Intersections and Street Crossings

Intersections and mid-block street crossings are a critical part of the active transportation network. Frequent, direct, and safe opportunities for crossing the street ensure that people walking and biking can navigate the network, connect with transit and access the places they want to go. Intersections should be designed to minimize bicyclist and pedestrian exposure to motorized traffic and minimize bicyclist conflicts with both motorists and pedestrians. The following design principles should be followed:

1. Reduce speeds at conflict points to allow more time to react and avoid a collision and reduce risk of serious injury if a collision does occur.
2. Communicate the right of way priority by using marked crosswalks, marked bicycle crossings, audible and tactile devices, regulatory or warning signs, signalization, and other traffic control devices where appropriate.
3. Provide adequate sight distances and visibility between bicyclists, motorists, and pedestrians as they approach intersections.
4. Use intuitive transitions to other facilities, considering all users of the intersection; design clear and direct paths for pedestrians to cross bicycle facilities.
5. Accommodate persons with disabilities.