HomeMy Public PortalAbout20100211_TybeePedestrianStudyFINALSUBMITTAL.pdf
City of Tybee Island
Pedestrian and Traffic Study
Submitted January 2010
(Revised)
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 2
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 4
2.0 Study Area ................................................................................................................................ 4
3.0 Existing Conditions Analysis ...................................................................................................... 6
3.1 US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street ..................................................................................... 6
3.1.1 Roadway Characteristics ....................................................................................................... 6
3.1.2 Existing Pedestrian Facilities ................................................................................................. 8
3.2 US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street ......................................................................................... 8
3.2.1 Roadway Characteristics ..................................................................................................... 10
3.2.2 Existing Pedestrian Facilities ............................................................................................... 10
4.0 Roadway Traffic Volumes and Safety Data .............................................................................. 10
5.0 Coordination with Other Plans and Studies ............................................................................. 12
5.1 Tybee Island Master Plan ............................................................................................................ 12
5.2 Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study ....................................................................................... 15
5.3 Chatham County Bikeway Plan ................................................................................................... 16
6.0 Recommendations .................................................................................................................. 18
6.1 US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Avenue ................................................................................. 18
6.1.1 Short‐Term/Low‐Cost Alternative ....................................................................................... 18
6.1.2 Long‐Term/Higher Cost Improvements .............................................................................. 22
6.1.3 Improvements Recommended for both the Short‐Term/Low Cost and Long‐Term/Higher
Cost Alternatives ................................................................................................................................. 27
6.2 US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue ................................................................. 28
6.2.1 Short‐Term/Low Cost Improvements ................................................................................. 28
6.2.2 Long‐Term/Higher Cost Improvements .............................................................................. 32
6.2.3 Improvements Recommended for both the Short‐Term/Low‐Cost and Long‐Term/Higher
Cost Alternatives ................................................................................................................................. 35
6.3 General Recommendations for US 80/Butler Avenue Corridor .................................................. 36
6.4 Cost Estimates ............................................................................................................................. 39
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 3
Table of Tables
Table 1. Eastbound Traffic Volumes at US 80/Butler Avenue and Lazaretto Creek, 2007‐2009 ................ 10
Table 2. Traffic Volumes at Two Locations along US 80/Butler Avenue, 2006‐2008 ................................. 11
Table 3. Crashes at US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street and at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue ........... 11
Table 4. Transportation Issues and Opportunities, Tybee Island Master Plan ........................................... 12
Table 5. City of Tybee Island Master Plan Transportation Recommendations .......................................... 14
Table 6. Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study Recommendations .......................................................... 15
Table 7. US 80 at McKenzie Street Recommended Improvement Alternatives ......................................... 26
Table 8. US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue Recommended Improvement Alternatives
.................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Table 9. Estimated Construction Costs for Recommended Improvements ................................................ 39
Table of Figures
Figure 1. Study Area ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 2. McKenzie Street at US 80/Butler Avenue ...................................................................................... 7
Figure 3. Tybrisa Street Intersection with US 80/Butler Avenue .................................................................. 9
Figure 4. Tybee Island Planned Bicycle Facilities ........................................................................................ 17
Figure 5. Raised Crosswalk with Curb Extensions ....................................................................................... 19
Figure 6. Refuge Island with Curb Extensions ............................................................................................. 21
Figure 7. US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street: Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 2 ............................. 25
Figure 8. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Avenue, Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 1 ..................................... 29
Figure 9. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Ave, Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 2 ........................................... 31
Figure 10. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Ave, Long‐Term Option 1 .......................................................... 33
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
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1.0 Introduction
The purpose of this study is to identify and address pedestrian issues along US 80/Butler Avenue in the
City of Tybee Island, Georgia. The US 80/Butler Avenue corridor is the primary roadway on the Island, is
the only way onto and off of the Island, and also serves as the evacuation route. Particularly at the
intersections of McKenzie Street and Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue, pedestrian safety is compromised by
high vehicle speeds and a lack of adequate pedestrian facilities. With higher levels of pedestrian activity
in these areas, pedestrian safety greatly needs improvement.
Tybee Island has high levels of pedestrian activity, particularly in the high season peaks in the summer.
However, the Island’s transportation system has historically been primarily based on a road network
that serves vehicular traffic. The main transportation corridor on the island in US Highway 80/Butler
Avenue, where there are many land uses, including commercial/retail, hotel, residential, offices, and
more. As a popular beach destination for vacationers, the population is approximately half the size
during off‐season months compared to that in the high season. Specifically, population doubles from
approximately 3,392 permanent residents in the off season1 to approximately 6,2382 in the peak
summer months. The City is dependent on this seasonal influx and must adequately understand the
issues and opportunities associated with it in order to successfully plan for the future of the Island.
Many pedestrians walk to various destinations, such as the businesses located along US 80/Butler
Avenue. Due to the locations of these businesses and other developments along US 80/Butler Avenue,
dangerous situations exist where pedestrians must cross this busy highway without adequate crossing
measures. This study examines the areas surrounding the intersections of US 80/Butler Avenue at
McKenzie Street and at US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue, as well as general
pedestrian conditions along the entire US 80/Butler Avenue corridor.
2.0 Study Area
The intersections of McKenzie Street and Tybrisa Street with US 80/Butler Avenue are two locations
along this busy thoroughfare where pedestrians routinely are present to access surrounding businesses
and amenities. The following sections will provide detail on each of these locations, including roadway
characteristics, existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and traffic and accident data. General
pedestrian improvements are also reviewed along the entire corridor. The study area is shown in Figure
1.
1 US Census 2000; Georgia Department of Community Affairs
2 City of Tybee Island Master Plan; assuming that rental units are at full capacity with an average of 2 people per
unit
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January 2010 5
Figure 1. Study Area
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 6
3.0 Existing Conditions Analysis
The following sections provide a summary of existing conditions on the two study areas, including
roadway characteristics, existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and traffic and accident data.
3.1 US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street
The intersection of McKenzie Street at US 80/Butler Avenue is
located on the northern end of the island. This area is an
emerging commercial and retail center, with businesses primarily
located on the northern side of the highway. These businesses
include First City Enterprises, Wearhouse Bargains, Seaside Sisters,
and JJ’s Beach Café. On the southern side of the highway, there
are several residences, Tybee Mini Storage, and a private pay
parking lot. There is also on‐street parking available along both sides of the highway. A large amount of
pedestrian traffic is generated by these businesses, but currently there are not adequate facilities to aid
in safe crossings of US 80 between parking facilities and the businesses. This location is shown in Figure
2 on the following page.
This intersection is currently experiencing the following issues:
o No existing pedestrian facilities are present, such as crosswalks, pedestrian signalization, or
wheelchair ramps (for pedestrians crossing US 80/Butler Avenue). However, the City is currently
in the process of installing curb‐cut ramps along this entire corridor.
o Pedestrians must cross a four‐lane highway without a mid‐road refuge area/median
o Pedestrian visibility is extremely low due to a lack of street lighting.
o The design of US 80/Butler Avenue in this area is straight and wide, causing drivers to drive at
speeds higher than the posted speed of 35 mph.
o There are no advance warning signs/markers to alert drivers of pedestrian presence; therefore,
drivers have very little expectancy of pedestrians in the area.
3.1.1 Roadway Characteristics
US 80/Butler Avenue is a four‐lane principle arterial that leads onto the island from the
northwest/Downtown Savannah area, and it travels east and south to the southern end of the island.
Between Lazaretto Creek and Estill Avenue, this is a four‐lane, divided roadway. US 80/Butler Avenue
remains four‐lanes but becomes undivided approximately 500 feet east of Estill Avenue until it
terminates at the southern end of Tybee Island. In the vicinity of McKenzie Street, the speed limit of US
80 is 35 miles per hour (mph). Travel lanes are 12.5‐feet in width, and the parking lanes are seven (7)
feet wide on the westbound side, and 7.5‐feet wide on the eastbound side. According to the Institute of
Transportation Engineers (ITE) for areas with similar land uses, on‐street parking spaces should be a
minimum of eight (8) feet in width. McKenzie Street is a two‐lane local street providing access to a
residential neighborhood. This intersection is not signalized, and US 80 is in a straight and wide, or
tangent, section at this location, which encourages higher automobile speeds, endangering pedestrians.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 7
Figure 2. McKenzie Street at US 80/Butler Avenue
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A mobile speed detector is located on US 80 immediately east of this intersection, which warns drivers
of higher speeds.
