Drivers and other road users such as people cycling should be able to see crossings easily so they can adjust their speed and be aware of the potential for pedestrians to step into the roadway.
Crossings should be conspicuous and enable road users to predict the route of pedestrians or other users who are about to move into the roadway.
Overdimension load transport is also an issue in designing pedestrian crossing points, especially on routes designated as overdimension routes. These routes require a ‘design envelope’ 10m wide x 6m high as per the Waka Kotahi Bridge Manual. If the wider envelope of 11.5m wide and 6.5m high[1] can be accommodated this is preferred by the Heavy Haulage Association. Islands should have mountable kerbs and load bearing surfaces, with signs, poles and rails that can be conveniently removed or folded at ground level. Where the road edge protrudes into the ‘design envelope’ such as at kerb protrusions, road furniture, signs, poles and other objects should be less than one metre high or be conveniently removed or folded over.
Design and operational considerations for other road users that are specific to certain crossing types are outlined in the relevant sections.
[1] New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association. (2019). Road design specifications for overdimension loads(external link)
