Sidewalk Zones

In an urban context streets and their sidewalks are important in handling significant vehicle and pedestrian traffic that are found within close proximity. This corresponding exhibit breaks down the street R.O.W. into functional zones and provides definition for the roles the functional zones play.

Sidewalk Buffer

Seating should be located outside of door swing zones if adjacent to parking.

Temporary signage or displays may be located in the frontage zone, provided they do not impede the pedestrian throughway.

Additional landscaping may be added. Use tree grates to maintain an accessible throughway. Trees should be a priority as they provide shade and help reduce heat island effect.

Parallel parking takes up a smaller amount of the R.O.W allowing for larger sidewalk zone. Additionally, on-street parking is an important buffer between pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Overhead elements, such as awnings, canopies, balconies, or signage are acceptable in the pedestrian throughway, provided they meet the clearance requirements for unimpeded movement. Enhancement zones are not limited to planting beds, they can be used as areas for respite or to support nearby business.

Frontage zones may include areas that are not in the street R.O.W. The spaces can be used for seating, dining, merchandising, etc. With limited sidewalk room, these spaces are vital to providing street life.

While angled parking provides more overall parking spaces, it consumes more area, reducing opportunities for landscaping, site furnishings, and other amenities. Large planting breaks can be used to reduce this impact.

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D C B A

Frontage Zone Pedestrian Throughway

Street Furniture/ Curb Zone

Parking/ Enhancement Zone

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A. Parking/Enhancement Zone The portion of the R.O.W used for accommodating on-street parking, landscaping, stormwater facilities, bicycle facilities, or seating areas.

Roadway Buffer

A

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Sidewalk

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C D

Travel Lanes

Parking/ Enhancement Zone Pedestrian Throughway

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B. Street Furniture/Curb Zone The portion of the sidewalk where landscaping, seating, bicycle parking, lighting/utility poles, and other R.O.W. amenities are found. C. Pedestrian Throughway The portion of the sidewalk the provides unimpeded circulation to the block. This space should be 5-12 feet determined by the built environment context.

Frontage Zone

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D. Frontage Zone The building wall and directly adjacent area that provides an interaction and engagement to the pedestrian realm.