Raise Crosswalks to Sidewalk Height

Raising crosswalks to the height of surrounding sidewalks has the dual purpose of making pedestrians feel safer and slowing down cars. Psychologically it increases the continuity of walking. Physically it acts as an extended speed bump for cars. This could be used in conjunction with the pedestrian flashers at crossings that are already popping up mid-block on busy streets across Atlanta. The US FHWA prepared an explanation. This includes cost estimates and other figures.

One example where the beltline crosses Lake/ Irwin

• Makes pedestrians more visible and forces cars to slow down

  • Reduce pedestrian crashes by 45%

• Works best on 2-3 lane streets with speed limits ~30 MPH (think promenades in master plan)

  • Or across the entrance to a minor street from a major street