Access to GRT Stations

Contents

• Access to stations
• Pedestrian facility improvements along the corridor

Access to stations

The station access planning is based on proximity to existing traffic signals, the need for direct metro connections via tunnels at some stations, and existing pedestrian bridges. The presumption is to provide a signalized at-grade crosswalk. This is ensure safe and direct access for all users, especially those who cannot climb stairs. For corridors with faster traffic and more traffic lanes, pedestrian bridges may be considered. They should also provide access to adjacent buildings. Where there is to be a direct connection to the Metro, then a pedestrian tunnel may be considered.

Where there is no traffic signal within 150m, and more than two mixed traffic lanes, and traffic speeds of above 30 km/hr on average, a pedestrian overpass or underpass should be used. Access scenarios (bridge, tunnel, at-grade) for the inner BRT stations are illustrated in the figure below. The outer stations generally feature at-grade access or use existing pedestrian bridges.

In Zhongshan Avenue a combination of tunnels (at Metro stations and in front of Teem Plaza), pedestrian bridges and at-grade zebra crossings are proposed. At-grade pedestrian crossings were used wherever station access points are within 150m of a signalized intersection. Access to these stations should be synchronized with the nearby intersection signal. In sections of Zhongshan Av without nearby signals, pedestrian bridges were used. At existing tunnels and Metro integration stations, tunnels were used. These will connect to the Metro stations. Different considerations will apply in other BRT corridors.

Pedestrian facility improvements along the corridor

Guangzhou's BRT will include major improvements for pedestrians, including:

• safe facilities for crossing roads
• reduction in waiting time to cross the road
• reduced distances between crossings
• reduced walking distances to bus stops
• widened (in many locations) and more pleasant walkways
• more pedestrian-oriented public spaces.

BRT passengers are pedestrians at both the beginning and end of each trip, and pedestrian facility improvements will be carried out at several points along the BRT corridor.