New Westminster and Vancouver are part of a TransLink pilot project to help customers with sight loss. The first of its kind in Canada, the project is designed to help customers to better navigate the transit system independently using the NaviLens app.
How does the app work?
The app scans specialized coded decals, resembling QR codes.
Once the decals are scanned, the app provides audio instructions that guide customers to bus stops and exact points of pick-up; the app can also identify nearby amenities, such as elevators and can provide real-time information alerts.
The audio way-finding tool allows customers with sight loss to easily obtain information from the codes: Codes can be scanned from up to 14 metres away; no focus is required to scan codes; codes can be scanned in all light conditions; and the app can be used while the customer is moving.
What other cities has the NaviLens system been in use?
According to TransLink, the NaviLens system is in use around the world, in cities such as New York City, Liverpool and Madrid – to help people with sight loss find their way in public spaces, including transit systems, rail stations and shopping centres.
Sixteen NaviLens codes have been installed at three TransLink locations: 10 bus bays at New Westminster SkyTrain station; four bus stops near the CNIB office at Sixth and Sixth in uptown New West; and two bus stops near the VCC campus on East Broadway in Vancouver.
Who did TransLink get input for the project?
In 2018, TransLink conducted an online survey and sought direct input from members of the vision loss community in Metro Vancouver, with the purpose of learning more about how people who are blind, partially sighted or deafblind use TransLink’s bus services. The development of this approach included direct engagement with CNIB, Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, Alliance for the Equality of Blind Canadians, Canadian Council of the Blind, and TransLink’s Access Transit Users’ Advisory Committee.
TransLink states that this survey and the direct feedback received from stakeholders informed its approach, and was approved by the TransLink Board in 2019, for improving the accessibility of the transit system for people with sight loss.
What other projects have been approved to help customers navigate?
Improvements include: tactile walking surface indicators on TransLink-owned and leased property; dual-format braille and tactile signage; and a pilot to test wayfinding technology (the Accessible Navigation Project). Last year, TransLink began installing braille signage at every bus stop, roughly 8,400 – throughout Metro Vancouver, and it’s also started installing the tactile walking surface indicators.
When is the project available for customers?
Starting in late February, customers can download the NaviLens app through the Apple Store or Google Play
What is the timeline for the Accessible Navigation
Project?
The Accessible Navigation Project will run for six months and will be evaluated for future expansion throughout the region.
