The 3D Project

Thanks to those who came out to support public transit in La Crosse, share transit stories and ideas, and get a sneak peak at the Fryseth Family 3D project! It was nice to meet up in person for a change. There was even a news report about the event! Thanks, Channel 19! 

Here's more about the 3D tactile map project from Lillian and Quentin Fryseth:

How would you navigate our MTU system if you had a disability? Sure, the app is ok, but it doesn’t address the transit center/transfer point, or it can be confusing for those who may not want to use the app. 

This is a question that my brother and I witnessed first hand. My mother is blind and has difficulty at times remembering where a bus is located or schedule. We saw a need for accessibility change!

We are creating a tactile map of the outdoor portion of the transit center as well as the Clinton/Caledonia Street transfer point. This would be color contrast 3D tactile areas with large raised print with braille on buses and street tags. 

We also are updating and simplifying time table routes and putting a QR code opposite the number on each of the buses to make it easier to use. The QR code will also give a clock face directional cue, using the information kiosk as the focus point, to improve accessibility. 

On the Clinton and Caledonia Street Transfer Point, it will give the direction of travel and where each bus is located. Both maps will also include a MTU phone number in large print and in braille. 

This will hopefully assist people to travel independently and ride confidently who may have cognitive impairments, be elderly, blind or have low vision.

We have been working in partnership with the La Crosse Library, and have had our parents support the cost to 3D print, as well as the MTU with route information and many questions. We are hoping to complete this project with the conclusion of our summer break before school starts.

Our hope is that the community as a whole will be able to utilize our MTU transit map with ease. It also will be a more cost effective option then other methods to travel within our great city.