Gig Harbor discusses high-visibility "piano key" crosswalks for 30 Eighth Avenue project

Gig Harbor staff asked the City Council during the Jan. 30 study session to allow a variance from the city's stamped-concrete crosswalk standard so the 30 Eighth Avenue Phase 2 corridor project can use high-visibility thermoplastic markings, commonly called "piano key" crosswalks.

The request came as the city nears final design of the roundabout at 56th and 38th and as staff weigh whether to keep the city's existing stamped red-concrete crosswalks or adopt the newer state and federal guidance for longitudinal high-visibility markings. "The new standard ... has been shown to increase the reaction time by drivers, and they're able to be seen faster," said Stephanie, a city transportation staff member presenting photos of nearby roundabouts to the council.

City Public Works Director Jeff said the project is at about 90% design and staff are trying to finalize crosswalk details. Stephanie showed street-view images comparing stamped concrete crosswalks and high-visibility longitudinal bars; she and staff said the high-visibility markings are distinguishable from a longer distance and may help slow approaching vehicles on higher-speed approaches to the roundabout. Staff also proposed adding midblock crossings where school buses stop on 38th Avenue.

Council members and residents raised related traffic-calming options. Council member Roger noted that painted markings eventually wear and said the physical design of approaches encourages speeding. Council member Jenny and other speakers asked about raised crosswalks and ADA implications; staff said raised crosswalks would require scope changes and add cost because the project is at 90% design. A resident and several council members said raised crosswalks can signal a pedestrian'oriented zone and slow drivers, but staff said changes that would add traffic-calming geometry would alter the project scope and budget.

Staff described maintenance concerns for stamped concrete (tire rubber and dirt can reduce contrast) and said the stamped pattern can be confusing for people with low vision. To minimize tradeoffs, one council member suggested combining high-visibility thermoplastic bars with the stamped-concrete look to preserve the city's "village" aesthetic while improving visibility.

Council did not vote on the crosswalk type at the study session. Staff said the variance request and recommended language for the public works standards will be returned for council consideration, and that the broader public works standards update later this year would address whether the city maintains both crosswalk options and when each is appropriate.

The council discussion stressed pedestrian safety near the new roundabout and at school bus stops on 38th Avenue, the constraints posed by project scope and budget at 90% design, and the need to balance visual character with proven safety improvements.