We are certifying a project in a semi rural area. Although we have identified 10 basic services, the reviewers have questioned the pedestrian access to these areas. Specifically, they requested specific documentation confirming that barrier-free pedestrian access, sidewalks, crosswalks, and/or unobstructed pathways area available to these services.
Due to the fact that this is a semi rural area, in process of being developed, only the main highway is paved, and the rest of the roads around our project area compacted gravel. The sidewalks are not identified by being a step higher than the roads, and there are no crosswalk lines painted on the compacted gravel.
We do have 10 basic services and the development density available and the area is being slowly developed looking to be fully developed, sidewalks, crosswalks, etc in does about 5 years, although it is very transited and used as they are now.
Has anyone had a similar situation? Recommendations?
We would really like to earn this credit due to the number of points it carries.
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Allison Smith
Sustainable Design LeaderHKS, Inc.
42 thumbs up
November 29, 2016 - 3:18 pm
Was the site previously developed or is it greenfield? Can pedestrians safely cross roads without crosswalks, or is the road too heavily traveled? The credit is clear that "pedestrians must be able to walk to the services without being blocked by walls, highways, or other barriers".
I have not had a similar situation. However, I recommend showing safe walking routes on your site plan (include walking distance) and include a narrative stating that the route(s) are barrier-free and/or unobstructed pathways. The reviewer may simply be looking for reassurance that the walking routes are safe as it may not be clear.
Let us know how it goes!
Jimena Etchegaray
ArchitectGREENM
November 29, 2016 - 3:32 pm
Hi Allison,
Thank you so much for your reply. The site was a greenfield.
Yes, pedestrians can safely cross roads without crosswalks since the roads are not heavily travelled. Our team actually walked the route to every service and public transportation stop several time to make sure it could be done.
And, its really the only way the local community gets around and use their service.
We'll take your advice and let you know how it goes for our final review.
Cheers!
Allison Smith
Sustainable Design LeaderHKS, Inc.
42 thumbs up
November 29, 2016 - 5:44 pm
FYI: The first bullet point under option 2, "is located on a previously developed site".
Jimena Etchegaray
ArchitectGREENM
November 29, 2016 - 6:03 pm
Yes! I re-read my reply... it should have written "the site was not a greenfield".
I am sorry.
This credit is not admissible for a greenfield site.
Thank You!