Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan - sacog

icyclists. Excessive speed is the cause of many serious traffic incidents involving bicyclists and
pedestrians. Therefore, it is important to minimize excessive speed and incorporate traffic-calming
methods for urban/main street arterial traffic. Traffic-calming is the combination of primarily
physical measures that reduce the negative effects of motor-vehicle use, alter driver behavior, and
improve conditions for non-motorized street users. 23 Traffic calming measures create a safe and
comfortable environment for all users by slowing motor-vehicle speed, and reducing cut-through
motor-vehicle traffic, thus reducing collision frequency and severity. 24 These measures also increase
access for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The four main types of measures are:
• Vertical deflections
• Horizontal shifts
• Roadway narrowings
• Closures
The first three are intended to reduce speed and enhance the street environment for non-motorists.
Examples of these include speed humps, traffic circles, and center island narrowing. 25 Closures,
such as diagonal diverters, half closures, full closures, and median barriers, are intended to reduce
cut-through traffic by obstructing traffic movements in one or more directions. 26 Traffic calming
measures should be implemented with consultation of public transit and emergency service
providers to minimize impacts on access and services.
A.4.2 Lighting 27
Security for bicyclists requires attention to design details such as trail, path, and sidewalk lighting.
Lighting is important for safe, comfortable bicycle and pedestrian travel. Inadequate or non-existent
lighting may discourage potential bicycling or walking trips, and increase concerns about the
potential for criminal activity. Adequate lighting illuminates walkways and impediments, such as
uneven surfaces or debris, improves safety, and therefore is an essential component of bicycle and
pedestrian facilities.
A.4.3 Landscaping 28
Trees are an important amenity, which enhances the bicycle and pedestrian environment. They are a
necessity in the Sacramento region where hot weather is common many months of the year, and
should be selected to provide shade. Landscaping also increases roadway safety by providing a
buffer between traffic and pedestrians, and may cause motorists to slow down. It has also been
shown that landscaping helps increase pavement life, and contributes to improvements in air and
water pollution. When landscaping is included, it should be open and airy to promote good visibility.
23 Lockwood, Ian. ITE Traffic Calming Definition. ITE Journal, July 1997, pg. 22.
24 Ibid
25 Institute of Transportation Engineers Traffic Calming Website, http://www.ite.org/traffic/index.html
26 Ibid
27 California Blueprint for Bicycling and Walking. May 2002
28 Ibid
Regional Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trails Master Plan Amended June, 2011 A-10