3.1.2 Existing Pedestrian Facilities
Five‐foot sidewalks are present along both sides of the highway, and handicapped ramps are available to
cross McKenzie Street. However, there are no pedestrian features, such as crosswalks or handicapped
ramps, to provide a safe crossing between the southern side of US 80 to the businesses on the northern
side. The City is currently in the process of installing curb‐cut ramps in this area.
3.2 US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street
The intersection of US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet
Avenue is on the southern end of Tybee Island, in the primary
beach business district. This area attracts a large amount of
pedestrian activity, due to the businesses located here, the
proximity to the public beach parking areas, and the close
proximity to the beach pier. Businesses located in the
immediate vicinity include a souvenir shop and convenient
store, Sunrise Restaurant, Alexander Bail Bonds, Alexander
Beverage Center, Waves Surf Shop, Rock House Bar and Grill, and apartments.
The intersection of US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue consists of five (5) legs, with US
80/Butler Avenue travelling north‐south, Tybrisa Street running east‐west, and Inlet Avenue extending
from the intersection toward the southwest. The US 80 designation ends at this intersection, but Butler
Avenue continues to the south as a two‐lane City‐maintained roadway. This location is shown in Figure 3
on the following page.
This intersection is currently experiencing the following issues:
• Pedestrians waiting to cross US 80/Butler Avenue at the crosswalk are hidden behind the on‐
street parked cars along Butler Avenue; passing drivers are not aware of their presence.
• There is very little advance signage alerting drivers of pedestrian presence.
• The five‐leg intersection is confusing for drivers, thus endangering pedestrians as vehicles try to
maneuver through the intersection.
• There is a heavy volume of left turning vehicles from US 80/Butler Avenue southbound to
Tybrisa Street eastbound.
• Due to its close proximity to the beach, a high volume of vehicles travel through the
intersection.
• A lack of signalization or stop‐signage provides priority to vehicles, without providing a
“protected” signalized pedestrian crossing phase.
• Pedestrians must cross the four‐lane highway without refuge to assess clearance at the halfway
point.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 9
Figure 3. Tybrisa Street Intersection with US 80/Butler Avenue
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January 2010 10
3.2.1 Roadway Characteristics
In the vicinity of Tybrisa Street, US 80 is a four‐lane, undivided highway with a speed limit of 30 mph. To
the north of Tybrisa Street, US 80 is a principle arterial and south it is a local street. Tybrisa Street and
Inlet Avenue are both local streets, and this intersection is not signalized. North of Tybrisa Street,
northbound travel lanes are 11 feet in width, and southbound travel lanes are 11.5 feet in width. Eight
(8)‐foot parking lanes are present along both sides of the highway. South of Tybrisa Street, travel lanes
are 11 feet wide, and angled parking spaces are located along the eastern side of the street. Tybrisa
Street is the primary street that leads to the Tybee Island Pier and a large public parking area. Tybrisa
Street is a single‐lane, one‐way facility that travels eastbound. Parallel parking is located along the
northern side of the roadway, and angled parking is located along the southern side. Businesses along
this street include Waves Surf Shop, Island Style, Wind and Rose Café, Lighthouse Pizza, Bernie’s, T.S.
Chu, Christy’s Department Store, Subway, Brass Anchor Tattoo, Doghouse Restaurant, Doc’s Bar, and a
souvenir shop.
3.2.2 Existing Pedestrian Facilities
Several pedestrian measures are currently in place at this
intersection. Five‐foot sidewalks are located along the
highway, behind a 2.5‐foot gravel buffer. There are
“stamped” (imprinted and painted concrete) crosswalks
across each leg of the intersection, and handicap ramps are
located where each crosswalk meets the sidewalk, except
along the southbound side of US 80/Butler Avenue.
However, the crossing of the southern leg of Butler Avenue
and Inlet Avenue does not tie to the handicap‐accessible
ramps that are located in the landscaped median in the center of the roadway, shown in the image
above, thereby creating a confusing situation for pedestrians using the stamped crosswalk. There are
also overhead signs in both directions along US 80/Butler Avenue, identifying the crosswalks below.
Along Tybrisa Street, sidewalks are located along both sides of the roadway.
4.0 Roadway Traffic Volumes and Safety Data
The Tybee Island Police Department maintains a traffic counter along US 80 eastbound, near Breezy
Point east of Lazaretto Creek. Average daily vehicle traffic counts at this location are shown in the table
below by month, for the years 2006, 2007, and 2008. The highest recorded traffic volumes are during
the summer months of May‐July. Detailed traffic volumes by day of the week are presented in
Appendix A.
Table 1. Eastbound Traffic Volumes at US 80/Butler Avenue and Lazaretto Creek, 2007‐2009
Month 2007 2008 2009
January No data 4,358 4,652
February No data 5,035 4,755
March 7,556 No data 6,128
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Month 2007 2008 2009
April 7,635 No data 7,806
May 8,385 9,699 8,203
June 9,181 9,143 9,312
July 9,368 8,632 10,133
August 6,931 6,659 7,735
September 6,473 5,877 6,391
October 5,807 5,218 6,594
November 4,880 4,366 No data
December 4,311 3,874 No data
Average of Weekly Averages 7,053 6,161 7,171
Source: City of Tybee Island Police Department
It should be noted that the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) maintains two traffic
counters along US 80/Butler Avenue. The first is located near the intersection of Campbell Avenue and
the second approximately near 8th Street. A review of the comparable GDOT traffic data for these two
locations shows the following average annual traffic data. This detailed data can be found in Appendix
A.
Table 2. Traffic Volumes at Two Locations along US 80/Butler Avenue, 2006‐2008
Count Location 2006 (Vehicles
per Day)
2007 (Vehicles
per Day)
2008 (Vehicles
per Day)
US 80 at Campbell Ave. (No. 0296) 8,080 9,340 8,820
US 80 at 10th St. (No. 0298) 7,930 4,580 4,320
Source: Georgia Department of Transportation
Accident reports were obtained from the City of Tybee Island Police Department. The reports indicate
that over the past three (3) years, there were only a few crashes at the study locations. At US 80/Butler
Avenue at McKenzie Street, 13 crashes were reported. At US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet
Avenue, six (6) crashes were reported. None of these crashes involved pedestrians. Details about the
crashes at each of these locations are shown below in Table 3.
Table 3. Crashes at US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street and at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue
Year
No. of Vehicle/
Vehicle
Crashes
No. of
Pedestrians
No. of
Injuries
No. of
Fatalities Contributing Factors
US 80/Butler Ave. at McKenzie Street
2007 5 0 0 0
Failure to Yield (1), Failure to Yield and
Misjudged Clearance (1), Fell Asleep (1),
Following Too Close and Distracted (1),
Sideswipe (1)
2008 2 0 0 0 Sideswipe (1), Inattentive (1)
2009 6 0 2 0
DUI/Sideswipe (1), On‐street car pulled in
front of oncoming car (1), Fell Asleep (2),
Cell phone (1), Improper U‐Turn (1)
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 12
Year
No. of Vehicle/
Vehicle
Crashes
No. of
Pedestrians
No. of
Injuries
No. of
Fatalities Contributing Factors
US 80/Butler Ave. at Tybrisa St./Inlet Ave.
2007 1 1 (Cyclist) 0 0
Improper Backing (1), Failure to Yield:
Cyclist hit at 11:00 pm at night (1) ‐ only
damaged rear of bike
2008 2 0 0 0 Improper Backing (1), Sideswipe (1)
2009 3 0 0 0 Improper Backing (1), Driver Condition
(1), Hit and Run (1)
Source: City of Tybee Island Police Department
5.0 Coordination with Other Plans and Studies
The following section provides information on other plans and studies that are currently underway or
recently completed. Details of these plans in relation to pedestrian transportation in these identified
areas are given below.
