Bill > H3804

This bill aims to improve pedestrian safety by requiring municipalities to identify and accommodate crosswalks used by pedestrians with slower walking speeds. Specifically, the bill mandates that the transportation department's manual and municipal regulations must account for pedestrians who walk more slowly due to age, physical mobility issues, or when transporting or assisting others. The bill requires municipalities to create a detailed list of locations with signalized crosswalks where pedestrians are likely to move at slower speeds, and then adjust signal walk clearance times to ensure these pedestrians can safely complete street crossings. The department of highways must develop implementation regulations by January 1, 2026, and municipalities must comply with these new requirements by January 1, 2027. This legislation is designed to make street crossings more accessible and safer for individuals who may require more time to traverse intersections, such as elderly people, those with mobility challenges, or parents with young children.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3804