Accessible Pedestrian Signals

Accessible pedestrian signals (A.P.S.) provide information about traffic light cycles. The signals are auditory and/or vibratory. In Toronto, it’s common to hear two birdcall sounds at an intersection or crossing. A “cuckoo” sound indicates the legal time to cross in a north/south direction. A “chirp” sound indicates the legal time to cross in an east/west direction. Silence indicates that you have to wait to cross.

A.P.S. can only indicate the “legal” time to cross, not the “safe” time. Because drivers can make mistakes, it’s important to understand traffic surges and intersection layouts.

At some intersections, A.P.S. operates automatically. At others, you have to press the Pedestrian Demand Button for 3-5 seconds to activate the system. Even though the “walking person” light may be on for sighted pedestrians, if you don’t press the button, the signals will not be activated.

For a list of intersections with A.P.S., call the City of Toronto’s Transportation Services at 416-599-9090. Choose “transportation links” from the automated menu, then “pedestrian information,” then “audible signals.” If you discover a problem with an A.P.S. intersection, report it to Transportation Services at 416-397-8723.