WTA to Host Open House Showcasing New NaviLens Wayfinding Technology
BELLINGHAM, WA - Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) invites the community to an open house on Friday, April 18, from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Bellingham Station to learn more about NaviLens, a free app that makes transit more accessible. WTA staff will demonstrate how NaviLens works and help riders download and test the smartphone app onsite.
NaviLens is a globally recognized accessibility tool used in major transit systems, including those in New York City, Madrid, and San Antonio. It assists individuals who are blind or who have low vision by translating visual signage into spoken directions and by providing real-time information. The app also benefits riders whose first language is not English by translating information into their preferred language.
The colorful QR codes can be scanned up to 50 feet away and read within a second. At Bellingham Station, the codes direct riders to the nearest bus gates and announce upcoming departures.
WTA is piloting NaviLens at Bellingham Station, with plans to expand to Cordata Station next.
How to use NaviLens
Download the FREE NaviLens app and/or NaviLensGo app to your IOS device or Android device.
NaviLens app will read signs and provide an audio message guiding you to the code and providing information stored in the code.
NaviLensGo app provides a text message of information stored in the code.
Once the app has been downloaded, hold your phone at chest level as you walk through Bellingham Station, and the app will scan the environment and detect codes in the area.
For more information about NaviLens or the Open House, please contact:
Genevieve Carrillo
Community Relations and Marketing Manager
genevievec@ridewta.com