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Pedestrian Instructions
Speakers and raised arrows on APS signals provide information about the intersection to pedestrians with hearing and visual impairments.
What is an Accessible Pedestrian Signal?
Accessible Pedestrian Signals provide directions in alternative formats such as:
- Verbal messages
- Audible tones
- Vibrating surfaces
Accessible Pedestrian Signals Also Provide Information About
- Existence and location of the pushbutton
- Beginning of the "WALK" interval
- Direction of the crosswalk
Audible Signals
Can be heard 6 to 12 feet from the pushbutton. Volumes become louder or softer in response to level of traffic noise. Audible signals provide information using:
- Repeating tone indicating location of pushbutton
- Tone, click or spoken "wait" indicating button was pushed
- Spoken “WALK” message providing name of street to be crossed
- Spoken countdown of remaining crossing time
Tactile Signals
Located at the pushbutton. Tactile signals provide information using:
- Raised arrow pointing in direction of travel and vibrating during the “WALK” signal
- Braille symbols providing name of street
Why Mn/DOT is Currently Installing Accessible Pedestrian Signals on All New Signal Projects
- Difficult for pedestrians with hearing and visual impairments to accurately determine the timing of some pedestrian crossing signals
- Intersections and traffic signals have become more complex
Benefits of Accessible Pedestrian Signals
- Improve ability of pedestrians with hearing and visual impairments to cross the road safely
- Allow pedestrians to more accurately judge beginning of “WALK” interval
- Reduce crossings begun during “DON’T WALK” phase