14.8.3 Pedestrian and Bicyclist Considerations

MUTs have benefits for pedestrians which include a reduction in the number of conflict points and benefits due to two-phase signalization. Pedestrian crossings may be either single-stage (walk signal is timed to allow crossing the entire roadway on a single walk indication) or two-stage (a separate walk signal is used to cross each direction of a divided roadway).
Additional pedestrian crossings may be installed at U-turn crossover locations. With vehicular left-turn lanes removed from the crossing locations, the lengths of crossings for pedestrians can often be reduced compared to a conventional intersection.
Pedestrian Crossings at U-turn Crossover Location ( click in image to see full-size image)
Figure 14-35: Pedestrian Crossings at U-turn Crossover Location
Source: NCHRP Report 948 for Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety at Alternative and
Other Intersection and Interchanges
Bicyclists have three options for navigating a MUT intersection when making a left-turn:
  • Bicyclists making a two-stage left-turn (preferred option):
     Minor street bicyclists approach the intersection on the right and follow the vehicle signal indications. When receiving the green indication, the bicyclists proceed across the intersection and stop in a bicycle turn queue box. When the major street receives a green indication, bicyclists proceed along the major street.
  • Bicyclists follow pedestrian crossing rules (potential option):
     Bicyclists approach the intersection and exit the street to the right and follow the pedestrian (“walk”/”don’t walk”) indications.
  • Bicyclists following vehicle rules (legal but undesirable option):
     Bicyclists approach the intersection on the right and follow the vehicle signal indications. This option is legally permissible, but undesirable.
Ultimately, a thorough site assessment, an assessment of anticipated bicycle and pedestrian volumes, and an assessment of projected origins and destinations for pedestrians and bicyclists should be conducted to determine the preferred method of movement through the MUT.
Figure 14-36
shows the three bicyclist options.
Left-Turn Options for Bicycles ( click in image to see full-size image)
Figure 14-36: Left-Turn Options for Bicycles
Source: FHWA MUT Informational Guide