5.1 Tybee Island Master Plan
The Community Assessment of the City of Tybee Island’s Comprehensive Plan, the Tybee Island Master
Plan, was completed in March of 2007. This plan was written to guide the future planning efforts for
Tybee Island. In order to begin making recommendations for Tybee Island, issues and opportunities
were first identified for consideration. Transportation issues and opportunities identified in the US
80/McKenzie Street and the US 80/Tybrisa Street areas are shown in the following table.
Table 4. Transportation Issues and Opportunities, Tybee Island Master Plan
Issues Fast moving traffic along Butler Avenue is not a safe environment for pedestrians.
The pedestrian/biking environment needs improvement.
Opportunities Implement a streetscape initiative to plant more trees on Butler Avenue.
Consider implementation of vegetated median along Butler Avenue to ease traffic,
make crossing safer for pedestrians, and improve the aesthetic of the corridor.
Identify alternative biking and walking routes and work to improve the pedestrian
environment to encourage people to walk short distances rather than drive.
Continue to develop the Tybee Greenway/Bikeway and connect it to McQueen’s
Trail.
Acquire property easements and right of way from property owners to complete the
Tybee Island Greenway/Bikeway
Work to create an on‐island shuttle service.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 13
Conduct a parking study that evaluates parking alternatives, including:
o Investigate parking alignments along Butler Ave. that are more conducive to
pedestrian crossing and traffic movement.
o Identify additional parking areas on Tybee Island and explore attractive multi‐
level parking.
o Consider the potential of an attractively designed multi‐use public parking
structure, potentially associated with hotel.
Utilize the unopened road rights of way to create multi‐use trails.
Source: Community Assessment, Tybee Island Master Plan, March, 2007.
Additionally, strengths and needs were also identified. Strengths identified regarding transportation
alternatives in the study areas of US 80 at McKenzie Street and at Tybrisa Street are:
• There is an existing demand for pedestrian and bicycling opportunities.
• A network of bike paths and multi‐use trails exists or is planned within the City.
• The City has begun acquiring land for a path
Needs include:
• Better signage is needed to notify vehicles of high pedestrian areas.
• Butler Avenue needs improvements to create a safer area for pedestrian traffic.
• The City should continue to support the development/implementation of the Tybee Island
Bikeway and Multi‐Use Trail.
The Plan also notes that as alternative transportation modes are sought, there are multiple roadway
rights of way that are currently unopened, but maintained by the City, totally approximately five (5)
miles. These rights of way provide an opportunity for the City to enhance pedestrian mobility by bicycle
routes and trails, and improving sidewalks.
Additionally, GDOT is seeking to include bicycle facilities along US 80 onto Tybee Island as part of the
design of the new Lazaretto Creek Bridge. The City is concurrently working on property acquisition to
continue this planned bicycle facility from the Lazaretto Creek Bridge to the Tybee Island Pier and
Pavilion, as a greenway/multi‐use trail. The Tybee Island Corridor is a proposed bike lane included as
part of the Chatham County Bikeway Plan. This corridor is planned along US 80 for 15 miles from the
Wilmington Island Bridge (in Thunderbolt) to 19th Street on Tybee Island.
The Master Plan defines the US 80/McKenzie Street area in the “Arts, Eats, Eco Activity Center”
character area. This designation identifies this area as an activity center that offers a variety of crafts,
shopping, restaurants, and eco‐tourism. The Master Plan recommends that this character area should
implement streetscape improvements in order to enhance the pedestrian experience. The US
80/Tybrisa Street area is defined as part of the Tybrisa Neighborhood, which includes a mix of
residential uses, including single‐family, multi‐family, and vacation rentals. The plan recommends that
development in this area should be pedestrian‐oriented with safe connections to adjacent
neighborhoods and commercial areas.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 14
The City of Tybee Island currently operates a “pay and display” parking system throughout the Island.
These are located in various areas of the island, particularly in the Beach Business District on the
southern end of the Island. Main parking lots are located adjacent to the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion
on the southern end of the Island, and at the beach, lighthouse, and Fort Screven Museum at the
northern end of the Island.
Table 5 below shows transportation‐related projects recommended by the Tybee Island Master Plan.
Table 5. City of Tybee Island Master Plan Transportation Recommendations
Project Year Starting Responsible Party
Conduct a transportation engineering study in accordance with
Issues and Opportunities Identified in this Plan, to include the
following elements:
o Explore possibility of taking control of US 80/Butler
Avenue
o Investigate potential to reinstall median along US
80/Butler Avenue
o Explore potential to offer subsidize open‐air trolley
services around the Island to reduce traffic
o Explore charging additional “hotel tax” to help fund a
city subsidized on and off island transportation system.
o Investigate potential to make US 80/Butler Avenue a toll
road
o Investigate need and potential to locate a parking
garage on the island
o Investigate feasibility of using commercial parking lots
for public parking
o Develop “peak use” contingency for parking
o Explore the potential for providing employee
transportation for Island workers
2009 City, CORE
Coordinate with GDOT to ensure that any widening of the
Lazaretto Creek Bridge includes a separate bike lane. 2008 City
Encourage development of the bikeway to connect Tybee Island
with Wilmington Island. 2008 City
As part of Land Code Update, develop zoning overlay to require
easements from property owners along Highway 80 to
complete the Tybee Island/Wilmington Bikeway.
2009 City
Develop multi‐use paths throughout the City. 2011 City
Support and implement beautification and streetscaping along
Butler Avenue/Highway 80. 2011 City
Bring level of service up to streets designated use. 2008 City
Implement Tybrisa Streetscaping project. 2008 City
Source: Community Agenda, Tybee Island Master Plan, March, 2007.
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5.2 Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study
The Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study was recently conducted in October of 2004. The purpose of
this study was to evaluate traffic and parking conditions in the City of Tybee Island and identify potential
recommendations for improvement. The study primarily focuses on US 80/Butler Avenue and the North
Beach and South Beach areas. Traffic study along US 80/Butler Avenue was particularly centered
around several key intersections:
• US 80 at Campbell Street
• US 80 at Jones Avenue
• US 80 at 14th Street
• US 80 at 12th Street
• US 80 at Tybrisa Street
• Tybrisa Street at Strand Avenue/Lot 2
Exist/Lot 1 Entrance
• Butler Avenue at 18th Street
• Meddin Drive at Gullick Street/North
Beach Lot Entrance/Fort Screven
Entrance
In order to make recommendations, this study examined existing parking facilities, historical crash data,
and intersection movements. The study found that the intersection at US 80/Tybrisa Street operates at
a level of service (LOS) B. LOS is measured from the peak hour conditions and daily traffic volumes at
the intersection. It is represented on a scale from A to F, with A representing free‐flow conditions
without delay and F representing heavy congestion. Even though the overall intersection operates at
LOS B, the Tybrisa Street eastbound leg operates at LOS C because of a long delay (an average of 18.7
seconds per vehicle) for this movement. The City has considered a potential signal at this intersection
due to the confusing configuration and the delay. However, it does not meet the Federal Highway
Administration’s (FHWA) signal warrants given by the current edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices. The study recommends that the City continue to monitor traffic volumes and travel
patterns at this intersection, as a signal may be warranted in the future.
The Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study presented recommendations for short term projects, long
term projects, and projects for further study. The study’s recommendations are shown in Table 6.
Table 6. Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study Recommendations
Recommendations
Short Term Projects
Add signage indicating public beach access and parking at all beach access points along US 80/Butler
Avenue.
Limit parking on Tybrisa Street (east of Butler Avenue) to one hour to encourage turnover, discourage
beach parking, and increase the availability of parking for retail and restaurant patrons. Add signage
indicating limited parking duration and modify existing meters.
Enhanced signage at entrance to North Beach Lot/Museum indicating location of parking facilities, type
of parking (pay, metered, etc.) and purpose of parking areas.
