Assessment of a Displaced Pedestrian Crossing for Multilane Arterials

This research explores the benefits of a pedestrian crosswalk that is physically displaced from the intersection, using simulation software to estimate the benefits in terms of delay and pedestrian travel time. In many cases, the displaced pedestrian crossing may provide benefits such as reduced vehicle delay, reduced crossing distance, increased opportunity for signal progression, and reduced conflicts with turning vehicles. The concurrent pedestrian service that is traditionally used presents potential conflicts between pedestrians and three vehicular movements: right turns, permissive left turns, and right turns on red. The findings of this research suggest that a displaced pedestrian crossing should be considered as an option by designers when serving pedestrians crossing multi-lane arterials. In addition to reduced delay, pedestrian safety may be improved due to the shorter crossing distance, the elimination of conflicts with turning vehicles, and the potential for high driver compliance rates associated with signals, such as pedestrian hybrid beacons