The pedestrian-oriented Farmers block is the first stretch of the George St revamp to be completed and it features seating areas, garden beds and slow-speed one-way traffic.
The redeveloped part of the street has mostly been received warmly, but there is some doubt about what form the rest of the planned redevelopment should take, as new Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich has signalled he wants some elements reviewed.
"I would like to see the George St changes progress," Mr Ford said.
"Please don’t undo the work, which has already been done by so many, and will in time benefit so many."
The focus of work has shifted to the Knox block and, if councillors agree to a review, it appears any significant change of direction might apply to the Golden Centre and New Edinburgh Way blocks.
Mr Ford said the redeveloped part of George St could be navigated far more easily now by people in wheelchairs.
"Improved accessibility of George St is something that I, and other disabled people, cherish."
There are no kerbs in the Farmers block, making it easier for people in wheelchairs to cross the street in more places.
"I just feel so liberated," Mr Ford said.
He felt it was ironic some councillors favoured a review, as he expected this would force up the cost of the project.
Mr Radich signalled there was doubt about this.
The full upgrade of George St and the surrounding retail area, including replacing pipes, is budgeted to cost about $60 million and is due to be finished in 2024.
Mr Radich indicated it was not known how well any tweak in design would compare and this would be territory for the review.
CCS Disability Action access co-ordinator Mary O’Brien said positive feedback had been received about the Farmers block.
She praised the level surface, the "welcoming" shared spaces, mobility parks , a smaller carriageway and safer crossing distance.
Room for cafe tables, shade and places where people could sit and rest were inclusive features of the Farmers block, she said.
