This report will be of interest to individuals seeking to improve the livability of their communities and to those concerned with the role that local streets and public transportation can play in pursuing this goal. The report presents 10 strategies used in both the United States and Europe to create transit-friendly streets. The strategies are followed by case studies of five communities that have pursued different initiatives to improve their livability by making their streets more transit-friendly. The report culminates with lessons learned from the case studies. The report is very practical and will be useful to transit professionals, transportation planners, engineers, city officials, and local communities. TCRP Project H-4D(2), “The Role of Street Design and Traffic Management in Supporting Transit and Liveable Communities,” addresses the connection between transit and streets, recognising that the design and management of streets and traffic can and does impact the livability of communities. The research report sets the context for the research results by providing the following definition and goals for transit-friendly streets: Transit-friendly streets make transit use more efficient and convenient while making the street less convenient for automobiles while still accommodating them. At the same time, other functions of a street are recognised so that transit does not overwhelm the street. Transit-friendly streets accomplish the following four goals: · Establish a clear priority for transit vehicle operations with convenient, accessible transit stops; · Reduce conflicts between cars and other private vehicles, including reduction of vehicle speeds; · Create a strong pedestrian orientation, including adequate circulation space, ease in crossing streets, and appropriate amenities, all of which contribute to comfort and convenience; and · Integrate the whole process of planning shared transit streets into a larger community development or livability-enhancing strategy, working closely with the communities impacted by the program. The research included five detailed case studies, representing different types of communities and settings with different traffic management and street design strategies, that demonstrate how and why transit was critical to improving livability and the function of the street. The case studies are highly transferable to other places in the United States because the concepts presented can be pursued regardless of location, type of transit service, or character of the commercial district. The cases present a range of budgets including short-term, small-scale efforts, as well as major capital program and long-term projects. Importantly, the cases describe how obstacles and barriers were overcome. The lessons presented in the final section of the report will benefit any community seeking to improve its design and traffic management strategies to support livable communities. (A)
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