Keolis, MBTA Launch NaviLens Pilot to Help Blind, Low Vision Riders

Keolis Commuter Services, the operating partner for the MBTA Commuter Rail, introduced a pilot to test NaviLens at North Station and Salem Station.

The technology allows passengers who are blind or have low vision to navigate the stations with a smartphone app.

How it Works for Riders

When riders scan brightly colored QR-style codes posted in the stations, the NaviLens app will then help them find the correct platform, provide real-time train information, and guide them to exits or other landmarks with audio navigation and haptic feedback.

"The MBTA welcomes and supports every opportunity to make our system easier to access, especially for riders who depend on it most,” said MBTA GM/CEO Phillip Eng. “The ability to access our Commuter Rail stations with confidence further supports riders’ independence, and we look forward to the deployment of this innovative technology pilot in additional stations soon.”

Pushing to Pilot Forward

The NaviLens pilot will soon add four more stops on the Newburyport/Rockport Commuter Rail Line at Lynn, Chelsea, Swampscott, and Beverly.

Keolis will gather feedback from riders and work with the MBTA’s system-wide ccessibility team to better understand all of the ways that the technology could be used and implemented in support of accessible wayfinding.

Riders will have the opportunity to learn about the new tool during several pop-up demonstrations in the coming weeks.