Pedestrian connections

Introduction

[[File:San_Jose_light_rail_train.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A VTA light rail train station in San Jose illustrates an inviting and comfortable environment for pedestrians. Photo by Flickr user Albert's Images.

All commuters begin and end their trips as pedestrians, so a safe, secure and pleasant pedestrian experience is an important component of any public transportation system. Agencies can work with local governments to identify and improve the quality of pedestrian connections surrounding transit stations and ensure that there are abundant sidewalks and safe street crossings that connect commuters to the transit station.

Agencies have begun to take a more active role in improving the out-of-vehicle waiting experience at transit stops by supporting the provision station amenities that provide information and protect riders from the elements. Studies show that out-of-vehicle transit rider experience can be even more important than in-vehicle experience.

Improvements to pedestrian connections

Provision of a comprehensive network of safe, comfortable and secure paths for pedestrians

• The sidewalk network
• Sufficient safe street crossings
• Protection from the elements, i.e. shade trees

For discussion of pedestrian environment at station, see section on how to improve out-of-vehicle experience for transit users.