INTERSECTIONS WITH EXCLUSIVE PEDESTRIAN PHASES AND ACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS

Exclusive pedestrian phases at signalized intersections have recognized advantages and disadvantages. Because turning conflicts are reduced and pedestrians can cross diagonally, such intersections are more pedestrian friendly. However, motorist and pedestrian delay is higher and difficulties are created for the visually impaired. While accessible pedestrian signals (APS) may address some of these concerns, no published information was found on the topic of APS at intersections with exclusive pedestrian phases. A study was conducted of six crosswalks (3 with APS and 3 without) at four signalized intersections in Morgantown, West Virginia to examine pedestrian crossing behavior at intersections with exclusive pedestrian phases, as a function of crossing distance, turning movement complexity, traffic volume and type of signal (whether APS or non-APS). At intersections in the central business district, overall only about 10 percent of pedestrians used the detectors. Detector usage was slightly higher at APS-equipped locations, however, this was attributed to higher traffic volumes rather than the audible locator tones. About one-half of pedestrians used detectors at the wide and high-volume intersection of two arterials; this is consistent with previous research. At most, only about 25 percent of pedestrians crossed during the exclusive pedestrian phase. Most crossed with the traffic signal indication. A negligible number crossed diagonally. The effect of crossing distance, traffic volume and turning movement complexity on pedestrian behavior is included. In light of the poor pedestrian compliance, unnecessary vehicular delay is a serious concern. There were no crossing pedestrians for about 75 percent of the pedestrian phases. It was recommended that the vehicle delay, environmental and traffic safety implications of this phenomenon be evaluated.