Illuminating sidewalks and crossings makes it easier for people to see when walking at night and also increases their visibility to drivers. There are many considerations when selecting, designing, and implementing lighting to enhance the pedestrian environment. The presence of pedestrian-generating land uses and existing or anticipated pedestrian crossing activity should be considered when determining the appropriate level of illumination. In general, areas with greater anticipated pedestrian volumes, such as at commercial districts, near parks and schools, and along transit routes, are most in need of lighting.

Lighting should be considered for all location where pedestrian crossing is expected such as signalized intersections, uncontrolled intersections, and mid-block locations,. At controlled and uncontrolled intersections, luminaires should be located to provide appropriate light levels as recommended by or the

TxDOT follows FHWA standards for illumination levels and uniformity for lighting for roadways, walkways, bicycle facilities, crosswalks, and pedestrian underpasses. Illumination levels vary depending on luminaire type, pole height, roadway type, and level of pedestrian activity or conflict. Preferred pedestrian lighting layouts will vary based on the functional classification and cross-section being illuminated. Designers should refer to Chapter 6 Section 2 of TxDOT’s for illuminance values for pedestrian facilities and intersections.

Lighting should be designed to avoid unnecessary light spillover, energy usage, and environmental impacts. Quality and color temperature of light can impact the character and visitor perception of a street or neighborhood. However, special caution should be used when selecting a color temperature for lighting in and adjacent to residential areas. Higher color temperatures produce a bluer light that can disrupt human sleep cycles.

Although various light sources are approved, Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting is encouraged, as it is more energy efficient. Lighting is typically located in the buffer zone. Lighting should be oriented to light both the roadway and the sidewalk. All street lighting should not include up-light fixtures (BUG rating with U=0) which direct light downward and reduce the potential for glare and light trespass on adjacent properties.

Pedestrian lighting can be used alone or in combination with roadway scale lighting in high activity areas to accommodate pedestrian activity at night. Pedestrian lighting can be located on the same pole as roadway lighting to reduce the number of poles within the street buffer zone lighting. Lighting on rural roadways is generally not required, but should be considered for intersections, roundabouts, and areas where pedestrians and bicyclists may be present.

Lighting should be placed at least 24-in behind the face of the curb. Poles should be placed in Table of Contents Instructions Reference Links Roadway Design Manual | 19-74 accordance with guidance regarding obstructions in . Design of lighting systems should be coordinated with local utilities.