Accessible pedestrian signals are evolving. Audible crossing signals devised for people with low vision are a signal for all of us that it’s safe to cross the road. And now we have the “guiding sound corridor” which gives increased guidance to reach the other side more easily. As soon as a pedestrian activates the signal, the guiding sound corridor emits at both ends of the crossing. Then they just have to follow the sound to cross the street. It gives greater safety and independence because the signal ensures they are going in the right direction.
An article in the Inclusive City Maker blog explains the system. From a city planner perspective, this kind of device can encourage more walking for people with low vision and their companions.
How does it work?
The blog post explains that a guiding sound corridor needs to have 3 elements to be perfectly efficient:
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- Poles with the accessible pedestrian signals (APS) need to be located face to face, on the same side of the crossing.
- The broadcast emitted by the audible pedestrian signals need to be led towards the crossing,
- Activation of the APS needs to be simultaneous – both sides of the crossing are synchronized and paired.
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A video on the blog site illustrates how it works.