A recent research study funded by the Federal Highway Administration examined marked crosswalks at uncontrolled locations that did not have stop signs or traffic signals. It found that providing marked crosswalks resulted in increased pedestrian collisions compared with not providing marked crosswalks on multilane roads with more than one lane in each direction and average daily volumes of 10,000 or more vehicles per day. On roads with one lane in each direction and less than 10,000 vehicles per day, the study found no difference in pedestrian collisions between marked crosswalks and unmarked crosswalks at uncontrolled intersections. Due to a need to clarify this information, the Institute of Transportation Engineers Pedestrian and Bicycle Task Force prepared this report, summarising various studies on pedestrian crossings. The report and describes over 70 treatments, including pedestrian refuge islands, in-roadway raised pavement markers (with and without internal illumination), high-intensity lighting, curb extensions, pedestrian railings, in-roadway signings, overhead standard pedestrian warning signs, high-visibility markings, flashing beacons, pavement surfacing, special approach markings, lane reductions, double-posting of signs, and flags. Treatments at signalised intersections and mid-block pedestrian signals are also presented. The report also summarises treatments used by public agencies for local residential streets with lower traffic volumes and speeds. Some examples of these treatments at marked crosswalks include raised crosswalks, narrower travel lanes, and speed cushions. (A)
Abstract