Stephen O. Benson
|
October 12, 2002 |
I have traveled independently, using a long white cane since 1956.
Since then I have taught techniques of independent travel and I have written “So
What About Independent Travel: An Introduction to the Use of the Long White
Cane”. The text was based on my own travels and on the cumulative experience of
other blind people. I think it is safe to say that our collective travel
experience amounts to several hundred thousand miles. When independent travel
techniques are taught properly, and when blind people are given the proper
encouragement, travel with the long white cane empowers blind people to
participate in the full current of life on terms of equality.
Universal installation of audible traffic signals and detectable warning
surfaces at all intersections simply is not necessary. There is no evidence
anywhere that would justify the enormous cost governmental bodies would incur by
this wild, irrational policy draft. The overwhelming number of intersections
does not require audible traffic signals (ATS). In fact, as proposed, the ATS
would cause tremendous confusion and would certainly endanger the average blind
person’s safe crossing of a signalized intersection. Intersections that have
complex geometry, signalization, or complex traffic patterns might deserve
thorough examination with regard to the possibility of installation of ATS; but,
that investigation should be made only with consultation with competent blind
travelers. If excessive noise is also a feature of a complex intersection,
audible traffic signals would definitely add a significant level of danger to
the blind traveler. I rely on sound to cross all intersections and I can assure
you that excessive noise, especially that allegedly designed to help, is not
wanted.
With regard to detectable warnings at intersections, those proposed in the ADAAG
draft are beyond reason. There are so many cues in the built environment that
detectable warnings would be a nuisance and a hindrance not a benefit. I live in
Chicago where we often have ice and snow. Ice and snow accumulated and caked
within detectable warning surfaces constitutes an extreme hazard to blind and
sighted pedestrians alike. Heavy accumulation of ice and snow totally
obliterates textured pavement, underscoring its uselessness.
One more point: the installations proposed in the ADAAG draft totally ignore the
economic impact on municipal, county, state and federal governments. As a tax
payer who is totally blind, I would much prefer that the dollars that would be
earmarked for the proposed installations be used to properly train blind people
in the alternative skills of blindness, including independent travel with a long
white cane or guide dog.
I implore you to reject the ADAAG draft proposal as written. Please seriously
consider the alternative or minority report submitted by the National Federation
of The Blind. It makes sense. If you have questions, please contact me at (773)
775-9765, home, or (312) 745-0991, work.
Very truly yours,
Stephen O. Benson