Add a striped pedestrian crossing on Meddin Drive at the north end of Tom Lynch Loop, between the
lighthouse and the metered parking lot. Add low‐level fence or shrubs to direct pedestrians to the
crossing.
Add eastbound and westbound left turn signal/phase on US 80 at Campbell Avenue.
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January 2010 16
Recommendations
Add 5‐head signal for southbound left turn lane at US 80 at 14th Street to allow for a southbound left
turn plus thru movement overlap phase.
Stripe the paved shoulder on US 80 at the intersection of Jones Avenue to discourage the use of the
paved shoulder as a right turn lane or as a thru lane across the intersection for cars parked on the
shoulder area.
For the northbound approach to US 80 at Jones Avenue, add signage and pavement markings directing
vehicles to not block driveway (of the BP station on the southeast corner of the intersection).
Long Term Projects
Implement improved circulation plan for the South Beach parking lots 1 and 2 and associated
ingress/egress improvements at 14th Street, 15th Street, Tybrisa Street, 17th Street and 18th Street.
Improve North Beach parking lot with a stabilized base and designated parking lot layout and circulation
plan.
Reconstruct the entrances to the North Beach lot and Museum parking lot and provide enhanced
signage.
Secure the current overflow parking lot on US 80 for a long term lease and/or purchase. Provide a
stabilized pavement base for the lot and utilize as a satellite lot in conjunction with the implementation
of a shuttle system.
If satellite lot is effective and utilized, identify a larger parcel to be used as satellite lot for long term
lease or purchase.
Further Study
Conduct a stated preference survey of residents and visitors to identify potential price points for:
increase in parking fees, “premium” parking rates, and potential toll rates.
Detailed parking utilization study to identify mix of parking users (residents/seasonal visitors/day
visitors) and to develop a parking utilization profile throughout the day during a summer weekend day
condition.
Annually monitor traffic during the typical summer weekend period at the established US 80 segments
and key intersections.
Conduct a toll financial feasibility study to identify the potential revenue stream, projects to be funded
with the revenue stream and sensitivity of toll rates.
Source: Tybee Island Traffic and Parking Study, October, 2004.
5.3 Chatham County Bikeway Plan
As mentioned previously, the Chatham County Bikeway Plan identifies that US 80/Butler Avenue is
designated to have a planned paved shoulder, called the “Tybee Island Corridor”. This facility is planned
to include a paved shoulder 4.5 feet in width.
The map on the following page shows the planned bicycle facility for Tybee Island, according to the
Chatham County Bikeway Plan. The project is designated a “Priority 4” in the Plan, meaning that the
project does not yet have committed funds for design and construction.
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January 2010 17
Figure 4. Tybee Island Planned Bicycle Facilities
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January 2010 18
6.0 Recommendations
In order to improve pedestrian safety at each of these intersections, pedestrian improvement
recommendations have been developed based upon prior experience, engineering judgment and
through a review of various resources. The following sections provide detailed recommendations for
each location.
6.1 US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Avenue
This report proposes four potential improvement options for this intersection, including two short‐
term/low cost options and two long‐term/higher cost options. Each option is detailed below.
6.1.1 Short‐Term/Low‐Cost Alternative
As part of the Short‐Term/Low Cost improvement alternative, two options are presented. The various
options include two similar improvements of nearly the same cost, and are detailed below.
Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 1: Add Raised Crosswalk and Curb Extensions at Intersection
Option 1 proposes the addition of a raised crosswalk, sometimes known as a speed table, with curb
extensions on the western side of the intersection with McKenzie Street, to the inside edge of the
existing on‐street parking. A curb extension is effectively an extension of the sidewalk that extends into
the roadway, in lieu of the existing parking lanes. Not only are raised crosswalks extremely visible to
motorists and provide a physical measure for which to slow down, they are also a low cost measure to
enhance the pedestrian crossing. Further, curb extensions are an effective traffic calming measure,
creating a road‐narrowing feeling for the driver, which in turn compels them to slow down for the
crossing. A raised crosswalk with curb extensions is illustrated in Figure 5 on the following page.
A disadvantage to the raised crosswalk is that they are difficult for bicyclists to navigate, but cuts can be
made through the crosswalk o accommodate bicycles. Because US 80 is designated as a future location
for a bike route (as a paved shoulder), it is desirable for bicyclists to continue through this intersection
with ease to access businesses and attractions beyond this point. Additionally, the City of Tybee Island
is currently installing curb‐cut ramps at all existing pedestrian crossings that do not currently have them.
With the proposed raised crosswalks, these curb‐cut ramps would no longer be necessary because the
entire crosswalk would remain at sidewalk level, so the new ramps would have to be removed.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 19
Figure 5. Raised Crosswalk with Curb Extensions
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Low cost solutions
o Driver speeds are reduced by raised crosswalk and road‐narrowing effect from curb extensions
o Majority of existing parking is retained
o Has a traffic calming effect
o Gives drivers advance warning of crossing
o Effective street width is reduced
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Increases greenspace area
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
Disadvantages:
o Perception exists that raised crosswalks hinder emergency vehicles.
o Raised crosswalks are not preferred by bicyclists.
o Newly installed curb ramps could not be utilized and would be removed.
o Drainage impacts need consideration.
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 20
Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 2: Add a Refuge Island and Curb Extensions
Option 2 proposes adding curb extensions similar to Option 1,
as well as a median refuge island in the center of the roadway,
to the west of the intersection with McKenzie Street. This
median should be a minimum of five feet in width. With the
addition of these two measures, the existing on‐street parking
would be replaced at this location, affecting approximately
two spaces in either direction of the roadway. It has been
shown that with the presence of medians, even small refuge
islands, the pedestrian crash risk is decreased. Additionally,
aesthetics in the area would be enhanced with palm trees
planted in this island.
Curb extensions act as a traffic calming measure, giving motorists the feel that the roadway is
narrowing, thus encouraging them to reduce speeds. Because the City of Tybee Island is currently
installing curb‐cut ramps at all pedestrian crossings that do not currently have them, it is recommended
that the proposed curb extensions be implemented in one of
two ways:
1) Striping or concrete curbing/backstops that delineate
“bump‐out” area only on the side of crosswalk facing
oncoming traffic: these would create a road‐narrowing
effect for drivers, as well as an area where pedestrians
are more visible while they wait to cross. If concrete
curbing is used, it should be painted with reflective
yellow paint in order to stand out to motorists.
2) Planted concrete “bump‐outs” on the side of crosswalk
facing oncoming traffic. In addition to creating a road‐
narrowing effect for drivers and providing an area where
pedestrians are visible while waiting to cross, it also
enhances the area’s aesthetics with the addition of
plantings, such as grass and palm trees.
This option proposes traditional “ladder” crosswalk striping,
which is an effective way of making the crosswalk more visible
to vehicles. Because the crosswalk is flush with the roadway surface, it is considered “bicycle friendly”
and allows for bicycles to easily operate through the crossing. This option is shown in the image to the
right and the illustration on the following page.
The refuge island proposed for US 80/Butler Avenue is five (5) feet in width. Because of the presence of
on‐street parking along the highway (seven feet in width along westbound side, 7.5 feet along
eastbound side), adding the refuge island is possible by narrowing the existing lanes or by eliminating
1
2
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 21
the on‐street parking in areas adjacent to the islands. East of McKenzie Street, the existing lanes must
then be tapered back in from either side to allow for the on‐street parking. Because the speed limit is
35 mph, the lanes must then be tapered symmetrically at the rate of:
(width of refuge island/2) x (speed) 2 = (5/2) x (35) 2 = 51 feet
60 60
This distance means that for 51 feet beyond either side of the pedestrian refuge island, the lanes would
taper out in order to create enough space for the island. From the start of these tapers through the
length of the median, the roadway could not accommodate the recommended eight‐foot on‐street
parking lanes (without narrowing the travel lanes from 12.5 feet to 11.5 feet), but beyond this taper
distance, the parking could return. In order to utilize the refuge island to aid in creating a “gateway”
feeling entering the heart of Tybee Island, it is recommended that the refuge islands be large enough to
hold several palm trees. This could potentially be implemented as a “Donate a Tree” program in which
citizens could participate.
