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Global Street Design Guide Resources Appendix Assumptions for Intersection Dimensions
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Global Street Design Guide

Assumptions for Intersection Dimensions

Assumptions for Intersection Dimensions

The streets illustrated in this guide show a range of conditions. Due to limited space, dimensions have not been annotated. The following diagrams represent some of the assumed dimension ranges in the illustrations. Basic  widths, spacing, slopes, and turning radii correspond to the Designing for People, Streets, and Intersections chapters.

 

 

Corner Radii

Minimize corner radii to slow turning vehicles, keep intersections compact, and ensure safe, pedestrian-friendly spaces. Corner radii in urban areas can be as small as 0.6 m.

Green Infrastructure

Include green infrastructure strategies in the furniture zone of the sidewalk, in curb extensions, or in medians.

Accessibility Ramps

Design accessibility ramps at each crossing. These should be placed at 90 degrees to the path of movement and should not exceed a slope of 1:10.

Curb Extensions

Add where possible to shorten crossing distances, improve visibility, and provide additional waiting space for pedestrians, space for transit shelters, vendors, or green infrastructure.

Transit Stops and Shelters

Ensure accessible walking paths are maintained on sidewalks. The space between the structure and the curb edge should allow for  accessible transit boarding. Space shelters 3 m from intersections.

Cycle-Protected Intersection

Provide physical separation for cyclists at intersections where possible. Continue markings through intersection to alert drivers and  cyclists of potential conflict zone.

Cycle Boxes

When cycle-protected intersections cannot be included, use advanced stop cycle boxes to allow cyclists a safe and visible way to  move ahead of queuing traffic when stopped at a red light.

Sidewalks

Ensure sidewalks maintain a continuous and unobstructed clear path of 2.4 m (absolute minimum 1.8 m) to allow two wheelchairs to comfortably pass each other.

Pedestrian Crossings

Ensure pedestrian crossings align with the pedestrian clear path and are clearly marked to indicate safe places to cross.

Pedestrian Refuge Islands

Provide spaces for pedestrians to wait when crossing more then two or three lanes of moving traffic. These places should be the  same width as the marked crossings and be 2.4 m deep to safely allow people to wait.

Adapted by Global Street Design Guide published by Island Press.