Evaluating the Impact of Access Density on Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety

This study examines the impact of access density on pedestrian and bicycle crash rates in urban areas of Florida. Access management, defined as the strategic control of vehicular access points along roadways, plays a crucial role in mitigating conflicts between various roadway users. Previous research has established a positive correlation between access density and crash rates, yet limited studies have analyzed its effects on vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. To quantify these impacts, this study identified high-crash roadway segments using Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) data. Geometric, traffic, crash, and access management information was collected and analyzed across 133 viable bicycle and 108 viable pedestrian minisegments. Statistical methods, including negative binomial regression, were employed to determine the relationships between access density and crash frequency and severity. Findings indicate that increased access density, particularly driveway density, significantly correlates with higher crash frequencies, regardless of pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The study further reveals that pedestrian and bicycle crashes are more frequent and severe along roadways with high access density, emphasizing the need for improved access management strategies to enhance safety. These results provide empirical support for policy recommendations advocating for reduced access density and enhanced pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure. This research bridges a critical gap in access management studies by directly linking access density to the safety performance of vulnerable road users. The findings highlight the importance of integrating access management techniques in urban planning to mitigate pedestrian and cyclist crash risks.