Latest news with #publicSpaces
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Important purpose behind markings all over Australian footpaths: 'I had no idea'
Whether it's on city streets, in shopping precincts or train stations, millions around the country walk beside them every day. But how many of us actually know what the trails of bumps and bars on the ground are really for? The City of Brisbane Council issued an important reminder recently, prompting many residents to reveal they had no idea. The council explained that, like in many densely populated cities, the raised markings used on the pavers of areas like Queen Street Mall are part of a braille trail, there to assist people with impaired vision to move about safely. Also known as tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs), these markings are the long, raised strips or dot patterns installed in public areas that often span many metres through busy thoroughfares. They're designed to be felt underfoot or with a cane and are typically located in high-traffic or hazard-prone areas. For many, they act as an essential substitute for visual information, allowing for greater independence, confidence, and safety when navigating public spaces. "Don't stand, walk or place items of braille trails," the City said online. "Keep them clear to help others." Many responding after seeing the post admitted that they didn't realise the markings' important purpose. "I had no idea what these were. I honestly thought it was flooring design or something. What a great idea," one woman said. "I doubt most people know the purpose of these. Good post," echoed a second. "I never knew — now that I know, I will be conscious not to be in the way," wrote a third local. In Australia, TGSIs began to be more widely implemented from the late 1990s, following the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. National standards were later developed to guide their use, with tactile indicators now required in most new public infrastructure and major upgrades. Their presence has since become a quiet but critical part of inclusive urban design — often unnoticed by many, but life-changing for those who rely on them. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Chatham County votes to regulate urban camping
CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WSAV) – Chatham County Commissioners voted to make urban camping illegal, calling it an improper use of public spaces on Friday. The City of Savannah and Chatham County are taking similar steps this week, with both considering ordinance amendments to regulate the use of public spaces, specifically when it comes to people sleeping and camping. County Commissioners voted on Friday to approve the amendment for unincorporated Chatham, which rules it unlawful. County officials said they have met with the city to address urban camping, and the county states that both proposals appear to be consistent with one another. However, in Savannah the amendment discussion sparked mixed reactions at city council's first reading. One resident said, 'passing an ordinance, changing local laws to facilitate the removal of unhoused people is criminalizing homelessness, criminalizing their only shelter when there is not an existing guaranteed solution is unjust.' On the other side of the aisle, another resident voiced, 'Your very thoughtful support of an encampment management policy, which, like this ordinance, focuses on connecting individuals to services and helping them get out of their homelessness situation.' City officials said they strived to provide resources for the homeless population. In Mayor Johnson's words, it's time to strike a balance. He said they are dealing with significant issues with homeless neighbors, some of which are on the criminal side. Alderman Detric Leggett said the city needs to balance business concerns and compassion. 'For us, being the district of hospitality and multiple businesses, we see on one end of that conversation; we see business owners and hotels who have individuals who will either lie down in front of their business and they have to find alternative methods to get people in and out,' he said. 'And they're losing funding because of those efforts and the quality of life of the businesses are one thing in question. Then we have a quality of life for the individuals who are asking for help.' Savannah City Manager, Jay Melder said from a public safety perspective, the proposed amendment would give police a new tool in the toolbox to help protect public places. However, Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan said it may not be the best solution. 'When you give a person a record, it makes it harder for them to get housing, at any rate,' she said. 'So, yes, let's do something about it. Let's not criminalize it and let's not make it illegal to lay up under the stars and rest in areas that you call home.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
CNET
07-05-2025
- Health
- CNET
Stay Healthy on Your Next Trip With Our Wellness Editors' Must-Have Travel Essentials
Sharing public spaces: You can get sick during and after travel for many reasons. One of the most common reasons is being surrounded by more people than usual, often "in enclosed spaces with others who may be passing things on to you when sneezing, coughing, etc.," says Bawer. Lack of quality sleep: Traveling can cause your immune system to kick into overdrive due to higher stress levels and lack of sleep. Changing time zones affects your circadian rhythm, which in turn affects sleep patterns. Not getting enough quality rest can weaken your immune system, so it's important to prioritize sleep while you're traveling. Changes in diet: "Most people do not eat well-balanced or nutritious meals when they are traveling. Many will also increase the amount of alcohol they consume or other substances, which can increase our chances of exposure to pathogens and weaken the immune system," Bawer explains.
