GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Gainesville’s Regional Transit System has partnered with American Sign Language to provide information for riders who are hearing impaired in Alachua County.
Part of the partnership includes RTS personnel learning basic sign language techniques to be able to communicate with riders.
“This is a unique partnership that will allow those with hearing problems to communicate more clearly with RTS personnel, while also giving our staff the opportunity to learn new skills and improve customer service with our hearing disadvantaged population,” said Chip Skinner, RTS spokesman.
This is the first such partnership between ASL and a public transit company in Florida, according to RTS.
“We hope that those we serve see the benefit and other transit agencies use our partnership to create ones of their own throughout the state and country,” said local ASL member Larry Clark.
Officials hope to start the new partnership within a month.
