Abstract Manager

The Squamish Crosswalk Safety Study, executed by ISL Engineering and commissioned by the District of Squamish, evaluates pedestrian crossing safety at three key locations. It aims to adapt the urban-centric guidelines of the Transportation Association of Canada's Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide (TAC PCCG) to the specific needs of smaller communities like Squamish.

Recognizing the inadequacy of TAC PCCG's urban parameters, such as average daily traffic (ADT) and the disregard of factors like sightline conditions and operating speed in smaller towns, the Study seeks to tailor these guidelines more fittingly. The main objective is to suggest potential modifications to the TAC PCCG, making it more applicable to the dynamics of small-town environments, emphasizing the safety of vulnerable road users.

The Study comprises a comprehensive technical assessment of three Squamish sites, involving collision and traffic data review, detailed field observation, sightline assessment, and TAC PCCG warrant analysis. Additionally, the analysis is extended to over 60 locations in Squamish with surveyed traffic volumes, aiming to assess and refine the applicability of TAC PCCG to the District's unique context. Based on this extensive evaluation, the Study proposes tailored adjustments to the TAC PCCG's Preliminary Assessment Decision Tree and Treatment Selection Matrix, integrating qualitative metrics and fine-tuned parameters to enhance pedestrian crossing safety comprehensively.

The proposed adjustments to the TAC PCCG include the incorporation of qualitative metrics such as pedestrian desire lines, a re-evaluation of pedestrian crossing proximity, and the adjustment of ADT thresholds to reflect Squamish's specific road network characteristics. Additionally, the Study recommends considering the upgrading of marked crosswalks with side-mounted signs to Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) in areas close to childcare facilities, schools, parks/trails, hospitals, or senior housing.

By advocating for these context-aware adjustments, the Study not only aims to improve pedestrian safety in Squamish but also sets a precedent for similar modifications in other smaller communities. The focus on aligning road safety measures with local specifics underlines the importance of a tailored approach to ensure the well-being and safety of all road users, particularly the most vulnerable like pedestrians and cyclists.