Roadway Reconfigurations

Purpose

To reduce the speed of traffic, crossing distances for pedestrians, and/or provide additional space for other elements or uses of the roadway.

Description

Reducing the number of lanes, the width of lanes (lane width reductions), repurposing lanes, or all three. Eliminating a travel or turn lane can make room for a bicycle lane, wider sidewalks, median islands, curb extensions, on street parking, transit lane, landscaping, or other uses.

Safety Objectives and Benefits

Increase space for pedestrian, bicycle, transit, or other infrastructure needs.
May reduce the number of potential conflict points.
May reduce vehicle speeds.
May reduce crossing distances by eliminating a lane or through provision of a pedestrian median island.
Before/after evaluations in Arlington showed an average 6% decrease in 85^th percentile speeds after roadway reconfigurations were installed.

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

All streets except Controlled Access Highways.

Other Location Guidance

Multi-lane roads may be eligible for lane reconfiguration.
Prioritize streets with key pedestrian and bicyclist routes.

Primary User Groups

All users: pedestrians, bicyclists, scooters, cars, buses, motorcycles, large trucks/vehicles.

Key Implementation Considerations

For lane removals, an analysis must be performed to determine the operational and safety effects of lane reductions on all users.
Consider bus stop locations and operations in consultation with transit providers.
Consolidating travel lanes may increase congestion.
Minimum lane widths and building access must be maintained for emergency vehicle access and buses.
Lane width reduction is often implemented in part with the County's programmatic roadway repaving effort.
Public engagement required.

Expected Crash Reduction

47% for all crashes in suburban areas (Persaud et al. 2010).

29% for all crashes in urban areas (Pawlovich et al. 2006).

Cost

Lane restriping projects vary in cost based on length and complexity. Additional infrastructure varies in cost.

Timeline

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One to three or more years, depending on complexity.

References