AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND

AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
RESOLUTION 2003-14

Supports the immediate installation of remote infrared audible signs in the transportation system of Washington, D.C. as a model to demonstrate to the world that it is possible to provide, through the use of these signs, travel independence to people who are blind or visually impaired, and urges its state affiliates to advocate for the use of remote infrared audible signs by transit systems in their states.

WHEREAS, various studies and extensive use have proven that remote infrared audible signs provide an effective wayfinding system which greatly enhances access to the built environment and to transportation facilities and vehicles for people who are blind or visually impaired; and

WHEREAS, remote infrared audible signs have been installed in many cities in the United States, Japan and Norway; and

WHEREAS, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind is installing these signs in its new headquarters in Toronto; and

WHEREAS, this organization has gone on record as supporting the use of this type of mobility aid; and

WHEREAS, the American National Standards Institute is publishing standards for these signs in its 2003 Standards Manual; and

WHEREAS, a major citywide installation providing portal to portal transportation accessibility would demonstrate the value of remote infrared audible signs as a vital mobility enhancement to users; and

WHEREAS, such an installation has been proposed for Washington, D.C.;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the American Council of the Blind in convention assembled this 11th day of July, 2003, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that this organization support the immediate installation of remote infrared audible signs in the transportation system of Washington, D.C. as a model to demonstrate to the world that it is possible to provide, through the use of these signs, travel independence to people who are blind or visually impaired; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this organization urge its state affiliates to advocate for the use of remote infrared audible signs by transit systems in their states.

Adopted.