The reconstruction of Ilosaari island was given the Finnish Association of People with Physical Disabilities' award for excellent provision of disabled-friendly facilities.

The prize was presented at the Association's 80th anniversary seminar in November.

Ilosaari, an island in Pielisjoki, is an important recreational and event venue in the centre of Joensuu. A diversified use of the area, different user groups and disabled access were considered right from the beginning of the planning stage.

In the project, Ilosaari got accessible bathing and fishing jetties as well as accessible changing rooms and WCs.

In the course of the reconstruction, it was acknowledged that promoting disabled access is an on-going process that requires constant attention and development.

A group of user-advisors included representatives from services for the elderly and disabled. This advisory group visited the reconstructed area together with city representatives and made suggestions for improvements.

The Ilosaari reconstruction is part of the Joensuu Symmetric City project. It is one of Joensuu's most prominent city-centre projects and was carried out in 2016-18.