This summer, Portland Trails is leading street demonstrations to improve pedestrian safety on three of Portland's streets.
These demonstrations are on Brighton Ave, Danforth St, and Diamond St (see maps below for exact locations). These locations were identified as dangerous by neighborhood organizations, whose members are partnering on the projects, and local businesses. Neighbors and business owners have observed high speeds and poor pedestrian safety at these locations.
What are the goals?
These are temporary installations that are designed to slow traffic and draw drivers' attention to the crosswalks. Each street now features painted curb extensions and vertical bollards. These give the impression of a narrower lane – without actually changing the width at all – which naturally slows drivers down. When drivers are going more slowly, they are more likely to see and stop for pedestrians waiting to cross.
In one of our studies of these intersections, we found that one pedestrian at a Brighton Ave. crosswalk waited for 24 cars to pass before one stopped!
Additionally, Diamond St has temporary speed bumps to slow cars at the intersection with the Bayside Trail. With the help of volunteers, we have also painted multicolored dots on the asphalt to act as a makeshift sidewalk for pedestrians.
An installation on Brighton Ave with curb extensions and reflective bollards.
A similar installation on Diamond St featuring colorful dots to help guide pedestrians.
How does it work?
We know that drivers are responding to their environment. We also know that speed limit signs are not enough to change behavior. When we improve the road design, we're sending subliminal signals to drivers to reduce their speed. That increases the safety of our streets for all users.
What happens next?
Speed and yield studies will be collected throughout the duration of these demonstrations. Once they are complete later this fall, all data will be shared with the City of Portland, who will manage any permanent design changes to these streets and intersections.
Thank you to our partners
