Assessment of Bicycle Detection Confirmation and Countdown Devices

US Transportation Collection2021PDFTech ReportMonsere, ChristopherKothuri, SirishaHurwitz, DavidCobb, Douglas PJashami, HishamPortland State UniversityOregon State UniversityOregon. Dept. of Transportation. Research SectionUnited States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway AdministrationOregon. Dept. of Transportation. Research SectionUnited StatesTraffic control devicesBicyclesHighway operationsSignal devicesSurveysData analysisBicycle DetectionTraffic OperationsBlue LightCountdown SignalFHWA-OR-RD-21-18Final ReportThis research examined alternate designs for bicycle detection feedback confirmation devices. The research used quantitative data from a video review and responses from surveys to study how the information provided by the confirmation and feedback device affects the overall cycling experience. An online survey was conducted to determine comprehension rates of blue light feedback systems and countdown timers. The findings from the online survey (1,048 responses) revealed that the comprehension of the blue light detection confirmation devices by themselves was generally poor. Comprehension improved when a supplemental sign explaining the blue light was added. The countdown timer elicited high comprehension. Following the online survey, blue light detection confirmation systems were installed at six intersections farside and one nearside. A bicycle signal countdown timer was installed at one intersection. Video has recorded and analyzed and intercept surveys were conducted. A total of 2,428 persons on bicycle were analyzed and 234 intercepted persons were surveyed. Findings from the farside installations suggest that the design where the blue light was embedded in the sign was more visible to cyclists and observed by higher proportions of cyclists in the field. Findings from the nearside location were limited due to the single location. Results from the countdown timer indicate high comprehension rates. At all locations, cyclists indicated that the devices improved their waiting experience. There were changes to bicycle compliance and waiting location but they were site-specific. Observations at the nearside locations were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic.113