Figure 6. Refuge Island with Curb Extensions
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 22
Advantages:
o Low cost solutions
o Driver speeds are reduced by road‐narrowing effect from the curb extensions
o Majority of existing parking is retained
o Gives drivers advance warning of crossing
o Effective street width is reduced by curb extensions
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Provides a pedestrian refuge area
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost where curb extensions would be located
6.1.2 Long‐Term/Higher Cost Improvements
Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 1: Extend US 80/Butler Avenue Median from West
Currently, a median is present along US 80 from the Lazaretto Creek bridge to Teresa Lane. This option
proposes extending this median further to the east approximately 1500 feet, to the intersection with
McKenzie Street, where it would terminate at a crosswalk. Not only would this serve as a pedestrian
refuge in the center of the roadway, but it would also be a gateway into the heart of the business
district on the Island and would bring back the historic feel to the corridor with the addition of palm
trees in the median. This refuge would allow pedestrians to cross one leg of traffic, and then remain in
the median while waiting for clearance to cross the second leg. Median presence is known to decrease
the risk of pedestrian crashes. With the installation of the median, it would also be necessary to
incorporate access management features, such as median openings in select locations, so that the
surrounding businesses can easily be accessed. GDOT advises that median openings should be spaced
between 660 and 1000 feet apart along divided highways.
As public involvement activities were conducted for the current Comprehensive Plan for the City of
Tybee Island in 2007, the public was asked if they are in favor of installing a tree‐lined median on
Highway 80 and Butler Avenue. The majority (54.8 percent, or 351 votes) of respondents were in favor
of this improvement, while 35.4 percent (227 votes) were against it, and 9.8% (63 votes) had no opinion.
Because the public are in support of this improvement, it is proposed as a long‐term improvement due
to the time and cost required to design and construct the project.
The existing median along US 80/Butler Avenue to the west is ten feet in width. Because of the
presence of on‐street parking along the highway (seven feet in width along either side), maintaining the
current median width is possible by doing away with this existing parking. East of McKenzie Street, the
existing lanes must then be tapered back in from either side to allow for the on‐street parking. Because
the speed limit is 35 mph, the lanes must then be tapered symmetrically at the rate of:
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 23
(width of median/2) x (speed) 2 = (10/2) x (35) 2 = 102 feet
60 60
This distance means that for 102 feet beyond either side of the median, the lanes would taper out in
order to create enough space for the median. For this distance, the roadway could not accommodate
the recommended eight‐foot on‐street parking lanes, but beyond this taper distance, the parking could
return.
A cut through the median at street level should be installed to provide a level path for the entire
distance across the roadway. Detectable warnings should be placed at the edge of both sides of the
median.
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Median provides a refuge while pedestrians attempt to cross roadway
o Drivers given advance warning of crossing
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
o Improves pedestrian connectivity along a longer stretch of the US 80/Butler Avenue corridor
o Palm trees in median enhance aesthetics of the area
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost
o Some business accessibility would be decreased
o Median installation brings drainage impacts; analysis required.
Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 2: Extend US 80/Butler Avenue Median from West with Lane Shift
Similar to Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 1, this option proposes extending the existing median along US
80/Butler Avenue from its current termination at Teresa Lane to McKenzie Avenue, where it would end
with a crosswalk. However, in order to retain a greater number of on‐street parking spaces, Option 2
proposes shifting the eastbound lanes approximately 8.5 feet to the south so that parking could be
retained on the north. This would require the current lane widths of 12.5 feet to be reduced to 12 feet,
the median to be 8 feet in width, and the parking lane on the westbound side to be 8 feet in width, as
recommended by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). This median would serve as a refuge
island for pedestrians as they cross US 80/Butler Avenue. Similar to the previous option, it could be
planted with palm trees that would help to create the feel of a gateway into the heart of Tybee Island,
as well as bring back the former historic look to the corridor. With the installation of the median, it
would also be necessary to incorporate access management features, such as median openings in select
locations, so that the surrounding businesses can easily be accessed. As previously stated, GDOT advises
that median openings should be spaced between 660 and 1000 feet apart along divided highways.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 24
In order for this lane shift to occur, the eastbound lanes must be tapered at the rate shown below. East
of McKenzie Street, the eastbound lanes and median must be tapered back in from either side to return
to the original lane configuration.
(width of median) x (speed) 2 = (8) x (35) 2 = 164 feet
60 60
At the start and end of the extended median, the eastbound lanes should taper to the south over a
distance of 164 feet. The configuration of the median, crosswalk, and taper is shown in the figure on the
following page.
As with Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 1, a cut through the median at street level should be installed to
provide a level path for the entire distance across the roadway. Detectable warnings should be placed
at the edge of both sides of the median.
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Median provides a refuge while pedestrians attempt to cross roadway
o Half of existing parking is retained
o Gives drivers advance warning of crossing
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
o Improves pedestrian connectivity along a longer stretch of the US 80/Butler Avenue corridor
o Palm trees in median enhance aesthetics of the area
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost on southern side of US 80/Butler Avenue.
o Some business accessibility would be decreased
o Median installation brings drainage impacts; analysis required.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 25
Figure 7. US 80/Butler Avenue at McKenzie Street: Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 2
Table 7 on the following page summarizes each improvement scenario recommended for this
intersection, as well as advantages and disadvantages to each. The scenarios are broken up into short‐
term/low cost and long‐term/higher cost solutions.
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
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City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
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6.1.3 Improvements Recommended for both the Short‐Term/Low Cost and Long‐Term/Higher
Cost Alternatives
In addition to the previous improvement options, the following improvements are recommended for all
alternatives:
• Install enhanced advance warning signage: It is crucial to warn motorists of upcoming
pedestrian crossings within an adequate time to reduce speeds. Drivers should also be made
aware that it is a state law to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, as indicated by the standard
paddle pedestrian crossing sign (R1‐6a), shown below. This paddle sign should be placed in the
center of the roadway, at the crosswalk, at a height that is visible to vehicles in both travel lanes.
The W11‐2 and W16‐9p signs, shown below, should also be employed in advance of crosswalks.
• Yield lines in advance of crosswalks (shown in the image below): The Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) states that if drivers yield too close to a crosswalk on multi‐lane
approaches, pedestrians are placed at risk because other drivers’ views of pedestrians are
blocked.3 Yield lines will make motorists aware of the preferred stopping location as
pedestrians cross the roadway. On a multi‐lane highway, this striping allows for better visibility
of pedestrians from all lanes of traffic. This striping should also be used in conjunction with the
3 Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Federal Highway Administration, 2003.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 28
“Yield Here to Pedestrian” sign, shown below (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices sign
R1‐5), so that vehicles understand the meaning of the yield striping.
Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 2003
Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 2003
• Street lighting: Street lighting in this area will create a safer environment for pedestrians by
making them more visible to drivers. Currently, the darkness in this area endangers pedestrians.
• Curb‐cut ramps at transitions from sidewalks to crosswalks: This will provide a smooth
transition between the sidewalk and crosswalk, primarily for pedestrians using wheelchairs.
These ramps must be compatible with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), for which
further guidance is given by GDOT construction detail A3 (provided in Appendix B). These
ramps should also include detectable warnings (truncated domes) to insure that visually
impaired pedestrians are able to identify this transition to the crosswalk.
6.2 US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue
This report proposes three potential improvement options for this intersection, including two short‐
term/low cost options and one long‐term/higher cost option. Each option is detailed below.
6.2.1 Short‐Term/Low Cost Improvements
As part of the Short‐Term/Low Cost improvement alternative, two options are presented. The various
options include two similar improvements of similar cost, and are detailed below.
Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 1: Remove Access to Inlet Avenue and Add All‐Way Stop at Intersection
Removing access to Inlet Avenue would in turn transform this five‐leg intersection into a traditional
four‐leg intersection with a stop condition for all movements. This would eliminate vehicle‐pedestrian
conflict points and result in a design that is much easier and safer for pedestrians to traverse. The
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 29
outside southbound lane on Butler Avenue would become “right turn only” onto Tybrisa Street, and the
inside lane would become a through lane on Butler Avenue or a left turn onto Tybrisa Street. With the
closing of Inlet Avenue, the existing small island could be expanded onto the existing Inlet Avenue right
of way, and a small “pocket park” could greatly enhance the pedestrian experience and aesthetics in the
area. In addition to the monument and fountain that are currently present, enhanced landscaping and
benches could be installed. Because this is located in the heart of the beach business district, this park
would serve as an additional attractor, bringing pedestrians to the surrounding business as well.
Further, this greenspace could be expanded in the future should the City decide to purchase additional
parcels adjacent to the park. The existing stamped crosswalks throughout the intersection would
remain in place. An illustration of this option is shown below.
Because of this location in the heart of the beach business district surrounded by merchants including
Arby’s and Chu’s, it is essential to ensure that adequate access and parking is maintained for these
businesses. If this short block of Inlet Avenue immediately south of Tybrisa Street is closed, access to
these businesses would still be provided by way of Lowell Avenue to the west and the existing cut‐
through from Butler Avenue to Inlet Avenue in front of Arby’s. Existing parking for these businesses
would not be affected by the closure, but Chu’s would require a relocated entrance to the parking lot.
Figure 8. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Avenue, Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 1
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
ONE WAY
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 30
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Low cost solutions
o Confusion at multi‐leg intersection is resolved with a more traditional intersection
o Area greenspace is greatly enhanced through the addition of a pocket park
o Majority of existing parking is retained
o Gives drivers advance warning of crossing
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
o Effective street width is reduced
o Vehicle speeds are reduced through the All Way Stop and road‐narrowing effect of curb
extensions
o Pedestrian experience in the area will be improved, and will bring pedestrian traffic to
surrounding businesses
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost where curb extensions would be located
o Loss of current access configuration surrounding business on Inlet Avenue from US 80
Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 2: Add Median Refuge Island across US 80/Butler Avenue
As stated in previous options, the addition of medians in pedestrian crossings decreases the risk to
pedestrians as they cross, because they are able to cross one direction of traffic and remain in the
median while waiting for clearance to cross the second leg. This option proposes installation of a
median island only on the crossing of the northern leg of US 80/Butler Avenue. This is proposed only on
this leg of the intersection for several reasons:
• This is the busiest leg of this intersection.
• There is an existing landscaped island between Butler Avenue and Inlet Avenue, and this will be
used for the same purpose.
• Tybrisa Street eastbound is only a one‐way, single lane roadway, thus installation in the center is
not possible.
In order to install this island, several of the existing on‐street parking spaces must be removed in order
to widen the travelway slightly and place the island. GDOT recommends these islands to be at least five
feet in width. The remaining six feet of the existing parking lanes in the northeast and northwest
quadrants would be used for small curb extensions, as described in section 6.1.1 (McKenzie St. Short‐
Term/Low Cost Option 2). A curb extension would also be installed in the southeast quadrant of the
intersection. The existing crossing of Butler Avenue would be redirected to the existing landscaped
island, so that pedestrians could use it as a refuge prior to crossing the next leg of the intersection. This
option is shown in the following illustration.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 31
Figure 9. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Ave, Short‐Term/Low Cost Option 2
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Low cost solutions
o Pedestrians given refuge as they cross US 80/Butler Avenue
o Majority of existing parking is retained
o Gives drivers advance warning of crossing
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
o Effective street width is reduced
o Pedestrians crossing southern leg of Butler Avenue now given refuge in existing island, as
crosswalk is redirected
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost where curb extensions would be located
o Confusing, five‐way intersection remains
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 32
6.2.2 Long‐Term/Higher Cost Improvements
Long‐Term/Higher Cost Option 1: Road Diet: Remove outside Lanes on US 80/Butler Avenue and
Install Median and Curb Extensions
This option proposes a “road diet,” or removing the outside lanes on US 80/Butler Avenue and instead
installing a landscaped median along the roadway and curb extensions at the Tybrisa Street/Inlet
Avenue intersection. This option would greatly enhance the pedestrian experience through this area
with wider sidewalks, enhanced streetscaping, a landscaped median, and less vehicular exposure. In
December of 2008, the City of Tybee Island evaluated conceptual configurations on the south end of the
Island between 14th Street and Tybrisa Street, one of which consists of a reduction of lanes from two to
one, a median with palm trees, and angled parking. This long‐term option reflects the conceptual
scheme that was previously evaluated by the City. A second concept that was evaluated by the City
consisted of the addition of a landscaped median while maintaining two travel lanes in each direction
and on‐street parallel parking along both sides of the roadway. It included changing the southern leg of
Butler Avenue to one‐way travel, eliminating the southbound movement and instead having two
northbound travel lanes, one of which is a right‐turn‐only lane onto Tybrisa Street. Additionally, the
straight movement on the western leg of Tybrisa Street is not permitted; traffic must turn right onto
Inlet Avenue. Conceptual drawings can be found in Appendix D.
The existing on‐street parallel parking would be modified to angled parking, which would allow for more
parking spaces than the existing parallel parking does. Because one lane of auto traffic would be
removed in each direction along US 80/Butler Avenue, pedestrian safety would be improved because
there would be fewer conflict points with vehicles. Additionally, the center median would serve as a
refuge for pedestrians after they cross one leg of traffic and assess the second leg before crossing. It
could be planted with palm trees that would help to create the feel of a gateway into the heart of Tybee
Island, as well as bring back the former historic look to the corridor. The US 80 designation ends at the
intersection with Tybrisa Street/Inlet Avenue, and the road continues south as Butler Avenue. A
monument in the center of the existing island between Inlet Avenue and Butler Avenue depicts the end
of US 80 ‐ Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway. Because of the lower traffic volumes in this area
and a high number of left‐turning vehicles from southbound US 80/Butler Avenue to eastbound Tybrisa
Street, the loss of a lane would not impede traffic flow. This option is shown in the figure on the
following page.
The following are advantages and disadvantages presented by this option.
Advantages:
o Pedestrians given refuge as they cross US 80/Butler Avenue
o Additional parking spaces gained by new configuration with angled parking
o Drivers given advance warning of crossing
o Visibility of pedestrians is increased
o Accommodates impaired pedestrians
o Effective street width is reduced
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 33
o Pedestrians crossing southern leg of Butler Avenue now given refuge in existing island, as
crosswalk is redirected
o An added bike lane could be accommodated
o Palm trees in median enhance aesthetics of the area
Disadvantages:
o Parking spaces would be lost where curb extensions would be located
o Confusing, five‐way intersection remains
o May cause some worsening of congestion with the added bottleneck of only one through lane in
each direction
o Angled parking requires cars to back out of parking spaces into traffic, which could be difficult to
negotiate with only one travel lane, and could impair the traffic flow of the one travel lane.
Figure 10. Tybrisa Street at US 80/Butler Ave, Long‐Term Option 1
Table 8 on the following page summarizes each improvement scenario recommended for this
intersection, as well as advantages and disadvantages to each. The scenarios are broken up into short‐
term/low cost and long‐term/higher cost solutions.
Note: Graphic Not to Scale
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City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 35
6.2.3 Improvements Recommended for both the Short‐Term/Low‐Cost and Long‐Term/Higher
Cost Alternatives
Several improvements are recommended for implementation along with each of the previous options.
These include:
• Install enhanced advance warning signage: It is crucial to warn motorists of upcoming
pedestrian crossings within an adequate time to reduce speeds. Drivers should also be made
aware that it is a state law to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, as indicated by the standard
paddle pedestrian crossing sign. This paddle sign should be placed in the center of the roadway,
at the crosswalk, at a height that is visible to vehicles in both travel lanes.
The W11‐2 and W16‐9p signs, shown below, should also be employed in advance of crosswalks.
