SAFER CROSSINGS : RESEARCHERS PROPOSE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING GUIDELINES AND SIGNAL WARRANT CHANGES

Studies by the Texas Transportation Institute resulted in recommendations to change the way the state determines if an intersection warrants a signal to protect pedestrians. They and cyclists should be counted along with motor vehicles. Also, nearness to pedestrian-generating sites such as schools should be a factor. Non-signalized pedestrian crossings can be made safer by increasing the crossings' visibility, slowing vehicles near crossings, shortening the distance of the crossing by installing medians or extending curbs and periodic enforcement drives.