City Addresses Illegal Crosswalk Marking Activity

Crosswalks may seem no more than simple stripes, but determining where they go takes more consideration than citizens may think.  A recent rash of unofficial crosswalk markings have City of Tacoma staff asking residents to find better ways to channel their desire for pedestrian enhancements. 

“We understand and empathize with our citizens’ desire for more pedestrian facilities, but this form of vandalism is not acceptable and can quickly become a significant resource drain and safety hazard. The City will pursue legal action against those engaged in this kind of illegal activity,” said City Manager T.C. Broadnax.

Crosswalk markings create visual emphasis for drivers and guide pedestrians to the best crossing locations. Therefore, poorly located crosswalks lead to safety concerns and the City will continue to act swiftly to remove unofficial markings.

Before creating any new crosswalk, City staff use standards from the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices to help determine when conditions are favorable. Considerations include: pedestrian and traffic volumes, street width, traffic speed, sight distance, collision history, traffic control devices and ADA accessibility. 

Each year, City staff prioritize new pedestrian facilities in an equitable process designed to place improvements throughout the community where they are most needed. Tacoma citizens with traffic safety concerns are encouraged to use the City’s proper channels to request Engineering Division review by calling (253) 591-5500.