Protected intersection

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Groningen Grote Markt 1975 Museum Exhibit

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Protected intersection features

Cyclops junction design

Protected intersection is a design strategy used in cycling infrastructure to improve the safety and efficiency of intersections for bicyclists and pedestrians. This design separates cyclists and pedestrians from motor vehicle traffic, reducing the potential for conflicts and collisions. Protected intersections are a key component of sustainable urban planning and are increasingly being implemented in cities around the world to promote safer and more accessible cycling environments.

Design Features

The core features of a protected intersection include:

• Corner Safety Islands: These are raised islands located at the corners of an intersection, providing a physical barrier between cyclists/pedestrians and motor vehicles. They also shorten the crossing distance for pedestrians.
• Forward Stop Lines: For cyclists, forward stop lines are positioned ahead of motor vehicle stop lines, increasing the visibility of cyclists to drivers and giving cyclists a head start when the light turns green.
• Dedicated Bicycle Signals: Traffic signals specifically for bicycles can regulate the flow of cyclists separately from motor vehicles, reducing conflicts.
• Separated Cycle Tracks: Cycle tracks leading up to and away from the intersection are physically separated from motor vehicle lanes, enhancing safety for cyclists.
• Crossing Setbacks: The bicycle crossing is set back from the motor vehicle crossing, improving the angle of visibility between motorists turning right and cyclists going straight.

Benefits

Protected intersections offer numerous benefits, including:

• Increased Safety: By physically separating cyclists and pedestrians from motor vehicle traffic, the risk of collisions is significantly reduced.
• Improved Traffic Flow: The design can improve the overall flow of traffic by reducing conflicts and delays caused by motor vehicles yielding to cyclists and pedestrians.
• Enhanced Accessibility: Making cycling safer and more comfortable encourages more people to choose biking as a mode of transportation, which can reduce road congestion and environmental impact.
• Better Connectivity: Protected intersections are often part of a larger network of bike lanes and paths, improving the connectivity and usability of cycling infrastructure.

Implementation Challenges

Despite their benefits, implementing protected intersections can present challenges, such as:

• Space Requirements: Protected intersections require more space than traditional intersections, which can be a constraint in densely built urban areas.
• Cost: The construction and redesign of intersections into protected formats can be costly, requiring significant investment from local governments.
• Public Acceptance: Changes to road layouts and traffic flow can sometimes meet with resistance from the public and stakeholders accustomed to car-centric infrastructure.

Examples

Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen have long been pioneers in cycling infrastructure and have numerous protected intersections. In the United States, cities such as Portland, Oregon, and San Francisco, California, have begun to adopt this design, recognizing its benefits for cyclist and pedestrian safety.

Conclusion

Protected intersections represent a significant advancement in the design of urban infrastructure to support cycling and walking. By prioritizing the safety and comfort of non-motorized road users, these intersections play a crucial role in promoting sustainable transportation and creating more livable cities.

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