Karen Gayle and Members of the East Tennessee Council of the Blind

October 21, 2002

The names and address listed in the signature of this letter are members of the East Tennessee Council of the Blind. Our chapter is located in Knoxville, Tennessee.

We strongly agree with the report and recommendation of the Public Rights of Way Advisory Committee, particularly where the detectable and audible access signals are concerned. We feel they would greatly increased the safety of the blind and visually impaired.

A DETECTABLE WARNING IT EQUIVALENT TO A FLASHING SIGN

It instantly focuses the pedestrian attention as nothing else can. The warnings can be easily and independently detected by the blind pedestrians. We would find the particularly helpful at the following intersections here in Knoxville Gay Street and Main Avenue, Henley Street and Western Avenue. Kingston Pike and Morrell Road.

There are places in other cities needed to protect from subway pits.
There have been several incidents where visually impaired have been
killed or seriously hurt with these not being marked.

We feel these signals would protect both pedestrians and drivers as everyone would know their turn and crossing in making turns.

Thank you for you consideration to this matter and all you can do for us.

Sincerely,

Karen Gayle, President
[ ... ]

James Carter, Vice President
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Linda Dykes, Secretary
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Edith Carter, Treasurer
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Gordon Dykes
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Herbert Jared
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Gwendolyn Jared
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Don Mauldin
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Clyde Reaves
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