I am a totally blind college student who is writing in regard to your possible move to implement audible traffic signals into existence. I am totally in favor of this move. I have read the NFB's contentions that such sounds only tell one to walk, and that such a sound prevents one from being able to hear the sound of the traffic. It's true that technology can falter at times, but if someone hears it's safe to walk, but there are cars passing directly in front of you and are coming up really close, any person with a brain should know not to walk. There are times when traffic lights break, which means that a cop needs to be there to direct the sighted. So problems do happen, but if a blind student is still taught how to use the traffic as a way to know when it's safe to cross, this technology could only enhance a blind person's ability to travel. Regarding the noise blocking the sound of traffic, I have traveled in Watertown Massachusetts on occasion, and have come across lights who use audible signals to indicate that it is safe to walk. The sound, while it could be heard, wasn't loud or blaring enough to block the flow of traffic. I see no problems with the implementation of such technology. I hope you create these audible traffic signals. I know it will make my traveling experiences easier.

Best regards,
David