Privacy and comfort for two...
As reported on Clear Channel's Website January 2004:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Adshel, a division of Clear Channel Communications, recently installed Pittsburgh's first computerized, self-cleaning public restroom facility or officially, the Automated Public Toilet (APT).
Neighborhood residents are thrilled to have a public restroom. The APT is well-lit, wheelchair accessible and the professionally-landscaped, brick exterior makes it an attractive addition to East Carson Street.
The technology for the toilets is quite amazing. Users insert a quarter and the large door slides open to reveal the 10 feet high by 8 feet wide by 9 feet deep facility. The floor of the APT, made of aluminum and coated with non-slip vinyl, is hinged in sections. After each use, the floor moves on rollers and is sprayed with disinfectant. The toilet bowl is also disinfected. The whole interior is dried and 40 seconds later, the unit is ready for use again. Sensors recording all of the system's functions are monitored at the company's Pittsburgh offices. Emergency call buttons are also available in the APT, providing two-way emergency communication with Clear Channel Adshel. Pittsburg fire and police units have keys and access information. Richard Grasso, Vice President of Business Development for Clear Channel Adshel said this unit is one of the company's most sophisticated models.
The $250,000 lavatory is a result of a city contract between the City of Pittsburgh and Clear Channel Adshel and comes at no expense to area taxpayers. Advertising revenue from Pittsburg Adshel bus shelters support the APT costs.
