10-02-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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CROSSWALK INSTALLATION Marked and signed crosswalks are a critical element for the pedestrian network in the City. It is of little use to have a complete sidewalk/pathway system if pedestrians cannot safely and conveniently cross intersecting streets. When determining the need and location of crosswalks several important concepts and issues should be considered. These include: Creating reasonable expectations where pedestrians may cross a roadway. A crosswalk creates a visible indication for both motorists and pedestrians as to where pedestrians may be expected to cross a roadway. Knowing when and where crosswalks are appropriate. Some studies have found that pedestrians may develop a false sense of security when crossing a street in a marked crosswalk. Other studies have found that motorists are more likely to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks, especially where pedestrian right-of-way laws are enforced. Where crosswalks might be located. Generally marked crosswalks are located at all open legs of signalized intersections. Crossing of roadways should be encouraged at controlled intersections (all-way stop or signalized). They may also be provided at other locations. The Institute of Transportation Engineers recommends that certain conditions may not warrant installation of marked crosswalks, such as where hourly, peak pedestrian volume is very low (less than 25 pedestrian per peak four hours), or when traffic volume is very low (less than 2,000 ADT). At all other locations, or when predominately young, elderly, or handicapped pedestrians may be found, crosswalks may be recommended. Analysis Procedure: Step 1: Requests for Crosswalk Installation This request can come from either a resident, the City Council, the Traffic Safety Committee, the school district, or from staff observation of a particular condition. If a request is made from a resident, a signed petition of more than 80% of the households within a 300' radius of the location must accompany the request. Step 2: Data Collection This step in the procedure should include collecting available data as listed below: • Average Daily Traffic Volume • Crash Summary • Site Visit • Pedestrian Traffic Volumes • Traffic Speeds • Step 3: Crosswalk Installation Evaluation An evaluation of the location should be completed to determine if the installation is justified based on the following: 1. At uncontrolled intersections, the installation of marked crosswalks should be considered when there is a need. The following indicators of need should be considered when reviewing the proposed installation of a marked crosswalk: a. At least ten (10) pedestrians cross the street during the one-hour period or 30 pedestrians cross during the highest consecutive four-hour periods. b. The crossing is on a direct route to and/or from a significant generator of pedestrian traffic such as, but not limited to, the park, school, community center, commercial district, or transit facility.