

A browser-based navigation system that uses AR and physical pathways to assist mobility-impaired users in experiencing the Downtown Santa Monica Farmer’s Market safely.

The Downtown Santa Monica Farmers is a beautiful space to explore. People value organic produce and supporting local businesses. However, the market is riddled with hazards for users of mobility devices.

Santa Monica has a high concentration of disabled citizens, 4% of its population identify themselves as disabled. Despite this fact, the Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market is not set up with their needs in mind. From our interviews, we learned that a wheelchair user's route is often precarious and even a the smallest amount of jostling can cause a wheelchair user to be pushed into a dangerous pathway, especially when the mobility device is electric.

Routed combines the farmers market experience with accessible wayfinding through a browser-based navigation system that uses AR and physical pathways to assist mobility-impaired users in experiencing the Downtown Santa Monica Farmer’s Market safely. Routed benefits both farmers and visitors by augmenting an in-person experience, using both city data and user-inputted data to keep information accurate and relevant. Designed with accessibility as a priority, Routed is a resource to create a more inclusive experience for all visitors.