Traffic calming on arterial roads
Where presented / published:
New Zealand Cycling Conference, September 2001
At the New Zealand Cycling Conference in September 2001, Andrew Macbeth gave a presentation on traffic calming on arterial roads, using examples from his work in Toronto.
While flush medians were commonly used on arterial roads, the presentation showed how these are not always the best option for people walking and cycling. An alternative was to narrow the road on both sides, creating a wider pedestrian boulevard, which improves safety and can also provide landscaping to enhance aesthetics.
Another option showed how arterial roads can be narrowed, from four lanes to two, with adequate capacity for up to 20,000 motor vehicles per day, but with improved or maintained facilities for a variety of users, including cyclists. The conclusion drawn was that where traffic calming reduces speeds, safety is increased, especially for vulnerable road users.
The full presentation can be viewed on our website.
