Raised Median Islands and Pedestrian Safety

Originally presented on May 30, 2012, 1:00-2:30 PM EST

Crossing the street – especially at locations with multiple lanes – can be a complex task for many pedestrians. Raised median islands and pedestrian refuge areas provide proven solution to these crossings at both midblock and intersection locations.

This webinar discussed design considerations for raised median islands, addressed barriers to implementing these countermeasures, and present case studies of agencies that have been using these treatments to improve pedestrian safety.

Charlie Zegeer, of the UNC Highway Safety Research Center, presented design considerations for raised median islands and discuss research findings related to their effectiveness in improving pedestrian safety. Sheila Lyons, of the Oregon Department of Transportation, discussed how the agency has installed dozens of median islands to assist pedestrians and bicyclists across state and local roadways. Gary Sokolow, of the Florida Department of Transportation, presented the history of Florida’s Restrictive Median Policy, which has been implemented since the early 1990s and requires essentially all new multilane arterials to include median islands. Finally, Jack Ecklund, of the City of University Place in Washington, provided a local perspective on the use of raised median islands and their benefits.

The presenters also participated in a question and answer session to discuss how to address barriers to median implementation, and answer questions from the attendees.

Presented by:

  • Charlie Zegeer, UNC Highway Safety Research Center
  • Sheila Lyons, Oregon Department of Transportation
  • Gary Sokolow, Florida Department of Transportation
  • Jack Ecklund, City of University Place

Webinar Resources: