Abstract Manager

One of the common complaints about Canadian roundabout designs is that pedestrians do not feel comfortable crossing the roadway legs. This concern is especially acute for people with sight loss, who have more difficulty identifying whether approaching drivers or cyclists will stop for them.

The introduction of cycling facilities at roundabouts adds another layer of complexity. Dedicated cycling facilities add another set of roadways for pedestrians to cross, while shared use paths introduce more conflicts within the pedestrian facility.

The needs of different pedestrians can often conflict. For example, people using mobility devices prefer smooth and level surfaces while people using sight canes or guide dogs prefer elevation changes between sidewalks, medians and roadways to give context to the tactile markings.

Mobycon has been working with jurisdictions in Canada to develop design guidelines for single-lane roundabouts with continuous cycling facilities, and as part of that work we have worked with accessibility groups to develop standard designs for crosswalks at roundabouts. In addition to adjusting the design of crosswalks themselves, the design guidelines improve the pedestrian experience by reducing motor vehicle speeds and thereby improving yield rates.

This presentation will cover:

• Methods to improve yield rates at crosswalks through geometric design, including raised crossings and tightened corner radii.
• Accessibility needs of different groups, and how they influence roundabout design
• Strategies to manage contradictory requirements for different user groups
• Recommendations to improve accessibility for crosswalks at roundabouts