Transportation officials are standing at a crossroads, with the power to blend safe and effective mobility with the crucial role streets have as public spaces. The key? Embracing an approach that’s backed by hard science and accommodates the diverse travel modes of modern citizens.
A Historical Perspective on Traffic Engineering
Reflecting on a battle over the Williamsburg Bridge repair in the 1980s, veteran New York transportation engineer Sam Schwartz chose to repair rather than replace the bridge. This decision not only saved the bridge but also preserved the surrounding neighborhoods, challenging the prevailing traffic-engineering theories of the time that wider and obstruction-free lanes were inherently safer—despite evidence to the contrary.
Questioning Wide Lane Safety Theories
For decades, traffic engineers have designed urban roads based on the assumption that wider lanes are safer, often overlooking the negative impact this has on other street uses like walking, biking, and socializing. However, a series of studies refuted this, with findings showing that obstacles and narrower lanes can actually encourage more cautious driving and enhance safety.
Emerging Theories in Traffic Engineering
Road safety doesn’t have to be achieved at the expense of community vitality and street life. New theories emphasize the concept of "forgiving design," which has been shown to lead to higher accidents in dense areas. Instead, obstacles and tighter lanes are now understood to create safer urban environments.
Revising Current Practices
Recent initiatives like context-sensitive solutions (CSS) and Complete Streets have started to change the landscape of street design. Yet, the core philosophy needs a complete overhaul to truly reflect the new science advocating for multi-use, restrictive street designs that prioritize community space and safety over vehicle speed.
Fostering Urban and Suburban Community through Complete Streets
For areas seeking walkability and cohesive communities, employing the principles of Complete Streets as a standard rather than an option is essential. Traffic professionals must move beyond mere additions to existing wide streets and fundamentally rethink street dimensions and designs, in line with the new theories.
The Social and Economic Impact of Street Design
Well-designed streets aren't just safer—they're also social and economic catalysts. By promoting higher land values and attracting younger generations seeking walkable communities, municipalities can experience significant growth. Hence, it's crucial to discard outdated engineering standards in favor of the new science.
Education and Policy Reform in Traffic Engineering
The shift to a new theory in traffic engineering demands thorough comprehension, re-education, and policy reforms. By expanding their knowledge on the multifunctional nature of streets and their impact on communities, traffic engineers can better explain the trade-offs of various design approaches and lead the way in creating safer, more livable urban environments.
Conclusion: Travel and the Evolution of Streets
The evolution of street design plays a pivotal role in shaping travel experiences. As cities reinvent their thoroughfares to fit the new science of traffic engineering, visitors can anticipate enhanced mobility, safety, and more engaging urban landscapes. This shift not only benefits residents but also promises a richer experience for travelers exploring the dynamic public spaces and charming walkways our cities offer, culminating in an enriched sense of place that can become as memorable as any itinerary or hotel stay.