The 46th to 56th St. N. & N. Peoria Avenue Crosswalk Intersection Project

Enhancing Pedestrian Safety and Accessibility: The 46th to 56th St. N. & Peoria Avenue Crosswalk Intersection Project

The 46th to 56th St. N. & Peoria Avenue Crosswalk Intersection multimodal transportation project is part of the larger 46th St N Peoria Peoria Connection initiative. This Vision-funded economic development project aims to revitalize the area along North Peoria Avenue from 56th Street North to Mohawk Boulevard. The City of Tulsa and Tulsa Planning Office, in collaboration with the North Tulsa Economic Development Initiative (NTEDi), are working to enhance the area through various improvements, including sidewalk upgrades, new street lighting, landscaping, building renovations, and public space beautification.

Project Overview

This bustling intersection has historically seen a high volume of traffic, making it difficult for pedestrians to cross safely. Recognizing the need for improvement, local authorities have initiated a project to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility.

Project Goals and Objectives

The primary goal of this project is to create a safer and more accessible environment for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Specific objectives include:

Reducing pedestrian accidents: Implementing measures to minimize the risk of accidents involving pedestrians. New crosswalks, improved pedestrian signals, and pedestrian refuge islands will make the intersection safer for pedestrians.

Improving accessibility: Enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities and older adults.
Promoting sustainable transportation: Encouraging the use of non-motorized transportation options, such as walking and biking.

Alleviating traffic congestion: Streamlining traffic flow to reduce congestion and improve overall mobility.
Improved street lighting: New LED lighting on powder-coated poles will increase visibility and security.
Greener infrastructure: The addition of 150+ new trees and planting beds will beautify the area and provide shade.

Community engagement: Community clean-ups and facade improvements will foster a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Project Scope and Design

To achieve these goals, the project will involve several key improvements:

Installation of new crosswalks: Adding clearly marked crosswalks with high-visibility signage.
Upgrades to pedestrian signals: Installing pedestrian-activated signals with audible cues.
Creation of pedestrian refuge islands: Providing safe havens for pedestrians in the middle of the intersection.
Potential bike lane improvements: Expanding or adding bike lanes to encourage cycling.

Addressing these areas means the project will not only improve the physical appearance of the corridor but also create a more inviting and accessible environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Project Timeline and Budget

The exact timeline and budget for the project are still being finalized. However, local authorities are committed to completing the project as efficiently as possible.

The City of Tulsa has a significant network of arterial streets, totaling 363 miles. While some of these streets have been improved to accommodate increasing traffic volumes, many still operate below the desired service level.

Key challenges and strategies:

Capacity constraints: A significant portion of the arterial street network, particularly south of 21st Street, is experiencing congestion due to insufficient capacity. To address this, the city has been widening roads to four, five, or six lanes, depending on the specific location and traffic demand.
Funding and implementation: Urban street projects are complex and require substantial funding. The city has employed a phased approach, funding design and construction through various capital programs, such as bond issues and sales tax extensions.
Multimodal transportation: The city is considering multimodal transportation options to optimize street space and accommodate various modes of transportation, including walking, biking, and public transit.

By implementing these strategies and securing adequate funding, the City of Tulsa aims to improve the efficiency, safety, and overall quality of its arterial street network.

Community Involvement and Public Outreach

To ensure the project meets the needs of the community, local officials are actively seeking public input. Public meetings, online surveys, and other outreach efforts are being conducted to gather feedback and address concerns.

Expected Impacts and Benefits

Upon completion, the project is expected to yield significant benefits, including:

Reduced pedestrian accidents: A safer environment for pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
Improved air quality: Encouraging the use of non-motorized transportation can help reduce air pollution.
Increased use of non-motorized transportation: Promoting walking and biking as viable transportation options.
Enhanced neighborhood connectivity: A more connected and walkable community.

By investing in this multimodal transportation project, local authorities are demonstrating their commitment to creating a safer, more accessible, and sustainable community.