Performance Evaluation of the Pedestrian Safety Facilities in Mattu Town

Ethiopia faces a pressing issue of pedestrian safety exacerbated by rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic accidents are a leading cause of death globally, with pedestrians particularly vulnerable. In Ethiopia, over 60% of road traffic fatalities involve pedestrians, emphasizing the urgent need for effective safety measures. The population of Mattu Town is predicted to rise from 28,782 in 2007 to 130,027 in 2023, illustrating the difficulties that many developing-nation metropolitan regions encounter. The town's pedestrian infrastructure is characterized by poorly maintained sidewalks, insufficient signage, and a notable absence of traffic signals. This has resulted in 24 pedestrian fatalities and 51 injuries over the past three years, underscoring the critical need for improved safety measures. The study aims to evaluate the performance of existing pedestrian safety facilities, including sidewalks, crosswalks, signage, and traffic signals, to identify areas for improvement. A mixed methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis from pedestrian accident reports and traffic volume counts with qualitative surveys assessing pedestrian perceptions and behaviors. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS for quantitative data and Excel for organizing and visualizing survey results. The research questions focus on the effectiveness of current facilities, factors contributing to pedestrian accidents, and the perceptions of pedestrians regarding safety measures. The general objective is to create a safer pedestrian environment, while specific objectives include assessing the effectiveness of existing facilities and identifying contributing factors to accidents. Results indicate that inadequate infrastructure significantly contributes to pedestrian accidents in Mattu Town. Key findings reveal that areas with poorly marked crosswalks and inadequate lighting correspond with higher accident rates. Additionally, surveys show a lack of awareness among drivers and pedestrians regarding existing safety measures. This study is important because it tackles the pressing need for pedestrian safety in a rapidly urbanizing setting, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents and inform local policies. By identifying deficiencies in pedestrian infrastructure and proposing targeted interventions, the study seeks to foster a pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages walking as a viable and safe mode of transportation. This research will serve as a valuable resource for urban planners and policymakers, contributing to the evolution of sustainable and livable communities in Ethiopia.