Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing Evaluation Incorporating Highway Capacity Manual Unsignalized Pedestrian Crossing Analysis Methodology

Abstract

This report provides a procedure for the evaluation of uncontrolled pedestrian crossing locations that takes into account accepted practice, safety and delay. Safety considerations have been paramount to the analysis of crossings but delay is often not considered. The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) provides a methodology for determining delay that can be included in the analysis of a crossing location. The analysis procedure takes into account previous research procedures and adds in delay considerations to develop a methodology appropriate for use by jurisdictional agencies in the evaluation of what is needed for treatments at uncontrolled pedestrian crossings. The evaluation procedure developed runs through a multi-step process from field data review through the consideration of appropriate treatment options. The evaluation procedure takes into account field data collection; safety/crash history; stopping sight distance; HCM Level of Service (LOS); pedestrian sight distance; origins and destinations/alternate routes; access spacing and functional classification; roadway speed and pedestrian use; FHWA guidance for placement based on safety considerations; school crossings; and appropriate treatment options. Treatment options include four different classes: Signing and Marking Treatments; Traffic Calming Treatments; Uncontrolled Crossing Treatments; and High Level Treatments.