Accessible Pedestrian Signal Operation Reminder: Main Street

In 2019 Accessible Pedestrian Signals were installed at the intersections along the Main Street to address the pre-existing crosswalks throughout the Town of Penetanguishene. 

With this newsletter, the Town would like to remind residents and visitors that we are striving to be an accessible community. These devices help many people to remain active and enjoy our beautiful Town, we ask that you please refrain from damaging and destroying these important devices.  If you have an issue with a device, please contact the Public Works Department at 705-549-7992 as there may be a solution which will accommodate the concerns and needs of everyone. 

Your APS Questions Answered!

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS)

Newly constructed or replacement traffic signals in the Town of Penetanguishene are built to include Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) to comply with the Design of Public Spaces Standards of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA).

What are APS?

APS are devices that use audible, tactile, vibrotactile and visual signage methods to assist all pedestrians, including people who are blind, visually impaired or deaf-blind to safely cross town streets.

Do they beep?

Yes. APS signals emit a steady and constant beeping sound, known as a locator tone (listen), to make the push button easier to find for people with limited sight. The locater tone is calibrated so that it is heard only within a few steps from the crosswalk.

How do you activate an APS?

APS are activated similarly to any signalized intersection currently equipped with a push button. To activate, simply press the “raised tactile arrow button” once and wait for the walk signal to appear.

How do you activate the APS audible component?

The APS audible component is also activated similarly to any signalized intersection equipped with a push button. Holding the “raised tactile arrow button” down for at least three seconds triggers a vibration and a sound to inform pedestrians that the audible component has been triggered; the sound is heard when it is safe to cross. The Cuckoo sound (listen) or the Chirp Sound (listen) indicates the right-of-way pedestrian crossing. 

If the audible Cuckoo or Chirp is triggered, the push button with the raised tactile arrow pointing in the direction of crossing will also vibrate once the walk signal appears.

If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 705-549-7992.

Bryan Murray, P. Eng.

Director of Public Works

Town of Penetanguishene