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Engineers advise targeted approach for mid‑block crossings; costs and data limit citywide sweep
Summary
Traffic consultant advised the committee that mid‑block marked crossings without engineering often increase risk; staff said full citywide studies are costly and recommended targeted, prioritized engineering paired with temporary pilots.
Keizer’s committee heard that mid‑block marked crosswalks must be used selectively and often need supporting infrastructure such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RFBs) or signal changes to be safe.
“On lower‑speed, lower‑volume streets you have more flexibility than marking crosswalks,” said Scott Anser of DKS Associates, who recommended engineering evaluation based on pedestrian counts, vehicle volumes and speeds. He warned that “a poorly placed marked crosswalk can make a situation more dangerous.” Anser estimated data collection costs of about $500–$700 per location and said complete installation with ADA ramps can push a single crossing project toward “probably close to $150,000” when construction is included.
Committee members discussed whether to fund a full citywide study or to adopt a case‑by‑case approach, and staff suggested leveraging ongoing Transportation System Plan (TSP) work funded in part by ODOT to cover collector and arterial priorities while testing pilots on smaller streets. The group urged staff to return with a prioritization framework and cost estimates.
