Charlie Dennis

October 4, 2002

Dear Friends,

PLEASE don't approve the audible traffic signals and detectable warnings. While these things may be necessary in some situations, it is hardly necessary to put them everywhere. If they are to be installed, please let blind people, rather than concerned sighted people, tell you where to put them.

In most situations, there are already audible traffic signals and detectable warnings in place. The edges of curbs are detectable, as is the space between an El-car and the El-platform; a blind person can tell where he is simply by properly using his cane. In most situations, if the sound of traffic is in from of us, it means we can't cross the street yet; if the traffic sounds are to our right or left, it means we're free to go forward. Audible signals would be necessary only in areas where there are other noises in the mix.

Audible signals can break down or malfunction; if that happens, lawsuits are very likely soon to follow. Sighted people would be put at risk by detectable warnings, because they usually go too fast to notice them. A blind person who needs audible signals or detectable warnings will either have someone with vision with him, or ask for help--yep, good old human interaction--the best things in life are free!

Sincerely,

Charlie Dennis
National Federation of the Blind, Chicago Chapter