Pedestrian Safety Improvements
Redmond Downtown Crosswalk Upgrade Project
Funded by a $170,000 grant from the Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program, the Redmond downtown crosswalk upgrade will convert the crossings at 19 signalized intersections from simple parallel lines to the safer ladder-style markings. In many cities, use of the ladder-style crosswalk is often reserved for more high-risk areas or on school walk routes.
Crosswalks are a critical part of the pedestrian network. Research shows the ladder-style markings are more visible to drivers, and the most effective marking for keeping vehicles out of the crosswalk area. (Drivers, please note it is illegal to stop or stand your vehicle on a crosswalk, or to park within 20 feet of one according to Revised Code of Washington 46.61.570).
This project is expected to be complete in October. The new ladder-style crosswalk will then become the standard for pedestrian crossings in Overlake and Downtown.
Countdown Pedestrian Crossing Signals
The City of Redmond is taking the initiative to upgrade existing “flashing hand” pedestrian signals at 90 intersections to countdown signals well before a Federally-mandated deadline of December 2013. City traffic signal technicians began the conversion in August and is expected to be complete by late fall. These pedestrian improvements are being made through the City’s Targeted Safety Improvement Program.
Pedestrian countdown signals tell pedestrians how much time they have left to clear the crosswalk before the traffic signal changes. Most people misinterpret the meaning of the current “flashing hand” signal, thinking that when it begins to flash that means to start running or turn back to the sidewalk from the middle of the street, instead of the intended message to not enter the crosswalk when the hand begins to flash.
On average, it takes a pedestrian four seconds to clear each lane of traffic. The new countdown signals will provide pedestrians with the necessary information to determine whether they have enough time to cross.
Transportation Master Plan Update
City transportation staff is preparing for the first update of Redmond’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP). This document holds the policies and action plans that set the course for the development and management of Redmond’s transportation system.
Streets, sidewalks, trails and regional transportation services have a significant daily influence on the health and well-being of Redmond’s residents. The TMP is designed to strengthen Redmond’s economy while preserving community character and quality of life.
This year's update will guide the development of a sustainable transportation system that supports the City’s vision, provides transportation choices, promotes active and healthy lifestyles and integrates with the natural and built environment.
Involving the community in these decisions is also a major component of the TMP. The Citywide travel behavior survey conducted by the Transportation Services Division in May and June collected travel data, the results of which will be used to help determine the future of Redmond’s transportation system.
We want to thank those who completed travel diaries as part of the Citywide travel behavior survey. It was a very successful effort as a willing community helped us achieve our goal to survey 400 households and 500 Redmond employees about their daily travel habits.
The City looks to further participation from the Redmond community at a public meeting this fall to talk about sustainability and to solicit community participation in the TMP update. Watch for future details.
More information: Susan Byszeski at 425-556-2882 or sbyszeski@redmond.gov
