Behavioral Investigation of Temporary and Permanent Pedestrian Infrastructure

Status: Complete
Report Date: 01/20/2026

Summary:

To enhance livability and improve safety for pedestrians at intersections, agencies may install temporary or permanent infrastructure such as curb extensions or pedestrian refuge islands. These installations, especially refuges, are typically considered effective, but more detailed information is needed about their impacts to optimize the benefits. Investigators evaluated the safety outcomes at 12 intersections in Minneapolis and St. Paul before and after the installation of infrastructure. Results offer valuable insights for transportation engineers and planners to consider as they develop and implement strategies to mitigate dangerous conditions for pedestrians.

Final Deliverables:

Behavioral Investigation of Temporary and Permanent Pedestrian Infrastructure (Report #2026-08)
Evaluating the Safety Impacts of Select Pedestrian Infrastructure (Research Summary)

Related Materials:

Evaluating the Safety Impacts of Select Pedestrian Infrastructure (Blog Post)

Related Research:

Project Personnel:

Principal Investigator: Curtis Craig
Co-Principal Investigator: Nichole Morris
Technical Liaison: Mitchell Kiecker
Project Coordinator: David Glyer
Panel Members:
    Bradley Estochen - Ramsey County
    Cindy Voigt - City of Duluth / Engineer
    David Sheen - Hennepin County
    Derek Leuer - Traffic Engineering
    Ethan Fawley - City of Minneapolis
    Hannah Pritchard - Transit and Active Transportation
    Jodi Teich - Otter Tail County Highway Department
    Kristi Sebastian - FHWA - Minnesota Division Office
    Kristie Billiar - Operations Div Admin
    Maren Webb - District 1
    Michael Samuelson - Transportation System Management
    Sarina Praseedom - Traffic Engineering