Innovative Navigation App Enhances Accessibility on the Trans Canada Trail in Victoria
BlindSquare technology now live on the Trail in Victoria, creating safer, more inclusive outdoor experiences for people who are blind or partially sighted
Victoria – Newly implemented technology is helping people who are blind or partially sighted explore part of the Trans Canada Trail with greater independence, confidence and connection to the community around them.
BlindSquare, a self-voicing navigation technology, is now fully operational on the City of Victoria’s section of the Trans Canada Trail. The technology, which works through a mobile app, provides real-time, spoken guidance that transforms how users navigate and enjoy the Trail.
Made possible through funding from Trans Canada Trail and a partnership between the City of Victoria’s Accessibility Advisory Committee and CNIB Access Labs, this project is designed to make outdoor experiences more equitable.
“This project is a powerful example of how innovation and collaboration can remove barriers and create more inclusive outdoor spaces,” says Trisha Kaplan, Director of Trail Inclusion Initiatives at Trans Canada Trail. “This technology makes a real difference for people who are blind, deafblind or partially sighted, and it’s wonderful to see it activated on the Trail in Victoria. We look forward to continuing our work in making the Trans Canada Trail more accessible across the country.”
The implementation of the technology was led by the City of Victoria’s Accessibility Advisory Committee and Michael Moore, a lived-experience consultant with the City’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team. Their leadership helped ensure that this installation reflects the needs of local residents.
BlindSquare uses GPS and audio cues to describe surroundings, intersections, trail amenities and landmarks. The app announces practical navigation details as well as features like rest areas, benches and washrooms; cultural or historical points of interest; trailheads and discovery panels.
This implementation is one of many accessibility initiatives supported by Trans Canada Trail. One of the organization’s key priorities is to remove barriers to access and foster inclusion to ensure that everyone — regardless of ability, background or location — can experience the benefits of the Trail.
In addition to supporting a funding stream for accessibility and inclusion improvements on trails across the country, Trans Canada Trail also recently created guidelines for All Persons Trails and, through a partnership with AccessNow, carried out Accessibility Mapping on more than 50 trails throughout the country.
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Media Contact
Justin Fauteux
Manager, Media and Public Relations
jfauteux@tctrail.ca
Resources
- Learn more about BlindSquare
- Explore Trans Canada Trail’s interactive map
- Learn more about Trans Canada Trail’s Accessibility and Inclusion in Trails Stream
About Trans Canada Trail
The Trans Canada Trail is the longest multi-use trail system in the world and it is always growing. It reaches every province and territory and connects all three of Canada’s coastlines. Each section of the Trans Canada Trail is managed locally and supports different activities and community needs.
Trans Canada Trail is the organization that advocates for, stewards and champions Canada’s nationwide trail system. It is a registered charity that receives funding from the Government of Canada (through Parks Canada), various provincial and municipal governments, and generous donors.
About City of Victoria
Victoria is a vibrant, forward-thinking community with a strong economy and arts scene, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island on the homelands of the Songhees Nation and the Xwsepsum Nation. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the city champions sustainability, health and well-being as key to creating a prosperous and inclusive future.
About CNIB Access Labs
CNIB Access Labs is an accessibility consultancy dedicated to transforming digital experiences and built environments across Canada. With a focus on user-centric design and Lived Experience Accessibility Testing services, CNIB Access Labs aims to revolutionize accessibility practices and foster a society where no one is left behind. One hundred percent of our proceeds are reinvested into CNIB to create innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion.
