Complete Streets Elements in Delaware County, PA

Textured Crosswalks | Bump-outs

Textured crosswalks are street crossings which use stamp concrete, pavers or other treatments to add a different feel and appearance to the street. This type of crosswalk provides a unique aesthetic for complete streets, adding to the character while also providing a clear space for pedestrians. This surface also raises the awareness of drivers and encourages them to reduce speeds and look for potential conflicts.

Bump-outs extend the curb into the street narrowing the travel lane. They can also be used at intersections to encourage cars to slow as they make a turn. Bump-outs help calm traffic while reducing the crossing distance for pedestrians thus improving safety. This type of design tool also provide opportunities to include green stormwater infrastructure and greenery in their design.

Bike Lanes

Bike lanes are a roadway device which designates space for cyclists while also helping to reduce traffic speeds by narrowing lane widths for vehicles and providing a safe space for bicycles. The bike lane pictured to the right is a buffered bike lane which provides a designated gap between the bike lane and the road to better protect bicyclists from higher speed traffic.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts provide continuous circulation while reducing vehicle speeds at intersections leading to less potential conflicts between vehicles while also providing pedestrian and cyclist accommodations around the roundabout. This complete streets design element also provides a space for place making, greenery and signage. 

Road Diets

Road Diets reduce the number of lanes or lane widths to calm traffic. This traffic reduction tool can be used to "right size" roads that have been overbuilt and provide safety benefits by reducing speeds. Road diets should include elements for pedestrians and bicyclists, such as sidewalks or bike lanes. They also provide an opportunity for communities to re-envision a streetscape and create a space better suited for a wide range of users.

Pedestrian Alert Signals

Pedestrian Alert Signals make vehicles aware of crossing pedestrians by using flashing lights and signs. Signals are often accompanied by other street treatments including crosswalks and yield arrows to alert drivers ahead of the crossing area.

Neckdowns

Neckdowns narrow lanes typically in a midblock area to slow traffic. Also called ‘pinchpoints’, these encourage drivers to slow down and can provide space for pedestrians to cross as well as provide areas for green infrastructure or signage. The Neckdown pictured, has been installed as a pilot project or temporary installation until a permanent installation can be made.

Sidewalks

Sidewalks provide safe spaces for pedestrians on streets and should be well maintained with minimal gaps, cracks, or lifted areas. Sidewalks should be connected to a larger network of other sidewalks to provide options for safe pedestrian travel throughout a community.

Bus Shelters

Bus Shelters provide space for riders to wait safely from the elements and from traffic. Well placed Bus shelters should be connected to a sidewalk network and be centrally located. Shelters can also include bike racks, lighting and plantings in their footprint.