Notice of motion calling on Roscommon County Council to install a number of raised type b zebra  pedestrian crossings points in each Towns and Villages in County Roscommon and provide for this in the next budget .

These raised crossing points will act as a traffic calming measure and allow people to cross the road in a safe way at the same level as the footpath.

Notice of Motion calling on Roscommon County Council to install a number of raised type b zebra pedestrian crossings points in each Towns and Villages in County Roscommon and provide for this in the next budget.

These raised crossing points will act as a traffic calming measure and allow people to cross the road in a safe way at the same level as the footpath.

The Meetings Administrator read the following reply:

The Roads and Transportation Unit, in collaboration with the three Municipal Districts, is committed to providing pedestrian crossings at appropriate locations within our County Towns. However, the implementation of such crossings must be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as:

• Traffic volume and speed: The level of traffic and its speed are crucial determinants in selecting the most suitable type of pedestrian crossing.
• Pedestrian usage: The expected volume of pedestrian traffic at the proposed location is essential for assessing the need for a crossing.
• Existing infrastructure: The presence of footpaths, cycle lanes, and other road features can influence the design and feasibility of a crossing.
• Land availability: Sufficient space may be required for the installation of a crossing, especially for larger types like pelican crossings.
• Risk assessment: A thorough risk assessment must be conducted to identify potential hazards and ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists.
• Loss of Parking: A compliant design requires a parking free zone all around the crossing to ensure sightlines are not compromised

The type of pedestrian crossing adopted will depend on these factors and must comply with the Department of Transport's guidelines for road safety and quality audits. While we are open to providing pedestrian crossings, it's important to note that a blanket approach of installing them in all County Roscommon towns is not practical or affordable.

It's essential to prioritize locations where pedestrian safety is most compromised and where crossings will have the greatest positive impact. By carefully considering these factors and adhering to established standards, we can ensure that our pedestrian crossing facilities are effective, safe, and meet the needs of our communities.

Finally, while pedestrian crossings can contribute to traffic calming, a comprehensive approach is often necessary, involving measures like narrower lanes, junction tightening and raised platforms where appropriate. Crossings should be limited to areas with well-managed traffic and reduced speeds.

The presence of footpaths on both sides of the road is a factor to consider when planning crossings and adequate funding is essential for the design, installation, and maintenance of pedestrian crossings.

Members supported the motion and raised the following points:

• It is important to push forward with pedestrian crossing points as there is low visibility especially this time of year.
• It was suggested that local donations could be sought and there are issues being raised regarding safety around bus stops and crossing roads to the bus.
• It was suggested that the Council carries out a basic survey in towns and villages and put together a costing of installing pedestrian crossing points.
• The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Fitzmaurice commented that the motion is proposed over a five year period.  It was suggested that there may be funding for feasibility studies which can be used for pedestrian crossing point, and an update was requested on this. 
• The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Fitzmaurice suggested working on one village in each MD per year over the five year period.

A/Director of Services, Greg O’Donnell commented that the Council supports the proposal to install pedestrian crossing points in general, but that they are not suitable for all villages and towns where traffic is not already calmed. He suggested taking the type of crossing out of the proposal as these need to be designed on a case by case basis.  He advised that TII can facilitate crossings on national routes if they are required.

He commented that a systematic approach is required as these take time to deliver, and cost approximately €30,000 each.  He noted that funding will be required for installation.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Fitzmaurice

SECONDED by Cllr. Moylan

It was AGREED to install pedestrian crossing points in towns and villages over a five year period, where feasible.