Traffic control devices (TCDs, i.e. signs, markings, traffic signals, delineators) can be subject to change and evolution, often based on observed practices elsewhere in the world. This may require testing of the new TCD under various situations in NZ before their acceptance here.
We are heavily involved in undertaking formal trials and other operational research regarding new and innovative TCDs and layouts in NZ, including observation surveys and perception studies.
Waka Kotahi commissioned ViaStrada to undertake research on quick-build (interim) cycleway infrastructure. Some of New Zealand’s Road Controlling Authorities (RCAs) are responding to the imperatives of the Road to Zero strategy, the Climate Change Emergency Declaration, and emissions reduction planning by reallocating road space and supporting mode shift to cycling. The Innovating Streets programme of 2020/21 led to the rollout of several demonstration (1 day to 1 month), pilot (1 month to 1 year) and interim (5+ year) cycleways.
The NZ Transport Agency commissioned ViaStrada to formally trial two "Barnes Dance" shared pedestrian/cycle crossings along SH1 in Dunedin, including preparation of trial application documents and design as well as analysis of the observational and perception surveys.
A formal Traffic Control Device trial of directional cycle signals has been approved for four locations; two in Christchurch and two in Auckland.
Directional cycle signals incorporate an arrow with the cycle symbol within the signal. This enables separate control of multiple cycle movements from one approach. It is particularly useful to provide for a diagonal or right turn cycle movement during different phases to the straight through and left turn movements.
ViaStrada has been commissioned by VicRoads to undertake research on physical bicycle lane separators. Undertaking the trials included site selection, design of the empirical study and evaluation of the results. The aim of the study is to establish whether the devices are safe for all road users and effective in reducing the occurrence of drivers utilising the cycle lane. The separators are shown in Figures 1 & 2.
ViaStrada was commissioned by Waimakariri District Council (WDC) to investigate and quantify the pedestrian activity at five locations on Williams Street in Kaiapoi town centre between Hilton Street and Charles Street. ViaStrada engaged Lowdown Data to undertake pedestrian and motor vehicle turning counts using video collection units. This technology allows the client to gather survey information at low cost. This survey technique also obtained queue lengths at the Hilton Street and Charles Street roundabouts to inform design options.
Between 2001 and 2005, 689 red light crashes were recorded in Auckland. An analysis of red light running crashes at thirteen intersections in the central city resulted in an estimated social cost of around $12.5 million, or nearly $1 million per intersection over five years. New Zealand Police and Auckland City Council agreed to undertake a red light camera pilot project.
Lorraine and Jon have been out and about on Banks Peninsula recording the road markings, one way bridge priorities and other traffic control devices.
When Banks Peninsula District Council was amalgamated with Christchurch City Council, it was difficult to reconcile some of the traffic resolutions with the markings and traffic controls on the road, and other records were difficult to find.
