Downey contracts for on-demand interpreting service

DOWNEY – The city of Downey has announced the launch of a new on-demand interpreting service to help residents with limited English proficiency, or those with hearing and speech disabilities, better communicate with city workers.

The service is provided by Language Line Insight via a tablet-based video feed. The service is available at city facilities and with safety personnel in the field.

“This video remote interpreting technology is a valuable tool that will allow staff to converse with all members of the public and increase public engagement,” said Mayor Rick Rodriguez.

Mayor Pro Tem Blanca Pacheco called the service “an entirely new and effective way for our staff to communicate with residents.”

“It is especially important during emergency situations where writing on paper or trying to locate an interpreter can take time away from serving the public’s needs,” Pacheco added.

For questions or more information, call the city’s ADA coordinator at (562) 299-6619 or email ADAcoordinator@downeyca.org.