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If a bridge can't be sited so users reach it without climb- U~tderpass. Most pedestrian underpasses are expensive fail- ing stairs, it should probably not be constructed. Bridges ° ures. The young find crossing the street faster (and perhaps connecting two major buildings, where users climb as p.art more challenging), while the elderly are unable to walk of the normal route (as a ramp leading past shops) or where easily up and down the stairs. Perceived dangers often keep natural elevations allow users to reach it without .cli~bihg people from using pedestrian underpasses which are usually stairs, may offer pedestrian advantages. (See sketch) too long, too narrow, poorly lit and maintained, infrequently To date, no inexpensive pedestrian overpass has been policed, and have poor site lines. They have a reputation devised. An overpass requires two feet of structure and (often true) of attracting petty criminals and vandals. To should have a 15-foot truck clearance. To use the overpass, extend underpass usage, they should be well lit, wide and pedestrians must walk up and down 35 steps or travel two visible from nearby active areas and policed regularly. Any ramps, each about 210 feet long (eight percent grade, Plus invisible areas should be TV-monitored to increase the per- level rest areas). If possible, it is best to select a swale or ceived safety and reduce the actual danger. Underpasses Iow point for cars, build ramps and let pedestrians flow should be avoided unless: naturally over the top. (See sketch). 1. The street they pass under is so busy that crossing is absolutely impossible. Even with these conditions, barriers on both sides may be necessary to physically prevent, people from crossing. Underpasses should be at least 12 feet wide, well lit, preferably with daylight ~' visible throughout, no longer than the road width with- out parking, and dean. ed regularly. Following con- struction of ma.ny stair-accessed underpasses, Munich, Germany has decided not to build more unless they include ramps for wheelchairs and bicyclists. But, ramps consume considerable room, at least 145 lineal feet for a ten-foot deep underpass (eight feet of tunnel height plus two feet of structure). Some layouts are shown. 2. Access to an underpass can be graciously ramped into the tunnel so it doesn't feel like a detour. New, planned communities are able to allocate sufficient land, while built-up communities usually can't find the necessary sp;ice. Skybridgel decrease needed pedestrian activity at the street level and ~hould be avoided unle~ the street is unsafe. 38 City Council Agenda page 290