The instructor did a great job of presenting the issues and challenges of enduring pedestrians in an environment designed to accommodate vehicular traffic.  Anonymous Attendee

Purpose and Background

In recent years there has been an increased emphasis on improving pedestrian safety. Improving pedestrian safety extends to areas typically seen as being non-pedestrian-friendly, such as high speed and wide roadways. With traffic conditions changing as traffic volumes and congestion increases, the pedestrians' ability to safely cross many roadways is affected. Recent developments in geometric design features, traffic control devices, and technologies may improve pedestrian safety and access by addressing specific problems associated with roadway crossings. Although numerous treatments exist at unsignalized crossings, there is growing concern about their effectiveness. Thus, there is a need to identify and study selected treatments to determine their effectiveness.

A recent research project jointly sponsored by TCRP and NCHRP was initiated to address this particular need. The research was conducted by the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI). The study had two main objectives: (1) to recommend selected engineering treatments to improve safety for pedestrians crossing high-volume, high-speed roadways at unsignalized intersections, in particular those served by public transportation; and (2) to recommend modifications to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD) pedestrian traffic signal warrant. The research team developed and published a final report entitled Improving Pedestrian Safety at Unsignalized Crossings, NCHRP Report 562. Guidelines for use in selecting pedestrian crossing treatments for unsignalized intersections and mid-block locations is included in the report as Appendix A. A summary of this report will be presented during this webinar.

Learning Outcomes

Learn about the latest research on pedestrian collision patterns, marked crosswalks and uncontrolled locations. The presentation will review various treatments that have been tried by public agencies and report the results of research on the effectiveness of the various treatments.

Webinar Benefits

• Gain a better understanding of pedestrian crossing treatments
• Identify treatments that work
• Learn the advantages and disadvantages of different treatments
• Become familiar with what the international community is using

Intended Audience

This webinar will benefit transportation professionals (engineers and planners) who work for consulting firms and city, county, and state agencies involved in designing and maintaining roadways where pedestrian crossing facilities are needed. This course is designed for individuals with and without background or training in traffic engineering.

Webinar Outline

• Pedestrian crossing installation guidelines
• Identifying alternative treatments
• Major street crossings at uncontrolled locations
• Residential street crossings
• Removal of crosswalks
• Signal controlled crossings for pedestrians
• School related crossings
• References

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