TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Peter D. Lear, CPA, CGMA, City Manager
TITLE: Proclamation for White Cane Safety Day October 16, 2019.
Recommended Action
Proclaim October 16, 2019 as White Cane Safety Day.
Background Information
Florida and the City of North Port are becoming increasingly urbanized with steadily increasing traffic and widening roads, and approximately 4,000 vision-impaired pedestrians in Sarasota County face additional challenges completing trips crossing major intersections. The white cane symbolizes the ability of blind and visually impaired Americans to achieve full and independent lives with the capacity to work productively and contribute to society. The Florida White Cane Law, Florida Statute 316.1301, requires that all traffic stop when a pedestrian bearing a white cane tipped in red or accompanied by a guide dog starts across the street, even if there is a green light for oncoming traffic. Motorists should be aware that yielding to such a pedestrian is not just a courtesy, it’s the law.
The Proclamation will be presented to Mr. Hanson and his service dog Marco.
Strategic Plan
N/A
Financial Impact
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Procurement
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Attachments:
1. White Cane Safety Day Proclamation
Prepared by: Laura Reed, Administrative Services Specialist
Department Director: Heather Taylor, Acting City Clerk