RADAR project’s partner Slovenian Automobile and Motorcycle club (AMZS) has started with the first phases of implementing an action plan on Provisions for Vulnerable Road Users. This week, the RADAR team from AMZS- in close cooperation with the local consultant UL-FGG-PTI- has been inspecting a location of pilot action in Slovenian city Rodica.

The pedestrian crossing is the main connection between the western and eastern parts of Rodica and as such is an important element of pedestrian path accessing public services on both sides of the built-up area. For example, example, 500 m east of the examined crossing elementary school and school for persons with special needs is located, therefore the measures proposed by RADAR project requires special attention taking into account different groups od vulnerable road users and at the same time addressing the pedestrian mobility, safety and accessibility to all with the same importance. To this end, proper navigation, signs, tactile markings, pedestrian surfaces that are free of obstacles should be considered to ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with equal access to school, work, home, shops, public facilities and buildings, and public transport. It is essential however that the design of pedestrian facilities consider the abilities and disabilities of all pedestrians. Mobility impairment is but one classification of disability, along with sensory deficits (the sight and hearing impaired) and cognitive impairments - those with diminished ability to process information including language barriers.

Due to the flow function of the road resulting in high traffic volume and high speeds signalized pedestrian crossing decreases the road capacity. The pedestrian crossing is followed by the level crossing with the railway line, where pedestrians are rather poorly protected.

The site location is a very exposed combined pedestrian and cyclist crossing of both heavy congested regional roads and an unprotected railway tracks. Although the track crossing has been upgraded recently, the field inspection has revealed repetitive offenses that pose a high risk for vulnerable road users:

• Pedestrians and Cyclists did not push the button to cross the road;
• Pedestrians and Cyclists pushed the button and did not wait for the countdown value of green light;
• Car stopped and after they let the pedestrian cross the road the drivers continued to drive while the light is still red.

The current stage while still exploring possible options the underpass is beginning to emerge as the only feasible solution.