Implication of pedestrians׳ stated preference of certain attributes of crosswalks

Abstract

Pedestrians in Tanzania face many problems when crossing roads, including safety and convenience, which discourage the use of this important mode of transport. This study was aimed at determining pedestrians׳ preferences of environmental and infrastructural attributes of crosswalks in order to improve the utility of the facilities and mode by promoting elements preferred by the majority of pedestrians. The survey involved interviewing pedestrians and the results indicated that the majority prefer to cross on level ground and medians, with females and younger pedestrians more willing to use non-level crossings. The most preferred viable options for controlling vehicles׳ speed and the crosswalk were humps on either side of the crossing and the use of signals (especially on higher class roads), respectively. The majority considered safety to be the most desirable improvement with females and those on utilitarian trips most in support. Also, pedestrians׳ preference of attributes in relation to different road classes highly agrees with current design principles. It was found that gender, age of pedestrian, purpose of trip and road class affect pedestrian preference and if considered in the planning and design of crossing facilities, they can result in improved safety, convenience and use of this Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) mode.