BINGHAMTON, NY - The Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment(AVRE) recently recognizes the Binghamton Metropolitan Transportation Study(BMTS) for its work to improve local pedestrian safety.

At AVRE's recent annual banquet an award was presented to BMTS Director Steven Gayle. AVRE indicated that its Outstanding Community Service Award was given to BMTS for its vision and dedication to safe, accessible environments for all pedestrians. It also recognizes BMTS for its application of modern, consumer friendly and inclusive technology.

Specifically, the award recognized BMTS' work on the recently installed traffic signals at the intersection of Court St./Water St./Hawley St. This signal uses a tone to assist visually impaired people in finding the pedestrian push button. The signal then provides a spoken message that instructs the person to wait or to cross.

Similar signals are expected to be installed along the entire length of Court St. as part of the Court Street Gateway Project. They will also be installed on Hooper Road near the Marian Apartments. Steven Gayle said “BMTS is a strong proponent of both walkability and safety. Over time, we expect to see Accessible Pedestrian Signals installed throughout the Greater Binghamton region.”

The Binghamton Metropolitan Transportation Study is a regional transportation planning agency. Designated under Federal law as a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), BMTS is responsible for developing transportation plans and programs. These plans explore both long-range and near terms needs of the transportation system, and how those needs relate to broader community goals of mobility, quality of life, and economic growth.