Guidelines for Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossings

The purpose of this case is develop some guidelines to address requests for pedestrian crosswalks.  Crosswalks are an important part of the transportation system. Minnesota state statute defines a crosswalk as follows:
(1) That portion of a roadway ordinarily included with the prolongation or connection of the lateral lines of sidewalks at intersections; (2) any portion of a roadway distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface.

This case will concentrate on the requirements for crosswalks at uncontrolled intersections or mid-block locations.  Staff will present a short PowerPoint presentation to further explain pedestrian crosswalks, their usage, treatment options available and their effect on vehicle yield rates.

20-30 Minutes

Many factors go into determining if a crosswalk is needed in a particular location and what level of treatment is appropriate for the conditions.  Traffic volumes, pedestrian volumes, speed limits, accident history, number of lanes, stopping distances for motor vehicles, sight distances for pedestrians and width of the road are all contributing factors to the safe use of the crosswalk. Crosswalk lines should not be used indiscriminately.  An engineering study should be performed before a marked crosswalk is installed at a location away from a control signal or an approach controlled by a Stop or Yield sign.  The Local Road Research Board provides data collection sheets and an "uncontrolled pedestrian crossing evaluation flowchart" to help local jurisdictions make decisions on crosswalk locations.  Staff will go through some examples of the worksheets and flow chart and show how they pertain to several of the crosswalks we have in our city.  A copy of the guide book is attached to this case.

General Fund and Trail Dedication Fund

Staff recommends following the Local Road Research Board Manual on Pedestrian Crossings at Uncontrolled Locations.  The final decision to implement the evaluation methodology or any of the crossing location treatment strategies presented in the guide book resides with the agency. Results of this study should not be misused as justification to do nothing to help pedestrians cross streets safely.

Motion to accept staff recommendation to follow the Local Road Research Board Manual on Pedestrian Crossings at Uncontrolled intersections, or reject staff recommendation and choose alternative recommendation based on committee discussion