[NFBF-L] Tampa partners with tech startup Lazarillo to boost accessibility for the blind, visually impaired

[Steve Cook]

Thought my friends in FL maybe interested in the below information!

 

Steve Cook

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President of the Computer Science & Technology Division of the National
Federation of the Blind of SC

1st Vice President of the Columbia chapter of the National Federation of the
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Visually impaired Accessible technology - BingNews - Thursday, December 15,
2022, 5:52 PM


Tampa partners with tech startup Lazarillo to boost accessibility for the
blind, visually impaired


The city of Tampa has implemented a new pilot project
<https://www.tampa.gov/news/city-tampa-launching-new-solution-blind-visually
-impaired-citizens-111891>  with assistive technology company Lazarillo to
improve access to select locations for individuals who are blind or visually
impaired.

The city and company are working together to create accessible indoor and
outdoor maps of public buildings and parks that can be navigated with audio
guidance on a smartphone.

The pilot projects will be in place at Old City Hall, the Tampa Municipal
Office Building and Julian B. Lane Park, all in downtown Tampa.

Local residents with disabilities have already beta tested the maps to
ensure functionality and usefulness in addressing needs among those who are
visually impaired or blind.

"My experience with Lazarillo has been great," said beta tester Janet Bayer.
"I use it with my iPhone inside buildings, on sidewalks, and on the bus. I
find this application user-friendly, informative, accurate and helpful."

 <https://uwf.edu/> 

The product also allows those with mobility disabilities to identify
wheelchair-accessible routes and information about accessible restroom
facilities.

"One of the biggest battles faced by people with disabilities is the
struggle for increased access," Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said. "Access for
people with disabilities improves access for everyone. By implementing
Lazarillo, the City of Tampa is taking the next big step in expanding
opportunities for diversity and inclusion across City facilities."

To utilize the new feature, users can download the free Lazarillo app on
Google Play or in the App Store. Once downloaded and in place at one of the
three mapped locations, the app will open a profile to access a full
directory. The directory can be accessed at any time by navigating the
"accessible locations" category on the app's exploration screen.

"I am excited to be working with the city of Tampa and Mayor Jane Castor on
our first Florida-based pilot program," Lazarillo CEO Rene Espinoza said.

Omni Public CEO Cesar Hernandez, who is a lobbyist for Lazarillo, said the
project showcases the city's willingness to work with tech companies in the
region.

"These solutions are not only for the city, but potentially for the state
and other cities across Florida," he said.

Lazarillo is an assistive technology startup that aims to break barriers to
inclusion with smart technology solutions. The company has worked with
businesses and organizations from across the globe to provide mapping
platforms and enhance customer experience.

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     David Goldfield 

Assistive Technology Specialist

 

Feel free to visit my Web site

WWW.DavidGoldfield.info <http://WWW.DavidGoldfield.info> 

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