to high traffic volumes .
• Refuge islands should be considered at locations where slower pedestrians are commonplace , or where it is difficult to cross more than one direction of traffic during one pedestrian crossing phase .
• Refuge islands should be considered to help reduce vehicle speeds or to make pedestrian crossings more visible to motorists .
• Refuge islands should be considered as a location for landscaping and visual enhancements .
Figure 7.41.7 . Median refuge island with pedestrian signage at intersection .
Figure 7.41.8 . Refuge island with pedestrian activated signalization at intersection .
F . Pedestrian Signals
There are a variety of possible traffic signal enhancement opportunities that can greatly improve the safety and flow of pedestrian traffic . A pedestrian activated signal may be warranted where the expected number of people needing to cross a roadway at a particular location is significant . Pedestrian signals are often
combined with other traffic calming devices to ensure pedestrian safety is maintained when crossing a street . The preferred location for pedestrian signals are at intersections where pedestrian crossings are common . Sight-distance must be adequate to ensure that motorists will see the light in time to stop . Warning signs should be installed at warranted locations ( Figure 7.41.9 ).
Design Criteria :
• Signals must meet City of Arlington standards .
• Adequate and proper signage , markings , clear zone , and lighting are required to allow motorists time to see the pedestrian signal .
• Countdown signals are required for all new signal installations . If existing countdown signals already exist , they must meet the provisions established ( in 2003 ) by MUTCD , indicating that by 2013 , any hardware that does not meet the standards will need to be replaced . With the adoption of special provisions in the 2009 MUTCD , any new countdowns installed from now forward must meet not only hardware requirements , but the new requirement that any new replacement pedestrian signals being installed must include countdowns unless the pedestrian change interval ( flashing upraised hand ) is 7 seconds or less ( Figure 7.41.9 ).
• Proper signal timing intervals and timing needs should be adapted to the given situation .
• Large pedestrian signals should be utilized on larger roads to ensure readability .
• Pedestrian signal push buttons should be well signed and visible .
Figure 7.41.9 . Examples of typical pedestrian crossing signal and countdown signal .
Chapter 7 : Design Guidelines | 7-13