Kim Charlson
|
October 19, 2002 |
Thank you for receiving my comments regarding the importance of accessible
pedestrian signals and detectable warnings for blind and visually impaired
individuals. I live in a community, Watertown, Massachusetts, that has been
forward-thinking to have installed accessible pedestrian signals on all lighted
intersections over 30 years ago. The old system used bells instead of the more
contemporary beeps, but the outcome was the same -- the ability to safely cross
the street. Now, older units are being replaced with contemporary units and no
one has had any problems with the transition.
With the complexities of today's traffic and urban intersections, accessible
pedestrian signals, and detectable warnings, make an extremely important
contribution to the overall accessibility and independence for pedestrians with
visual impairments.
I urge you to continue the excellent work of the Access Board in the direction
of accessible pedestrian signals and detectable warnings. Every blind and
visually impaired person should have the choice to be safe, and to safely cross
an intersection. This should be available to them wherever they live and
regardless of whether they use a cane or a guide dog. Philosophical arguments as
to the impression such devices make on sighted people shouldn't be the
overriding consideration, safety of blind and visually impaired people should be
the goal. Sighted people understand the reason for accessible pedestrian signals
and why they are necessary, and now through the hard work of the Access Board,
governments, states, cities and towns will also know the need for these
essential modifications.
Thank you for your consideration.
Kim Charlson
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