A resolution drafted by the Austin, Texas chapter of the National Federation of the Blind, in support of local RIAS testing.

Resolution 2005-1

WHEREAS, the Remote Infrared Audible Signs, RIAS, technology from Talking Signs Inc. can provide a blind individual with information about bus schedules at bus stops and other possible locations; and

WHEREAS, this technology can also be provided on the busses themselves to let a person know what bus it is; and

WHEREAS, the RIAS system delivers the information only to the individual requesting it without requiring loud public announcements; and

WHEREAS, this technology is to be tested over the next 4 years, 2006 through 2009; and

WHEREAS, the funding for this testing is already appropriated under Title III Section 3046 of the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2005:  Now, therefore

BE IT RESOLVED by the Austin chapter of the National Federation of the Blind this nineteenth day of November, 2005, that, in support of this testing, we urge Austin Capital Metro to apply for funds to test this technology here in Austin, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we direct the chapter president and chapter board members to take whatever steps necessary in order to ensure that capitol Metro actively pursues grant funds for this project.