Citation

Swan S. Transp. Res. Rec. 1978; 683: 18-20.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The primary objective of this paper is to report on a study to evaluate the safe of the art treatments for use by the disabled. It has been estimated that, at any one time, approximately 4.3 percent of the population has mobility limitations that affect pedestrian behavior. The range of functional mobility limitations varies widely; however, mobility aids, such as handrails and pedestrian ramps, can help several different disabled groups, such as semiambulatory or wheelchair-bound individuals and the visually impaired. The first step of the evaluation process was a discussion among members of a disabled panel about their experiences on crossings and with the use of features associated with crossing situations. This was followed by visits by the disabled panel to crossing facilities that exhibited current treatments. Observation sites were selected so that the panel could experience a variety of common situations.

RESULTS of panel visits to three sites in California--Millbrae Avenue in Millbrae, Mt. Diable Avenue in San Mateo, and Awanhee Avenue in Sunnyvale--are summarized in this paper. From the results of the background research and the three example on-site evaluations, it was concluded that: the disabled are a heterogeneous group who have varied mobility limitations and needs; a combination of treatments is needed to make a facility, truly accessible; motor vehicle-pedestrian overpasses where there are high-speed ramps are generally hostile environments for the disabled; and spiral ramps may be useful in areas where limited land is available, however, a careful design is necessary to ensure accessibility.