Title
Consideration of the Installation of Decorative Crosswalks at the Parrott/Washington Intersection
Staffreport
The matter of installing a rainbow crosswalk has been mentioned and discussed very generally in San Leandro in recent years.
Staff was recently asked to look at possible locations for a rainbow crosswalk to be installed in the Downtown area, utilizing the following considerations: alignment of the intersection, asphalt condition, and whether decorative treatments were already in place. Staff initially focused on the intersection of East 14th Street and Joaquin Avenue, when crosswalk improvements were already planned and funded. Unfortunately, Caltrans design standards precluded installation at that location.
After reviewing several other locations outside of Caltrans jurisdiction, the intersection of Parrott Street and Washington Avenue was deemed appropriate. (See Figure 1 of the attachment) The existing crosswalks are not skewed and the intersection is generally 90 degrees on each approach - unlike Thornton/Washington, which is dog-legged. The asphalt in the intersection is in fair condition and currently there are no decorative markings such as are in place at the W. Juana/Washington intersection to the north. In addition, this intersection acts as one of two formal entry points to the City's Farmers' Market events, making it a focal point for the area. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Section 3B.18 Crosswalks has the following 'Standard':
"When crosswalk lines are used, they shall consist of solid white lines that mark the crosswalk."
Further, Section 3G.01 General provides the following 'Guidance':
"Colored pavement located between crosswalk lines should not use colors or patterns that degrade the contrast of white crosswalk lines, or that might be mistaken by road users as a traffic control application."
The Federal Highway Administration is silent on the matter, referring to MUTCD standards.
Based on the note...
Click here for full text