Duane Sullins

October 17, 2002

To Whom It May Concern:

I am losing my vision because of Retinitis Pigmentosa. I have recently learned that there is a proposal to require beepers or bird calls at every intersection where there is a traffic light. If this is being done for blind people, it is a mistake. I have not yet learned to travel without sight, but I am acquainted with people who do it every day independently. I would expect that I can learn in the same way.

Blind people do not need to change the world in order to participate in society, and we do not want others to believe we need more help than we really do. Sight loss is not a pleasant thing to contemplate, but you do not need to make it more conspicuous than it already is -- especially when you are not helping anybody. We appreciate your concern, but concern needs to be wise.

When there are curbs or slopes between the sidewalk and the street, no alteration is needed. We cannot afford to waste tax money on services that are not helpful. There are plenty of things that really are needed: especially public transit.

Please reconsider these proposed regulations.

Very truly yours,

Duane Sullins