Pedestrian Facilities: Planning and Conceptual Design for Accessibility and Safety

Federal, state and local policies assert that pedestrian facilities are important parts of a multi-modal transportation system. Communities across California are asking for more emphasis on walkability, with facilities that are safe and comfortable for all pedestrians, including those who are disabled. Recent updates to the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD) and the California Highway Design Manual have provided more options and design guidelines. This new course covers principles and good practices, including how to plan, design, and operate a wide range of pedestrian-friendly facilities, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and other public spaces adjoining or intersecting the vehicular transportation system. Application of current standards and guidelines is emphasized. Case studies supplement lectures.

The course is developed to meet the training needs of professionals charged with preliminary planning, development, or conceptual design of high-quality pedestrian facilities. It will also be valuable for professionals responsible for planning pedestrian-friendly networks, interested in learning how to deliver high-quality facilities, or desiring tools to remodel existing facilities to better serve user needs.