(BEIJING, November 21) -- Beijing has made great efforts in the past several years to build accessible facilities, according to Tang Xiaoquan, BOCOG executive vice-president and president of the Executive Board of the China Disabled Persons' Federation.

The capital city was listed as one of the 12 model cities in terms of accessibility nationwide in 2004.

With the preparations for the Olympics entering a decisive phase, the Beijing municipal government has attached great importance to accessibility. The program for improving accessibility has included the repavement or construction of 130 roads and the sloping of the sidewalk ends at 1,180 road crosses, she told those present at a press conference at the Beijing Olympic Media Center on Wednesday.

In addition, accessible facilities have been made available at 460 bank outlets, 20 post offices, over 100 primary and secondary schools, and 50 colleges and universities.

With the approach of the Paralympic Games, Beijing has stepped up barrier-free construction. For instance, detailed plans have been made to improve the conditions of Capital International Airport, Beijing's hotels, subway lines, tourist spots, and other service industries.

As for the Paralympic venues, BOCOG has incorporated the efforts of specialists who checked the venues one by one and put forth proposals for modifications and improvements to make the venues compatible with international building codes and recognized accessibility standards, Tang added.