COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF RATHFARNHAM AREA COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
HEADED ITEM NO. 12
HEADED ITEM: Roads Department
REPORT ON TRAFFIC SIGNAL WARRANTS
The attached report deals with the method of assessment that this local authority utilises when considering requests for the installation of signal controlled pedestrian crossings and signal controlled junctions on the existing road network. The framework for this assessment follows the National Roads Authority publications:
- RT 181, geometric design guidelines (intersections at grade)
- RT 206, Warrants for pedestrian crossing facilities
Of special interest is the provision of pedestrian crossings.
Frequently requests for the installation of pedestrian crossings are received. Careful consideration is then given to the benefits associated with the provision of the crossing and associated hazards. In all cases the convenience of drivers and pedestrians is always secondary to their safety. Over provision of signal control equipment especially in the case of pedestrian crossings will lead to a diminution of their effectiveness and fail to provide a safer crossing.
For the provision of a pedestrian crossing a study into the conflict between the vehicle and pedestrian movements is carried out. This indicates the scarcity of suitable gaps in traffic available to pedestrians to cross and if a suitable demand for a crossing exists. Wider or faster roads will require larger gaps in traffic for pedestrians to cross.
Locations with reoccurring and similar accidents will also indicate the need for reviewing a location for the provision of a pedestrian crossing or junctions signals.
It is also noted what type of pedestrians (school going / under 16 in appearance or adult) in order to assess if the requirements can be better dealt with by the use of a school warden. However this is usually apparent in the first instant.