Bicycles/Pedestrians

Safety Toolbox: Overview of interventions

Creating a safe environment for bicyclists and pedestrians requires a comprehensive strategy, encompassing the "Three Es" plus community involvement.

Education and community involvement

Information-sharing and awareness raising, targeting drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists about the safest, best ways to share the road.  Education may take place at the community level through after-school programs at recreation centers or it may be aimed at a wider audience through billboards or utility bill inserts.  Many education methods involve an element of community participation, as they are volunteer-based. As a result, education can be an inexpensive means to improve safety.

Engineering

Physical measures constructed to create safer conditions for cyclists and pedestrians.  Engineering measures can be expensive but effective, especially from a user's perspective. They range from basic improvements such as curb ramps to innovative technologies used in pedestrian and bicycle signalization.

Enforcement

Targeted police enforcement supports neighborhood and community goals for improving safety.  Enforcement tools can require a significant investment from local agencies. Newer tools like red-light running cameras and radar 'wagons' can minimize the amount of staff time required of local law enforcement agencies.