Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) help pedestrians who are blind, low vision, or Deafblind safely cross the street. These low-cost devices are typically affixed to poles at signalised intersections and emit an audible signal and/or haptic feedback to indicate to pedestrians when they have the right of way to cross the street and in which direction of travel.
APS devices are crucial for pedestrian safety and independence. While they are relatively easy to install at controlled intersections, CNIB regularly hears distressing accounts from our community members about missing, improperly installed or poorly maintained APS devices at controlled intersections.
People who are blind, low vision, or Deafblind should be able to get where they need to go safely and independently – whether they’re travelling across town or across the country.
Join CNIB in advocating for Accessible Pedestrian Signals in your community by asking city officials to prioritize—through funding and city infrastructure planning— the installation, proper implementation and continued maintenance of APS devices!
A sample letter has been provided below that you can use or customize to share your concerns. By sending this letter, you can help create a safer and more accessible community for all.