Handbook of Transportation Engineering

Author(s):

Kutz, Meyer

Publisher/Date:

New York, McGraw Hill, 2004

Rating:

Useful

Abstract:

This college textbook at least has a full chapter on pedestrians (Chapter 21). Further, there is an attempt to point out the need to accommodate a "full range of users" and that there is "no such thing as a standard pedestrian." The text acknowledges that "users include children and people with and without disabilities."

In this chapter, some possible characteristics of disabled (mobility, sensory, cognitive) pedestrians are discussed, as are improvements that can be made in pedestrian design that will provide better access (e.g. concrete sidewalks rather than bricks, pavers or cobblestones; no more than 5% grade; the addition of railings when useful; avoiding the use of stairs; sidewalks on both sides of all urban streets; curb-ramps at intersections; signal timing that allows for slower walking speeds of older adults and mobility impaired; refuge islands provide a safe resting area).

Within the chapter on pedestrians there is a section on accessibility (Section 21.5.5). This section includes information about various types of disabilities; ADA/ADAAG requirements for sidewalks, ramps, curb cuts, street furniture, and the location and design of pedestrian signals; and the dangers/barriers caused by work zones.

There are some illustrations and photos showing crosswalk markings, signs for pedestrian crossings and playgrounds, multi-use trails, mid-block crossings, sidewalks, street corners and a retail center without pedestrian connections.

Number of Pages:

1000

Table of Contents?

Yes

Index?

Yes

Illustrations?

Yes (Photographs, Line Drawing)

Material Type:

Book

Key Document?

Categories:

National Standards, Policy, Educational Materials; Planning and Design

Keywords:

Transportation Engineering, Transportation Design

Record Last Updated:

July 2006