My wife, Bernadette, and I are totally blind and have been traveling
independently wit the use of white canes for over 40 years without detectable
warnings. Although we reside in Cincinnati, Ohio, we have traveled in many large
cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Toronto, and New York City. With a 70%
unemployment rate, it is important for those who are blind to live in the world
as it exists. The instances when detectable warnings would be beneficial are
very small. With the state of the economy, I should think that any reason for
not spending money would come as welcome news. With adequate mobility training,
pedestrians who are blind can navigate most thoroughfares; any installation of
detectable warnings should be done in consultation with residents who are blind
and live in the areas under consideration for such devices.
Sincerely,
Paul Dressell
index
next comment
