Kerb crossings

Description

A kerb crossing is a crossing point with two kerb ramps on opposite sides of the road providing a smooth transition between the footpath and roadway that can be used by all pedestrians as shown in the photo below.

Kerb crossing, Sumner, Christchurch. (Photo: Ben Jassin)

When to use

Check whether a kerb crossing is a suitable treatment for your site by referring to:

PNG: Crossing selection process 

Benefits

• Guides pedestrians to a safer place to cross.
• Provides a smooth transition between the footpath and roadway that can be used by all pedestrians.

Implications

• Does not give pedestrians priority so can be unsuitable for some pedestrians.
• Does not assist pedestrians to cross if street is wide.

Recommended parameters

• Operating speed 50km/h or less.
• Only appropriate for low traffic volume environment.
• Only appropriate for low pedestrian demands.
• Only appropriate where crossing distance is 9m or less.

Legal considerations

The kerb and channel of any footpath must permit the safe and easy passage from kerb to kerb of any mechanical conveyance normally and lawfully used by a disabled person.

NZ Local Government Act 1974, s331(2)(external link)

Design considerations

It is important that the kerb ramps are located opposite each other to provide the shortest crossing distance for pedestrians. Kerb ramp design provides design guidance applicable to kerb crossings.

PNG: Kerb ramp design