The city of Chicago has been under scrutiny for its lack of accessible crosswalk signals for the visually and hearing impaired, a situation that has now been addressed to some extent. A federal judge's order in 2025 mandated the installation of more accessible signals, and a court-appointed monitor has since reported on the city's progress.
The monitor's findings, published in July, revealed a mixed bag. While the city has installed 78 new accessible pedestrian signals, which is more than the minimum requirement, these signals fail to meet federal standards. The signals, designed to beep and vibrate to alert the visually and hearing impaired, are technically flawed and often require maintenance.
Rachel M. Weisberg, directing attorney at Disability Rights Advocates, points out that these signals, while usable, are not as effective as they should be. The standards for these signals are set by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, which specifies everything from button placement to signal distance from the curb.
Despite the technical shortcomings, the Chicago Department of Transportation has demonstrated a commitment to the cause. They have drafted an accessible pedestrian signal policy and have been proactive in installing signals at intersections requested by the public. Since 2019, the city has included accessible signals in all intersection reconstruction projects, a significant step towards inclusivity.
However, the city still has a long way to go. With only 6.5% of the city's 2,800 intersections having accessible signals, the goal of 71% by 2035 and 100% by 2040 remains a challenge. The city's progress is a stark contrast to other cities like New York, which, until recently, had a similar issue and is now under a court order to improve.
The lawsuit filed by the American Council of the Blind of Metropolitan Chicago in 2019, and the subsequent court order, highlight the importance of accessible infrastructure. The city's efforts, while commendable, are a response to a legal mandate, and the question remains: why did it take so long?
In my opinion, the city's tardiness in addressing this issue is a reflection of a broader societal problem. The lack of accessible infrastructure is a symptom of a society that has historically overlooked the needs of the visually and hearing impaired. It is a reminder that inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but a legal one, and that cities must take proactive steps to ensure equal access for all.
As Chicago continues to work towards its goal, it has the potential to become a leader in accessible infrastructure. With time and continued effort, the city can set an example for other urban centers, ensuring that the needs of the visually and hearing impaired are not just met but exceeded.
