Pedestrian channelization
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- Description
- Notable Practices
- Advantages
- Drawbacks
- Images
- References
Pedestrian channelization refers to the installation of safety treatments primarily designed to keep pedestrians on the sidewalk on approach to a grade crossing. These include fencing, bedstead barriers, bollards, short posts with chains, landscaping, and oversized ballast. Implementing these treatments in an offset pattern creates a “maze”, forcing users to slow down and look both ways when approaching a crossing [1]. Another configuration known as Z-crossing is designed to turn pedestrians towards the oncoming rail traffic to get them to look in that direction before they cross.
The installation of pedestrian channelization devices at crossings with automatic gates provides a visual and physical barrier to deter pedestrians from circumventing the gate arms. The installation of a maze or Z-crossing pattern forces pedestrians to look in the direction of oncoming trains before they cross, which is especially important at passive crossings. Studies conducted at locations with pedestrian channelization installed showed positive changes in pedestrian behavior because of the treatments [2] [3].
- Current practice used by commuter rail and transit extends fencing 50 to 100 feet back from designated pedestrian crossings to direct pedestrians to the crossing. [1]
- Where fencing is used, the height should be reduced to 3.5 feet maximum within 100 feet of the crossing to avoid restricting sight distance. [1]
- Pedestrian barriers should be designed to permit the passage of wheelchairs and power-assisted mobility devices, and if bicycles are permitted, to permit the passage of dismounted bicyclist with tandem bicycles or bicycles with trailers. [1]
- Agencies that plan on using fencing extensively need to plan on performing regular maintenance to maintain effective channelization as well as a pleasing appearance to the area. [5]
- Ensure installed measures do not block or impede maintenance access to railroad signal devices. [8]
- Sufficient right-of-way width is needed to construct the fencing in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. [4]
- Fence heights should be greater than 4 feet, and preferably 8 feet, high to act as a significant barrier to pedestrians and prevent trespassing onto the rail right-of-way. [6]
- Chain link fencing is not recommended because the higher cost of its maintenance and lower vandal resistance, compared to other types of fencing. [6]
- Consider using barriers to reduce spacing to force bicyclists to walk their bicycles across the tracks but should have enough space for wheelchairs to maneuver. [7]
- Landscaping may take a few years before it becomes an effective channelization measure. [8]
- Landscaping must be maintained so it does not impede the visibility of any warning devices or signage by road users or railroad personnel. [8]
- Pedestrian movements are channelized to designated engineered crossing locations that provide warnings and controls designed for pedestrian use. [1]
- Pedestrian and bicyclists are slowed down on approach to the crossing. [4]
- Pedestrian barriers are less effective where trains operate in both directions in single or double-track territory because pedestrians may be looking the wrong way in some instances. [1]
- Standard configuration Z-crossings are not suitable for single- or double-track locations where trains operate in both directions on a regular basis. [1]
- Pedestrian channelization treatments may require regular inspection and maintenance.
[1] U.S. Department of Transportation. (2019). Highway-Rail Crossing Handbook – Third Edition.
Abstract: The purpose of the Highway-Rail Crossing Handbook, 3rd Edition is an information resource developed to provide a unified reference document on prevalent and best practices as well as adopted standards relative to highway-rail grade crossings. The handbook provides general information on highway-rail crossings; characteristics of the crossing environment and users; and physical and operational changes that can be made at crossings to enhance the safety and operation of both highway and rail traffic over such intersections. The guidelines identified and potential alternative improvements presented in this handbook reflect current best practices nationwide.
[2] daSilva, M. (2020). Gate Skirts Research at a Highway-Rail Grade Crossing in Ramsey, NJ. Research Results No. 20-20. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration.
Excerpt: Results of the gate skirts design tested during this study, along with ROW fencing, indicate a positive safety benefit of this improvement. Violations were completely eliminated on the crossing’s northeast quadrant after the fencing addition.
[3] University of Illinois at Chicago. (2013). Pedestrian/Bicyclist Warning Devices and Signs at Highway-Rail and Pathway-Rail Grade Crossings.
Abstract: Federal reporting shows a relatively constant number of pedestrian and bicycle fatalities at highway-rail and pathway-rail grade crossings over the past 10 years. This is in contrast to a marked decrease in train–vehicle collisions at highway-rail crossings. Although engineering solutions and education and enforcements initiatives have been proposed and implemented, little is known about their effectiveness to mitigate such incidents. This study reports on findings from the literature, discussions with professionals in the public and private sectors involved in safety at rail grade crossings, and pedestrian/non-motorized user behavior and attitudes toward safety at such crossings. The study highlights the multitude of factors related to pedestrian safety in this context and provides an informed discussion for stakeholders to advance safety initiatives.
[4] Transportation Research Board. (2009). TCRP Report 137: Improving Pedestrian and Motorist Safety Along Light Rail Alignments.
Excerpt: TCRP Report 137: Improving Pedestrian and Motorist Safety Along Light Rail Transit Alignments addresses pedestrian and motorist behaviors contributing to light rail transit (LRT) safety and describes mitigating measures available to improve safety along LRT alignments.
[5] US Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration. (2008). Compilation of Pedestrian Safety Devices In Use at Grade Crossings.
Excerpt: The FRA has worked to gather information on any signs, signals, pavement markings, or other devices used to enhance the safety of pedestrians at grade crossings. State DOTs and rail transit operators have made several submissions, which have included background information and illustrations. These are presented here so that the larger grade crossing safety community might benefit from the work of others in this important area.
[6] California Public Utilities Commission. (2008). Pedestrian-Rail Crossings In California.
Excerpt: This document reviews design and placement of warning devices that are currently used at pedestrian-rail at-grade crossings in California.
[7] Utah Department of Transportation. (2013). UDOT Pedestrian Grade Crossing Manual.
Excerpt: The information provided in this manual is a compilation of standards, conclusions, recommendations, and best practices from a variety of sources.
[8] Southern California Regional Rail Authority. (2021, January). SCRRA Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Manual.
Excerpt: This Manual was developed in 2009 and issued as a Recommended Design Practices and Standards Manual.
Additional Resources
Federal Highway Administration. (2023). Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
Excerpt: The purpose of the MUTCD is to establish uniform national criteria for the use of traffic control devices that meet the needs and expectancy of road users on all streets, highways, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and site roadways open to public travel.