Speed Impacts on Complete Streets Elements, Phase II

Summary:

MSU has recently completed related complete streets research that explored the effects of various roadway cross-sectional characteristics on driver speed selection in urban and suburban areas across Minnesota. This research resulted in a series of speed reduction factors (SRF) for various roadway cross-sectional elements and related guidance as to how those elements reduce speeds. However, some important questions remain. In particular, there is interest in understanding how driver speed selection varies when non-motorized users are present. There are also areas from the initial research that warrant further investigation, such as how driver behavior varies based on median dimensions, the presence of curb and gutter, and the degree of parking activity along a corridor. This study aims to address these gaps by investigating how these elements affect driver speed selection through a series of field studies at 16 sites throughout Minnesota. The results of this study will provide additional guidance that furthers efforts of MnDOT and local road agencies.

Final Deliverables:

Related Materials:

Related Research:

• Complete Streets Speed Impacts

Project Personnel:

Principal Investigator:  Peter Savolainen

Co-Principal Investigator:  Tim Gates

Technical Liaison:  Duane Hill

Project Coordinator:  David Glyer

Panel Members: 
Alex Raymond - Metro District
Derek Leuer - Traffic Engineering
Hannah Pritchard - Transit and Active Transportation
Jacob Rueter - Transit and Active Transportation
James Rosenow - Project Management and Technical Support
Luis Flores - Ramsey County
Mark Callahan - Scott County, MN
Mark Ebnet - Benton County
Maxwell Moreland - Traffic Engineering
Ryan Hoefs - Washington County
Sara Johnson - Sustainability & Public Health
Suzanne Scotty - Metro District
Victor Lund - St. Louis County Public Works - Engineer