We walk on sidewalks and cross streets every day on our way to school or work. When exploring new places, we tend to look only straight ahead or around us and very rarely at the ground we walk on. We do it because there’s nothing that interesting about asphalt. We don’t even think that it’s there to support us. We scarcely take notice of those who work in concrete repair in Ogden or other places who are partly responsible for our convenience and safety.
Yes, concrete repair is vital. Concrete supports us in different ways, not just the ground we walk on without a moment’s thought. For example, it holds up our houses, steadies our buildings, and carries our weight in train stations. We benefit from concrete and its repair. But some people need it more than others, are more dependent on it, and lack certain privileges that we take advantage of. Who should be kept in mind when reconstructing facilities made of concrete?
The Elderly
As you age, the harder you find it to go to places. Simple things, such as staircases, pose immense problems to some and sometimes even cause pain. Accidents can occur at any time you aren’t careful. A lot of concrete-related accidents involve the elderly tripping on unseen cracks in the pavement or trying to move a step up on any uneven ground. While there are sometimes good samaritans who are willing to lend them a hand, the elderly will appreciate a nicely paved road and steps with low gaps even more.
Young Children
Children are the opposite of the elderly, as they are still struggling to find a place in this world. The world to them is as challenging and might be even more bewildering. They can trip over cracks, fall into utility holes, and lose their balance in steps. They are also generally playful and tend to not look at the ground they are walking on, especially when they are in the middle of their game or if far away into the depths of their imagination. We do not want to discourage our children from imagining or playing for that matter. Fewer kids play on the street today and prefer staying indoors with their gadgets. They will have no excuse and be forced to play outside in the sunshine if the roads are even, well-paved, and safe.
People with Disabilities
Some disabilities are not often seen. For example, someone with a heavy build may seem healthy and robust at first glance, but they might be partially blind and are at risk of tripping on cracked roads and steps. There should be ramps and slanted walkways for people who have difficulty walking. These include muscle-related leg afflictions, polio, cerebral palsy, or even simple injuries from sports that cause immense pain when moved. Streets and stairs should be inclusive, too. Anybody might need it anytime.
The streets are a test on our empathy as human beings to those who find it more challenging to move around. Concrete repair is just one of the many aspects that can level out the playing field of the world.
