Sarah L. Gales

October 9, 2002

I am writing in support of audible signals and tactile warnings at pedestrian crossings. I believe such accommodations would offer safety and ease in travel for blind, visually impaired, the elderly, and children who need to cross busy streets. As a blind pedestrian who has used both a cane and a guide dog I see no disadvantages to providing these accommodations. Often traffic is intermittent or a traveler does not have the skills to read traffic and cross safely. Some individuals have not yet received instruction with a cane or guide dog and are at a disadvantage when attempting to travel independently. Curb ramps have helped wheelchair users and have also benefited the general public. I am quite certain that tactile warnings and audible signals would have the same positive results.

I thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sarah L. Gales