The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has installed radar-enabled crosswalk buttons at nearly 250 intersections across the state to help make the pedestrian experience safer.
UDOT is among the first in the nation to implement widespread use of the accessible pedestrian signal (APS) technology at crosswalks, making the pedestrian experience safer, UDOT said.
Accessible pedestrian signal (APS) technology reportedly utilizes action movements—like nodding or waving—or activation via an app to assist pedestrians. Once triggered, the APS alerts pedestrians through an audio feature.
The app, PedApp, also provides pedestrians with live, supplemental information at crosswalks, such as the amount of walking time remaining or the street name and direction they’re heading, UDOT said. Sight-limited pedestrians can also enable a feature that helps them locate the button.
Crosswalks with this type of technology can help people with varying disabilities safely, confidently, and independently cross streets, UDOT said.
Mike Blanchette, UDOT traffic engineer, said the new crosswalk technology benefits everyone by facilitating safe and independent movement regardless of age or ability.
"The app and touchless buttons are key components of an accessible, inclusive transportation system," he said.
UDOT has installed more than 1,000 of the buttons at nearly 250 intersections in Cedar City, Moab, Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, and Logan.
The department plans to install the buttons at every signalized intersection on state routes by 2033, it says.
UDOT encourages the public to participate in the installation process by flagging areas to prioritize.
"Citizens can submit an online form to notify UDOT of the need for APS technology at a crosswalk," UDOT said.
Source: 2KUTV.com, ABC4.com
