Excerpts from the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) pertaining to pedestrian accessibility
The following excerpt from TEA-21, which was signed into law on June 9, 1998, establishes eligibility for federal matching funds of at least 80% for audible traffic signals and audible signs at street crossings.
SEC. 1202. BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION AND PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS. (a) In
General.--Section 217 of title 23, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by inserting ``pedestrian walkways and'' after ``construction of''; and
(B) by striking ``(other than the Interstate System)'';
(2) in subsection (e) by striking ``, other than a highway access to which is fully controlled,'';
(3) by striking subsection (g) and inserting the following:
``(g) Planning and Design.--
``(1) In general.--Bicyclists and pedestrians shall be given due consideration in the comprehensive transportation plans developed by each metropolitan planning organization and State in accordance with sections 134 and 135, respectively. Bicycle transportation facilities and pedestrian walkways shall be considered, where appropriate, in conjunction with all new construction and reconstruction of transportation facilities, except where bicycle and pedestrian use are not permitted.
``(2) Safety considerations.--Transportation plans and projects shall provide due consideration for safety and contiguous routes for bicyclists and pedestrians. Safety considerations shall include the installation, where appropriate, and maintenance of audible traffic signals and audible signs at street crossings.'';
(B) Design Guidance.--
(1) In general.--In implementing section 217(g) of title 23, United States Code, the Secretary, in cooperation with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the Institute of Transportation Engineers, and other interested organizations, shall develop guidance on the various approaches to accommodating bicycles and pedestrian travel.
(2) Issues to be addressed.--The guidance shall address issues such as the level and nature of the demand, volume, and speed of motor vehicle traffic, safety, terrain, cost, and sight distance.
(3) Recommendations.--The guidance shall include recommendations on amending and updating the policies of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials relating to highway and street design standards to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians.
(4) Time period for development.--The guidance shall be developed within 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act.
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