Live American Sign Language interpreters are now available to riders of Pittsburgh Regional Transit through an app.
Deaf or hard-of-hearing riders can launch the Aira ASL app to be connected with a professional interpreter within seconds, the authority said in a news release.
The app uses the rider’s smartphone camera and microphone, allowing interpreters to assist riders with anything from purchasing fairs to communicating with other people, PRT said.
The service is available any time with no advance scheduling required.
“This is another step toward our commitment to equitable and inclusive transit for all,” PTR CEO Katharine Kelleman said. “By teaming up with Aira and embracing this innovative technology, we’re making it easier than ever for riders of all abilities to travel confidently and reach the destinations that matter most.”
The authority already has a partnership with Aira, which powers an on-demand visual interpreting service for transit users who are blind or vision-impaired.
PRT said this makes the agency the first public transit system in the country to offer both on-demand visual and ASL interpreting services.
“The addition of Aira ASL at PRT means deaf and hard-of-hearing riders can count on smoother communication, improved experiences, and access to information whenever the need arises,” said Henri Grau, director of deaf community engagement at Aira.
The app can be downloaded for free on the iOS App Store, the Google Play Store or through a desktop app.