Daryl Swinson

October 28, 2002

Greetings to the members of the Access Board!

My name is Daryl Swinson and I would like to offer these comments, as a blind citizen and as a tax payer, on the proposed regulations regarding audible traffic signals and tactile warnings.

First, I live in Conway, Arkansas, a town of about 40,000, much of it suburban. Other than in the older downtown area, there is very little access to a sidewalk, which discourages a great deal of pedestrian traffic even where traffic signals exist. The use of audible signals which are not activated by a pedestrian would be wasteful of valuable civic funds. Such signals should only be used in areas where the traffic pattern is not easily distinguishable or where conditions are otherwise hazardous to a competently trained blind traveler. Additionally, such audible signals could best serve the blind as tactile directional indicators, leaving the sense of hearing free for more necessary uses.

Secondly, a proliferation of truncated domes to mark what are easily detectable transitions in pavement height would not only deter blind individuals from obtaining a broader mobility skillset, but cause a nuisance and possible hazard to the mobility impaired and sighted pedestrian.

I thank you for your consideration and hope you make a well informed and fiscally responsible decision on these matters.

Daryl Swinson