Vancouver, WA—C-TRAN is announcing a partnership with Aira, a visual interpreting service, to provide complimentary access to Aira Explorer for all blind and low-vision transit riders. Aira provides a valuable navigation tool for riders in Clark County, and the partnership underscores C-TRAN’s commitment to accessibility.
Aira Explorer is an app that provides on-demand, remote visual interpreting services. Clark County transit riders can download the app for free in the iOS or Google Play App Store, tap a button, and connect via secure video call with a professional visual interpreter. The interpreter uses the caller’s phone camera to assist with navigation, provide description, read aloud signs and maps, and help with any other tasks a rider may be looking to accomplish while traveling within Clark County.
Local access to Aira Explorer went live in Clark County this week. Users can automatically use the app for free at major hubs in the C-TRAN system, including transit centers, or with a designated access offer in the app while traveling on C-TRAN elsewhere.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Aira to provide this important tool to our blind and low-vision community here in Clark County,” said Leann M. Caver, C-TRAN’s Chief Executive Officer. “C-TRAN is committed creating opportunities and removing barriers. This partnership is a natural fit.”
“A lack of access to visual information can be an impediment to independently navigating and travelling through one's environment,” said Everette Bacon, Aira's Chief of Blindness Initiatives. “We're proud to offer our services in partnership with C-TRAN because it means expanding the accessibility and reach of their transit system. When riders know they have professional visual interpreting at their fingertips, it means more engaging, efficient, and inclusive travel.”
Riders can make calls to Aira 24/7/365, and no advance reservations are required. There is no limit or cost to calls, and the service is designed to be available whenever the need arises. C-TRAN riders can also use Aira’s image chat feature, where they can upload or take an image—like of a bus stop sign—and receive a detailed AI generated description.
About C-TRAN: C-TRAN is the regional public transportation provider for Clark County. It offers Local bus service within its Clark County service area, plus Regional and Express bus service to Portland. C-TRAN also provides on-demand service with The Current, operating in Camas/Washougal, Ridgefield/La Center, WSU Vancouver/Salmon Creek, Rose Village, and the Port of Vancouver. For more information on C-TRAN please visit C-TRAN’s website at www.c-tran.com, or call Customer Service at 360-695-0123.
About Aira: At Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf Community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app, and be instantly connected to a professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira is proud to lead the way in delivering secure, on-demand, inclusive services that transform lives and open doors to new opportunities for all. More information is available at here.
Contact:
Eric Florip, Manager of Communications and Marketing
Eric.Florip@c-tran.org
360-906-7391 Office
360-904-9641 Cell
Hannah Griffin, Content Lead, Aira
Hannah.Griffin@aira.io