Curb extensions at each corner: These extensions would increase the visibility of pedestrians as they try
to cross the roadway. Curb extensions are an effective traffic calming measure, creating a road‐
narrowing feeling for the driver, which in turn compels them to slow down for the crossing. Because the
City of Tybee Island is currently installing curb‐cut ramps at all pedestrian crossings that do not currently
have them, it is recommended that the proposed curb extensions be implemented in one of two ways,
to enable the city to make use of its investment:
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 36
1) Striping or concrete curbing/backstops that delineate “bump‐out” area only on the side of
crosswalk facing oncoming traffic: these would create a road‐narrowing effect for drivers, as
well as an area where pedestrians are more visible while they wait to cross. If concrete curbing
is used, it should be painted with reflective yellow paint in order to stand out to motorists.
2) Planted concrete “bump‐outs” on the side of crosswalk facing oncoming traffic. In addition to
creating a road‐narrowing effect for drivers and providing an area where pedestrians are visible
while waiting to cross, it also enhances the area’s aesthetics with the addition of plantings, such
as grass and palm trees.
• Yield lines in advance of crossing: Yield lines will make motorists aware of the preferred
stopping location as pedestrian cross the roadway. On a multi‐lane highway, this striping allows
for better visibility of pedestrians from all lanes of traffic. Similar to the recommended
improvements at McKenzie Street, this striping should be used in conjunction with the “Yield
Here to Pedestrian” sign (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices sign R‐5), so that vehicles
understand the meaning of the yield striping.
• Curb ramps at transitions from sidewalks to crosswalks: These ramps are currently present at
all quadrants of this intersection, with the exception of the southbound side of Butler Avenue.
Details of these ramps can be found in Appendix B.
6.3 General Recommendations for US 80/Butler Avenue Corridor
In addition to the recommendations made previously that are specific to the McKenzie Avenue and
Tybrisa Street areas, this section provides supplementary
recommendations for other locations along the US
80/Butler Avenue corridor. Currently, there are several
existing crossings of US 80/Butler Avenue in place at
several unsignalized locations. These consist of red,
stamped concrete crosswalks with a 3.5‐foot wide concrete
refuge island, reflectors, and a paddle pedestrian sign. An
example is shown in the photo to the right.
According to FHWA, the standard recommended width for this type of pedestrian median refuge islands
is a minimum of four (4) feet; however, GDOT prefers a five (5) foot width, or six feet where bicycles are
present. Because US 80/Butler Avenue separates many residences, condominiums, and hotels from
21
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 37
beach access, many people cross the highway daily in order to reach the beach, and often with much
beach equipment and families in tow. This should be considered as refuge islands are constructed, so
that an adequate refuge area is provided to these pedestrians. The locations of available parking
facilities should also be taken into account as pedestrian crossing locations are identified. Islands should
be widened to meet at least the minimum requirements. These islands can be further enhanced with
the addition of low plantings and palm trees, which would improve aesthetics in the area and restore
the historic look and feel of the corridor.
Detectable warnings for the visually impaired are not present in these islands. These warnings, such as
truncated domes, are crucial for the safety of the visually impaired because they enable the pedestrian
to detect the transition from the crosswalk to the island, making them aware that they are in a refuge
where it is safe to wait to cross the second leg of traffic. Detectable warnings should be added to these
refuge islands. Because these locations do not provide adequate signage to notify motorists of the
presence of pedestrians, advance warning signage should be installed to alert drivers to pedestrians.
This signage should be similar to that detailed in Section 6.1.3. The W11‐2 and W16‐9p signs, shown
below, should be employed in advance of crosswalks, and the R1‐5 sign should be utilized at the
crosswalk itself. This additional signage will forewarn motorists of upcoming crossings, encouraging
them to slow and yield to pedestrians.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 38
Pedestrian visibility in these locations would be further enhanced if curb extensions are added in place
of an existing on‐street parking space. As discussed in previous sections, curb extensions create a road‐
narrowing effect that slows drivers and decreases the effective street width that pedestrians must cross.
Street lighting is also imperative for pedestrian visibility. In order to utilize the newly‐installed curb‐cut
ramps along the corridor, it is recommended that curb extensions be implemented in one of two ways
(as previously discussed in section 6.1.1): 1) striping or concrete curbing/backstops that delineate
“bump‐out” area on the side of crosswalk facing oncoming traffic, or 2) planted concrete “bump‐outs”
on the side of crosswalk facing oncoming traffic. Finally, in locations where there is not existing lighting,
it should be added.
In summary, the following measures should be utilized at pedestrian crossings along US 80/Butler
Avenue to provide adequate safety for pedestrians:
• Planted refuge islands should be a minimum of five feet in width for pedestrians, to six feet for
bicycles.
• Detectable warning surfaces should be used at all sidewalk/crosswalk transitions.
• Advance warning signage should be installed prior to all crossings, as well as the standard
paddle pedestrian sign at each crossing.
• Curb extensions, whether curbed or painted, should be installed wherever space permits.
• Street lighting should be in place.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 39
6.4 Cost Estimates
Costs of the previously identified recommendations are detailed in the table below.
Table 9. Estimated Construction Costs for Recommended Improvements
Sources: GDOT, Institute for Transportation Engineering, North Carolina Department of Transportation, www.trafficcalming.org
Option Measures Cost
US
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Short‐Term/Low Cost
Option 1
Curb Extensions $3,000
Raised Crosswalk $5,000
Signage $200
Curb Cut Ramps (2) $600
Striping $350
Total this Option $9,150
Short‐Term/Low Cost
Option 2
Refuge Island $5,000
Concrete Curbing/Backstops $1,300
Signage $200
Curb Cut Ramps (2) $600
