The Feasibility of Accommodating Physically Handicapped Individuals on Pedestrian Over and Under-Crossing Structures

摘要

The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of accommodating the physically handicapped on over-and undercrossing structures. Based upon the evaluation of 124 crossing structures, 86 percent of these structures had at least one major access barrier. Alternative solutions for identified major access barriers were developed and examined for cost effectiveness. These identified solutions must be field tested before wide scale implementation. It was concluded that both major and minor access barriers can be eliminated. However, research is needed on specific design problems (ramp gradients, lengths, etc.) before recommendations for the design or retrofitting of crossing structures can be developed. When recommended design guidelines have been determined, it is feasible that alternative solutions can be developed for making existing and new structures accessible to the physically handicapped.