New audible pedestrian crossings a big help to visually impaired

Blind and visually impaired persons can cross the road more confidently and safely with the installation of two audible pedestrian traffic signals at the junction of Chelston Park, Pine Road and Culloden Road, and near the National Disabilities Unit, Collymore Rock, St. Michael.

The new audible pedestrian traffic signals, which were installed by the Electronic Unit of the Ministry of Transport, Works and Water Resources (MTWW), are designed to better assist the blind and visually impaired community when crossing the street.

According to Electrician with MTWW’s Electronics Unit, Glenn Clarke, the new audible pedestrian traffic signals verbally indicate to pedestrians when to wait and when to cross the road. They also make an audible beeping locator tone, alerting visually impaired persons where the signals are placed and where to press the button.

“When the person pushes the button, there is tactile feedback or vibration so they will know the button has been pressed. An audible voice will also be heard, indicating for them to wait. When the traffic light turns red [for vehicles], the voice will indicate that the walk sign is on, and a chirping noise will be heard, which means pedestrians can cross. A count down from ten to zero will then be heard, and after the zero, the traffic light will return to green [for vehicles] and the locator tone will be heard once again,” Mr. Clarke explained. 

Social Worker with the National Disabilities Unit, Stevenson Evelyn said the new audible pedestrian traffic signals were a welcome addition to the street furniture. Noting they allow equal access for the blind and visually impaired community when using the road, he called for more audible pedestrian traffic signals to be replicated throughout the country, especially within Bridgetown.

Motorists are urged to slow down when approaching traffic and pedestrian crossings. They should also pay close attention to all pedestrians, including persons from the visually impaired community who may be seeking to cross the road. (KS/MTWW)