This week on Foot

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This week isn't looking so hot for Canada, where a Toronto girl the 16th pedestrian struck in recent days. It could explain why Police issue 13,000 tickets in pedestrian safety blitz. Yikes, 13,000! At least those were mostly to drivers, as opposed to the practice on the UNC campus where Citations to be issued for pedestrian violations.

Meanwhile, in Ohio Officials lower speed in wake of pedestrian fatal, and on the other side of the globe Township office projects promote sustainability (although admittedly I'm a little dubious of the walkability efforts of a company called "Megaworld").

Back in the US the Alexandra Council approves cash in lieu of pedestrian bridge, while in Florida Some aren't so happy with pedestrian bridge that they think will encourage more vehicle traffic on their local streets.

But it's slow pedestrian traffic that businesses in London's West End are worried about, which is why they're advocating for the installation of a Pedestrian slow lane in London.
And finally, this week the blog Gayapolis confirms something that won't surprise many urban planners: Top Walkable Cities Also Among Most Gay Friendly.

Walking Webinars

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A few upcoming opportunities for online learning:

November 23, 10 am - 12 pm
Pedestrian Safety Focus
Presented by the National Highway Institute. Sign up to participate here.

December 2, 11 am - 12:30 pm
Safety and Operation of Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (HAWKs)

This webinar will explore the origin, installation, and operational experience of the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon or HAWK. Participants must register at least 24 hours prior to the start of the webinar, space is limited, and there is a fee for non-TRB Sponsor employees. More information available here.

Great LA Walk

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And for the umpteenth year in a row, I will be out of town for the Great LA Walk--but if you're in LA this Saturday, you should take a stroll down Wilshire with a few hundred of your new best friends. Get the details here.

Cool Ped Stuff #11: Mockumentaries

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Behold, the Plight of the North American Bipeds

This Week on Foot

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As Angelenos continue to discuss the low penalties for drivers who injure or kill pedestrians, elsewhere in the country the pedestrian deaths go on. In Minnesota a Grand Avenue pedestrian death appears to be 'tragic accident', while in Michigan a Pedestrian who died could've had a ride. Both of these crashes happened after dark, which is why the folks in Oregon remind us that with the change in daylight savings time (and in the season), Dark, slick roads set the stage to endanger pedestrians.

Outside the US things aren't so bright for pedestrians either. In Wales there is a Business man’s objection to Rhos on Sea pedestrian crossing because it takes up his parking spaces, and the Vancouver Sun reminds us that Pedestrian-train collisions take their toll on operators, too.

Of course, we can admit that sometimes drivers aren't at fault. In Denver Boulder police ticket pedestrian struck by car after the pedestrian crossed against a light (while drunk). I understand the ticket, though the broken leg probably sends a stronger message.

Elsewhere in the country, cities are taking action to protect pedestrians. There are New pedestrian street markings in Chicago , a High-intensity activated crosswalk for pedestrian safety installed on Huron Street in Ann Arbor, and in Montana Cyclists, walkers cruise through new Main Street tunnel.

Other places are looking at pedestrian issues as well. Connecticut's Walk/Bike Summit Forum Examines How 'Complete Streets' Will Aid Cyclists, Walkers, and a new Ventura video illustrates planning for connection, walkability, quality. If the photo simulations the video shows ever come true, I might just consider sticking around this county...