Agenda - Council - 10/08/1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I PAVEMENT MA RKI_NG S CHAPTER. I I ,I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I This Iow cost use of painted lane markings is a very simple at. tempt to change the pattern of driver behavior on any roadway, but par- ticularly on collector or minor arterials. TI-ds concept utilize~ the painted lane line to develop a park. ing reservoir and, in turn, creates the impression of a narrowed road- way, even if parked vehicles are not present. It is generally used where the roadway width is greater th~m one lane, parking is allowed, and no lane is pi'esent. Effects Volumes. It is Very urdikely that any reduc- tion in volume Would be realized because, in reality, the capa6ity is not reached. Speed. The impression of a reduced roadway width does appear to affect drivers in a man- ner that tends to slow them down. The reduc- tion may not be dramatic, but it is a noticeable improvement. Traffic Noise, Air Quality and Energy Con- sumpfion. As ~he level of speeding and potential hazardous driving is reduced, an accompanying reduction in noise is possible. However, there shou/d not be high expecta- t-ions for major reductions in noise levels. Air quality or energY consumption improve- ments are not expected. · Traffic Safety. The use of the painted l/ne to delineate the parking area not only creates the knpression of a narrowed roadway reducing speed, but also discourages vehicles from driving: in or along the parking[ lane (especial- ly when parked vehicles are not present). This, in turn, reduces the frequency of at- tempts to pass on the right, use of the parking lane as a thru lane, and other hazardous action by irresponsible drivers. The net result is fewer lane conflicts, more defined driving patterns, and reduced potential for accidents of the pedestrian, passing on right, sideswipe, and parked vehicle variety. Community Reaction. General/y speaking, the reactions have been very positive. This application is low cost, easy to do, involves no construction and does not have negative im- pacts on the adjacent property owners. Neighborhoods have indicated that driving patterns have improved and speeds are reduced. Only complaints (from drivers) have been that traffic moves slower thru the Additional Considerations The use of pavement markings may denote a major street. Case Study The City of Minneapolis has used ti'ds applica- tion on two collector roadways in residential areas (Portland Avenue South and Sunset Blvd.) with the result being a better charmel- /zed vehicle flow and reduced speeds. There has not been adequate time to evaluate impact on accidents. Reference Improving the Residential Street Environmentt May 1981/FHWA Neighborhood Traffic Control January 1994