Services and Resources for Sidewalks

This strategy supports the overarching need to access the pedestrian network. The PedPDX Safety Analysis revealed that crashes at unmarked locations are more likely to occur where marked crosswalk spacing does not meet the new PedPDX crossing spacing guidelines.

Seventy percent of pedestrian crashes in Portland occur at intersections (in Oregon, every intersection is a legal crosswalk). The following actions seek to improve visibility conditions at pedestrian crossings through intersection design, street markings, and vision clearance best practices.

This strategy aims at protecting pedestrians trying to cross at a “WALK” signal from turning cars, a problem shown in the PedPDX Safety Analysis and heard in the PedPDX Disability Focus Group.

Improving the safety and comfort at crossing locations and transit stations will improve the pedestrian experience for all.

Responses from the Walking Priorities Survey cited missing and poorly maintained infrastructure as key factors creating difficult walking conditions citywide.

Poor lighting is one of the top pedestrian difficulties in Portland, according to the Walking Priorities Survey and the Walking While Black Focus Group. PedPDX found that streetlights are present in crashes after dark suggesting that existing streetlights alone are not sufficient.

“People driving too fast on residential streets” and “people driving too fast on busy streets” are two of the top five reasons walking is difficult in Portland. According to PedPDX, the risk of a pedestrian crash is 180% higher on a street with a 35 mph posted speed than one with 30 mph.

Buckled, cracked, or uplifted sidewalks were reported to be one of the top pedestrian difficulties citywide in. Addressing these and other obstructions would make walking more enjoyable for all ages and abilities. This strategy is particularly important for people with disabilities.

Emerging technologies have the potential to enhance pedestrian experiences, and planning for these new forms of mobility can shape how they are integrated into the network.

Often overlooked, personal safety is core to making our streets safe. It's part of our Vision Zero and Safe Routes to School programs. To realize a safe transportation system that provides all people access and mobility to where they need to go, we must proactively take care of each other.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation offers free Vision Zero yard signs for neighbors who want to promote safe driving on their streets

This update reflects the progress we’ve made and the challenges we’ve faced in the seven years since city council adopted the Vision Zero Action Plan in 2016, and sets the course for our work through 2025.

Report a specific incident, such as an improperly parked scooter, or other issues with any motorized, electric scooter found in the Portland area. These issues are submitted to both PBOT and the associated e-scooter companies (Bird, Bolt, Lime and Spin) for resolution.

Information from the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) on how to submit requests for review of non-urgent safety concerns related to pedestrians, people biking or taking transit, speeding drivers, speed limits, traffic safety around schools, visibility, signage, and signal timing.

Order free Vision Zero materials from the Portland Bureau of Transportation to help educate family, friends, neighbors, your school, or your organization about Vision Zero, Portland's commitment to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries.

Overview of street and sidewalk improvement requirements for development proposals. Resources for determining what type of public right-of-way improvements may be needed for a specific site.