Message from the commissioner: Aira app helps guide Marathon weekend

During the weekend of the Boston Marathon/One Boston Day, my office joined with the Office of New Urban Mechanics and Aira to link individuals who are blind or have low vision with an app that provides real-time access to a sighted guide.

The Aira app allows blind and visually impaired people to use their smartphone camera to connect to a remote agent who can describe their environment. This initiative added another layer of accessibility to the Boston Marathon and affirms Mayor Walsh’s ongoing commitment to ensure that the City of Boston is accessible and inclusive of people with disabilities. This was also a great way to celebrate One Boston Day, welcoming people of all abilities to experience everything the city has to offer.