Elevators improve accessibility in Guiyang's old residential community

Three newly installed elevators in Buildings 17, 19, and 20 of the Tianjiao Haoyuan residential community in Xinchuanglu subdistrict, Wudang district, Guiyang city, were put into service on Oct 27, addressing a longstanding challenge for residents living on upper floors.

A ceremony is held to celebrate the commissioning of the elevator on Oct 27. [Photo/guiyang.gov.cn]

The residential community previously had no elevators, making daily travel particularly difficult for elderly residents. In November 2025, all 30 households in the three buildings agreed to apply for elevator installations.

The subdistrict office, community committee, housing authorities, and construction company then worked together to advance the project. Installation of the three elevators was completed in late August this year, and they passed the official inspection on Sept 30.

Residents of the community take one of the newly installed elevators. [Photo/guiyang.gov.cn]

The project received a subsidy of 250,000 yuan ($37,477) by ultra-long-term special treasury bonds for each elevator, reducing the financial burden on residents. The new facilities are now making daily trips more convenient, especially for older people.

"I'm 88 years old, and I live on the sixth floor. I used to struggle with the stairs because of my bad knees. Now, going up and down the stairs is much easier," said Huang Zhuqing, a resident.