Crash Locations
The crash locations in Pleasant Ridge from 2018 to 2022, complied by SEMCOG, are shown in the Crash Location Map. During the 5 year period, 873 crashes were recorded. Of these, 2 were fatal and 3 were serious injury crashes. Table 10 also details the crashes by major roadways.
Another notable trend is that of these 873 crashes, only 5 involved bicyclists and only 4 involved pedestrians. None of the bicyclist crashes resulted in serious injury, but 1 pedestrian crash was fatal, and another resulted in a serious injury. The fatality was on I-696, which is not intended for pedestrians. Overall, the low number of bicyclist and pedestrian crashes indicates that the non-motorized system in Pleasant Ridge is fairly safe.
Complete Streets
Complete Streets is a design approach that ensures streets are safe, accessible, and convenient for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers of all ages and abilities, by incorporating features like sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and transit amenities into road planning. Many of these elements have been discussed in previous sections, so this section aims to provide an overview of complete street considerations and recommendations.
It is evident from the previous transportation projects that Pleasant Ridge is committed to ensuring a safe and efficient transportation system for all users. The City should continue this commitment by ensuring the following considerations are prevalent in future transportation plans and projects.
· Sidewalks: Wide, continuous walkways with appropriate curb ramps, crosswalks, and tactile indicators.
· Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes, cycle tracks, or shared paths to ensure cyclist safety and convenience.
· Transit Facilities: Bus stops, shelters, or transit lanes to prioritize and accommodate public transportation.
· Traffic Calming Measures: Features like curb extensions, speed humps, and medians to slow down traffic and enhance safety.
· Crosswalks and Pedestrian Signals: Clearly marked and signalized crossings for safe pedestrian movement.
· Street Lighting: Adequate lighting for visibility and safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
· Landscaping and Green Spaces: Street trees, planters, and green areas for aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits.
· Street Furnishings: Benches, trash receptacles, bike racks, and way-finding signage to enhance usability and comfort.
· Accessible Design: Compliance with ADA standards to ensure access for individuals with disabilities.
