Rox'E M. Homstad

October 9, 2002

I am writing in support of the guidelines set forth in the PROWAC report. As a deafblind service dog user, I firmly believe that Accessible traffic signals and detectable warnings will help me and others like me navigate much more safely and independently. Sighted drivers have visible traffic signals such as stop lights. We, the blind and deafblind deserve no less.

It has come to my attention that some members of the NFB, National Federation of the blind,have said that to install accessible pedestrian signals would cost tax payers money, and that the tax payers will then come to resent the blind there by resulting in lack of hiring opportunities. This simply isn't true. Most sighted people I have spoken with are in support of accessible pedestrian signals, and they admit that their installation on street corners helps them as well, by making them more aware.

Respectfully,
Rox'E M. Homstad