Signapse Brings ASL Accessibility to Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Committed to diversity and inclusion, the Port Authority has implemented various policies, programs, and initiatives to support a diverse workforce, expand opportunities for the local community, and cater to the diverse needs of its customers. However, they identified a significant accessibility gap: customer-facing information, such as details about using the Bus Terminal and locating accessibility services at JFK Airport, was not available in American Sign Language (ASL). This lack of ASL accessibility posed operational challenges and hindered their ability to serve Deaf customers effectively.

In search of an innovative solution to address this issue, the Port Authority selected Signapse after our participation in the 2023 Transit Tech Lab. We were chosen for a Proof of Concept and subsequently a year-long pilot project to explore how our technology and sign language capabilities could benefit their customers.

The collaboration focused on integrating our website translation tool into key pages of the Port Authority's website. This tool automatically translates text into ASL, presented by our signer, and can be activated via an icon in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.

Earlier this year, we implemented our website translation tool on the JFK Airport Accessibility Services information page. This functionality has since been extended to include information about the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The tool is compatible with both desktop and mobile devices, ensuring that Deaf customers who use ASL can easily access essential information in their native language.

Our goal is to increase the number of Deaf customers using Port Authority-run transportation by making key information accessible to them and creating a more inclusive experience. We are actively capturing feedback from the Deaf community to gain insights into the tool's impact and make further improvements.

The partnership between Signapse and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey highlights a significant advancement in accessibility and inclusion. By making crucial transportation information available in ASL, the Port Authority not only enhances operational efficiency but also demonstrates a strong commitment to serving all customers equitably. This case study showcases how innovative technology and strategic collaboration can bridge accessibility gaps, fostering a more inclusive environment for all.