STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Transportation & Infrastructure
AGENDA DATE: October 26, 2022
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): All
DEPARTMENT: Department of Transportation
EXECUTIVE: Dr. Robert Perez
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SUBJECT
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An ordinance amending Chapter 28, "Motor Vehicles and Traffic," of the Dallas City Code by adding Section 28-61.1. "Standing and Walking in Certain Areas Prohibited" (1) prohibiting standing and walking on medians measuring six feet or less in width, where no medians exist, or in an area designated as a clear zone; (2) providing a penalty not to exceed $500.00; (3) providing a saving clause; (4) providing a severability clause; and (5) providing an effective date - Financing: This action has no cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
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BACKGROUND
On June 8, 2022, City Council approved the Vision Zero Plan by Resolution No. 22-0865. The plan showed that the vast majority of pedestrian fatalities occur when the pedestrian enters the roadway at a point that is not designated for crossing or standing. While only 2% of Dallas residents use walking as their mode of transportation, pedestrians account for 30% of traffic fatalities.
The U.S. Department of Transportation, American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials, National Association of City Transportation Officials, and Section 4.3.5 of the City of Dallas Street Design Manual recommend a minimum median width of six feet for a median to be used as a pedestrian refuge. Additionally, Section 4.3.5 of the City of Dallas Street Design Manual also states items typically found in the median area, including pedestrian refuge, should be located to provide at least 3-feet of clearance from the outermost edge of structure to back of curb. The Texas Department of Transportation recommends an area of four feet from the face of the curb for curbed roadways, or 10 feet from the edge of a travel lane for non-curbed roadways, to be fre...
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