Newton, MA — 18 August 2026 – The City of Newton and Hear2There (H2T) today announced the launch of new audio guidance technology at three of the city’s most-visited public buildings: Newton City Hall, Newton Free Library, and the Cooper Center.
The Hear2There app helps people who are blind or visually impaired navigate public spaces with greater independence and confidence. When visitors enter an H2T-enabled building, the free smartphone app provides real-time audio guidance to key locations such as entrances, restrooms, elevators, and service areas.
“Newton is committed to making our public spaces more welcoming and accessible for everyone,” said Mayor Marc Laredo. “By bringing this technology to three of our most-visited public buildings, we are helping residents and visitors who are blind or visually impaired navigate important community spaces with greater independence. We look forward to building on this work as we continue improving accessibility across the city.”
Hear2There uses small wireless beacons and location-based audio messages to provide information where and when people need it. The technology is designed to support the blind and visually impaired community, while also helping anyone who benefits from clearer guidance in public spaces.
The City plans to explore expanding H2T to additional appropriate government buildings and public spaces across Newton. H2T is also working with local organizations and businesses interested in improving accessibility for their visitors, customers, employees, and community members.
“Newton is showing what practical accessibility can look like when a city takes action,” said Jacob George, CEO of Hear2There. “Our goal is to help people who are blind or visually impaired more fully participate in public life — whether that means visiting City Hall, using the library, attending a community event, or simply moving through shared spaces with less friction. We are proud to work with Newton on this important step and to continue supporting organizations that want to make their spaces more accessible.”
Organizations and businesses interested in learning more about H2T can visit www.H2T.com or contact info@H2T.com.
About Hear2There
Hear2There, also known as H2T, provides audio signage technology that helps people who are blind or visually impaired better understand and navigate physical spaces. Through the free Hear2There app and location-based audio points installed in buildings and outdoor environments, H2T delivers useful information where and when people need it.
About the City of Newton
Newton, Massachusetts, is a city of approximately 90,000 people located just west of Boston.
