Safer Midblock Environments for Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossings

Abstract

The 45-mi multiuse Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail traverses Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun Counties in Northern Virginia and has more than 70 highway crossings. In April 2009, in an attempt to increase safety at two of the crossings, the Virginia Department of Transportation installed zigzag pavement markings in Loudoun County where the W&OD Trail crosses Belmont Ridge Road and Sterling Boulevard. The purpose of this research was to assess the effectiveness of the zigzag pavement markings. “Effectiveness” was defined in three ways: (a) an increase in motorist awareness ahead of the crossing locations, (b) a positive change in motorist attitudes, and (c) a confirmation of motorist understanding of the markings. Motorist awareness was measured by computing the difference in vehicle speeds before and after the installation of the markings. Attitudinal changes were measured through a survey targeting motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists familiar with the markings. Motorist understanding was measured through another survey administered elsewhere in the state that targeted motorists unfamiliar with the zigzag markings in Loudoun County. The study found that the markings installed ahead of the two crossings heightened the awareness of approaching motorists. This finding was evidenced by reduced mean vehicle speeds within the marking zones. Further, the majority of survey respondents indicated an increase in awareness, a change in their driving behavior, and a greater tendency to yield to pedestrians than felt before the installation of the markings. The study also found that motorists had limited understanding of the purpose of the markings.