Bulb-outs

Description
Curb extensions to physically reduce the road's width at intersections. Similar to lane narrowing but used at intersection(s). Used to provide both physical and visual narrowing of the roadway to force drivers to slow down and to shorten the crossing distance for pedestrians and hence spend less time in the intersection. Also called bump-outs.


Issues Addressed

  • Speeding
  • Pedestrian safety


Applications


Advantages 

  • Reduces pedestrian crossing distance.
  • Pedestrians more visible to drivers.
  • Interrupts straight curb lines and slows traffic, especially when used in series.
  • Reduces turning speeds.
  • Can visually enhance the street through landscaping.


Disadvantages

  • Can require some parking removal.
  • May impede bicycle traffic by restricting travel lanes.
  • Large vehicles may need to cross into adjacent travel lanes to negotiate turns.


Evaluation Considerations

  • Only possible on streets with curbs.

Design/Installation Considerations

  • Landscaping can be installed to improve aesthetics by reducing cement footprint of bulb-out.
  • Special design attention for buses making right-turns and for bike lanes.

Main St. @ Third St




Berry Ave



Santa Clara, CA