I am concerned about not having our intersections and train platforms safe for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. I am a totally blind working citizen who uses a dog guide.

I am thankful that we have tactile warning strips on either side of the platform at our Trax Train Stations. We are having more stations built in our area, and I would hate to see these detectable warnings go away.

I have traveled in and out of state and have had to conquer many high travel areas, which are not equipped for a blind and/or visually impaired person to be aware and/or orient themselves to potentially dangerous situations.

Many people take a huge risk attempting to navigate through high traffic areas without detectable warnings and accessible pedestrian signals.

You may think that blindness and visual impairments are NOT wide spread problems. I work in an agency which serves blind and visually impaired citizens. Many of my clientele are of the baby-boomer and/or senior citizen populations who are being effected by visual problems such as macular degeneration, Diabetic retinopathy as a result of diabetes, etc. While many of these individuals may be experiencing visual difficulties, they are afraid to ask for help. Having something which will attract their attention, such as a detectable warning strip, or an accessible pedestrian signal may prevent them from getting hurt or losing their life unnecessarily.

I highly encourage you to support the legislation in the bill regarding DETECTABLE WARNINGS and ACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS IN THE PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY.

Thank you for your support in this matter.

Warm regards,.
Cindi, and the wonderful Guide Dog, Romy