Pedestrian Concepts
Circulation
Much like vehicular circulation, pedestrian circulation works best when there is a clear hierarchy of walkways. The most heavily used pathways need to be wider and clearly defined, perhaps employing special paving materials. Lesser-used walkways can be narrower and less emphasized, but still providing for necessary and convenient access between buildings and campus spaces. Simplifying the existing random walkway system of Elizabethtown College will improve the appearance of the campus, make it easier for visitors and new students to understand the importance and function of various facilities across campus, and make maintenance more efficient.
Future buildings on campus should be located in close proximity, if not within, the central core of campus. This will insure that the campus will remain a "walkable campus."
Pedestrian/Vehicular Conflicts
Aside from the overall simplification of the walkway system, another important issue to be addressed is the potential for vehicular/pedestrian conflicts, both on campus and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Pedestrian/vehicular conflict on campus will be greatly reduced by employing new vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems, separating the distinct uses and thereby limiting the potential for conflicts.
Reducing pedestrian/vehicular conflict at the edges of the campus is a greater challenge. Identifying the major pedestrian entry points and making special accommodations at these points will not only improve the safety of street crossings and increase the convenience of pedestrian access to the College, but will also create a more attractive interface between the College and the Elizabethtown community. Methods for addressing these crossings include adjusting the street width and using paving materials with a distinct texture and/or color to alert both drivers and pedestrians to the situation. Appropriate signage and possibly signal lights can also reduce the hazard at pedestrian crossings. Convenient, attractive, and safe streets crossings will welcome pedestrian access to the campus and support the image of the College.
Walk Treatment
Walkways scheduled for new construction or renovation work should fit into the grand scheme of the master plan. Major pedestrian paths and paths that double as service access should be constructed of concrete. These walks should also be at least 12 feet in width. Walks that are determined to be minor circulation paths should be constructed of concrete or asphalt. These paths should range in width from five to ten feet.
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