Striping $450
Total this Option $7,550
Long Term/Higher Cost
Option 1
Extend median approx. 1500 feet $30,000
Curb Cut Ramps (1) $300
Signage $150
Striping $1,750
Total this Option $32,200
Long Term/Higher Cost
Option 2
Extend median approx. 1500 feet $30,000
Curb Cut Ramps (1) $300
Signage $150
Striping $1,750
Total this Option $32,200
US
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Option 1
Close Inlet Ave./Extend island $6,000
Concrete Curbing/Backstops $1,950
Curb Cut Ramps $600
Signage $300
Striping $640
Total this Option $9,490
Short Term/Low Cost
Option 2
Concrete Curbing/Backstops $2,600
Refuge Island $5,000
Signage $300
Striping $675
Total this Option $8,575
Long Term/Higher Cost
Option 1
Median (approx. 500 feet) $10,000
Concrete Curbing/Backstops $2,600
Signage $300
Striping $675
Total this Option $13,575
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 A1
Appendix A
Traffic Data
Date: Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Weekly Averages
12/31 - 01/06
01/07 - 01/13
01/14 - 01/20
01/21 - 01/27
01/28 - 02/03
02/04 - 02/10
02/11 - 02/17
02/18 - 02/24
02/25 - 03/03
03/04 - 03/10
03/11 - 03/17 8,077 8,077
03/18 - 03/24 7,325 6,149 6,945 6,653 6,473 8,974 11,449 7,710
03/25 - 03/31 9,164 6,074 6,618 6,794 6,938 7,918 10,104 7,659
March Averages 8,245 6,112 6,782 6,724 6,706 8,446 9,877 7,556
04/01 - 04/07 8,675 9,167 9,662 8,745 8,818 7,533 8,767
04/08 - 04/14 5,471 5,892 5,971 6,362 7,982 9,184 10,019 7,269
04/15 - 04/21 5,406 5,882 6,497 5,580 6,268 7,409 10,001 6,720
04/22 - 04/28 8,748 6,513 6,348 6,378 6,797 7,939 10,987 7,673
04/29 - 05/05 9,866 6,375 6,888 6,825 7,088 9,715 8,878 7,948
April Averages 7,373 6,667 6,974 6,961 7,376 8,613 9,484 7,635
05/06 - 05/12 5,723 6,036 6,004 5,596 6,595 9,014 11,265 7,176
05/13 - 05/19 8,598 6,433 6,814 7,676 11,897 11,696 8,852
05/20 - 05/26 9,848 7,309 7,244 6,873 7,293 10,397 13,753 8,960
05/27 - 06/02 13,888 10,263 7,594 7,909 8,740 6,429 9,137
May Averages 9,514 7,510 6,914 7,014 6,944 10,012 10,786 8,385
06/03 - 06/09 7,627 8,301 8,123 8,672 8,445 10,194 12,507 9,124
06/10 - 06/16 9,890 7,253 7,178 6,612 7,967 8,773 11,849 8,503
06/17 - 06/23 9,747 8,232 8,323 7,075 7,961 10,685 13,664 9,384
06/24 - 06/30 10,651 8,461 8,503 8,655 8,780 10,424 12,503 9,711
June Averages 9,479 8,062 8,032 7,754 8,288 10,019 12,631 9,181
07/01 - 07/07 10,103 8,149 10,315 12,884 10,095 11,027 10,996 10,510
07/08 - 07/14 7,904 7,835 8,347 8,559 8,527 9,979 10,215 8,767
07/15 - 07/21 9,443 8,281 8,843 8,732 8,747 10,183 11,738 9,424
07/22 - 07/28 9,541 8,140 8,841
07/29 - 08/04 7,756 7,165 9,573 8,165
July Averages 9,248 8,101 9,168 10,058 8,781 9,589 10,631 9,368
08/05 - 08/11 9,064 7,188 7,190 7,149 7,152 8,246 8,999 7,855
08/12 - 08/18 7,336 6,578 6,417 6,615 6,982 7,585 9,076 7,227
08/19 - 08/25 7,301 5,871 5,886 5,961 5,847 7,346 6,369
08/26 - 09/01 6,306 5,215 5,484 5,543 5,805 6,999 6,668 6,003
August Averages 7,502 6,213 6,244 6,317 6,447 7,544 8,248 6,931
09/02 - 09/08 7,235 7,969 5,670 5,663 5,905 7,244 8,427 6,873
09/09 - 09/15 6,790 5,445 5,517 5,458 5,346 6,934 7,657 6,164
09/16 - 09/22 6,056 6,056
09/23 - 09/29
September Averages 6,694 6,707 5,594 5,561 5,626 7,089 8,042 6,473
09/30 - 10/06
10/07 - 10/13 7,163 7,626 7,395
10/14 - 10/20 5,727 5,514 5,438 5,583 5,630 6,371 7,900 6,023
10/21 - 10/27 5,378 4,981 5,382 4,842 5,318 5,852 6,347 5,443
October Averages 5,553 5,248 5,410 5,213 5,474 6,462 7,291 5,807
10/28 - 11/03 4,689 4,666 4,953 5,058 5,786 5,465 5,103
11/04 - 11/10 4,503 4,758 4,933 4,509 4,631 5,378 5,706 4,917
11/11 - 11/17 4,389 4,458 4,693 4,769 4,611 5,001 4,706 4,661
11/18 - 11/24 3,896 4,779 5,275 5,957 4,298 5,719 4,788 4,959
November Averages 4,263 4,671 4,892 5,047 4,650 5,471 5,166 4,880
11/25 - 12/01 3,175 4,257 4,456 4,259 4,180 4,934 4403 4,238
12/02 - 12/08 4,161 4,734 4,695 4,530
12/09 - 12/15 3,946 4,266 4,336 4,389 4,571 5,076 3,974 4,365
12/16 - 12/22 3,250 4,130 4,162 4,267 4,578 4,176 3,911 4,068
12/23 - 12/29 3,977 4,240 2,998 4,330 5,234 6,374 5,349 4,643
December Averages 3,587 4,223 3,988 4,311 4,545 5,059 4,466 4,311
Totals:318,728 288,105 282,222 286,702 286,599 367,656 405,554
Average of Weekly Averages 7,053
Events:
2007 Eastbound Daily Vehicle Traffic, Highway 80 near Breezy Point
Date: Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Weekly Averages
12/30 - 01/05 4,774 6,322 4,040 4,200 4,286 4,605 4,133 4,623
01/06 - 01/12 3,823 4,168 4,311 4,318 4,498 4,716 3,913 4,250
01/13 - 01/19 3,277 3,922 4,045 3,851 3,930 4,925 3,640 3,941
01/20 - 01/26 3,749 3,781 4,297 4,285 4,197 4,774 4,118 4,172
01/27 - 02/02 3,752 4,235 4,438 4,199 4,245 6,374 6,389 4,805
January Averages 3,875 4,486 4,226 4,171 4,231 5,079 4,439 4,358
02/03 - 02/09 3,890 4,373 4,917 4,490 4,550 5,337 5,882 4,777
02/10 - 02/16 4,700 4,401 4,497 4,410 5,098 6,078 7,180 5,195
02/17 - 02/23 6,521 4,427 3,476 4,808
02/24 - 03/01
February Averages 5,037 4,400 4,297 4,450 4,824 5,708 6,531 5,035
03/02 - 03/08
03/09 - 03/15
03/16 - 03/22
03/23 - 03/29
03/30 - 04/05
04/06 - 04/12
04/13 - 04/19
04/20 - 04/26
04/27 - 05/03
05/04 - 05/10
05/11 - 05/17
05/18 - 05/24 6,521 8,343 7,390 7,292 8,977 13,140 8,611
05/25 - 05/31 13,998 10,989 12,494
May Averages 13,998 8,755 8,343 7,390 7,292 8,977 13,140 9,699
06/01 - 06/07 10,193 6,392 7,201 7,840 7,886 10,030 13,183 8,961
06/08 - 06/14 10,452 7,821 7,628 7,992 7,905 10,279 12,967 9,292
06/15 - 06/21 8,772 7,894 8,535 8,400
06/22 - 06/28
June Averages 9,806 7,369 7,788 7,916 7,896 10,155 13,075 9,143
06/29 - 07/05 11,329 13,976 11,726 12,344
07/06 - 07/12 7,978 7,296 7,521 7,690 7,743 8,282 10,497 8,144
07/13 - 07/19 9,843 7,104 8,474
07/20 - 07/26 9,548 7,353 7,185 7,336 7,669 9,659 11,028 8,540
07/27 - 08/02 8,171 7,022 6,921 7,158 7,426 8,928 10,701 8,047
July Averages 8,885 7,194 7,209 7,395 8,542 10,211 10,988 8,632
08/03 - 08/09 8,555 7,149 7,258 7,561 6,858 8,475 10,791 8,092
08/10 - 08/16 8,080 5,991 5,405 4,849 6,879 7,965 8,622 6,827
08/17 - 08/23 5,876 5,170 5,345 4,459 4,603 5,025 6,248 5,247
08/24 - 08/30 5,712 5,083 5,157 5,426 5,677 7,998 10,222 6,468
August Averages 7,056 5,848 5,791 5,574 6,004 7,366 8,971 6,659
08/31 - 09/06 11,566 6,377 5,349 5,310 5,205 5,055 6,421 6,469
09/07 - 09/13 5,692 4,895 7,574 8,433 6,649
09/14 - 09/20 6,168 5,087 4,912 4,555 5,234 6,640 7,162 5,680
09/21 - 09/27 4,787 4,721 4,856 5,031 4,784 7,247 5,238
September Averages 7,053 5,270 5,039 4,965 5,074 6,423 7,316 5,877
09/28 - 10/04 5,745 4,685 4,530 4,918 5,023 5,928 6,708 5,362
10/05 - 10/11 5,404 4,911 4,873 4,825 5,336 7,514 8,312 5,882
10/12 - 10/18 3,979 5,185 5,316 5,910 6,449 5,330 5,362
10/19 - 10/25 5,014 4,638 4,893 4,812 4,653 4,502 5,468 4,854
10/26 - 11/01 4,453 4,299 4,470 4,566 5,404 4,896 4,681
October Averages 5,036 4,774 4,649 4,868 5,098 5,959 6,143 5,218
11/02 - 11/08 4,009 4,043 4,212 4,100 4,651 4,613 5,573 4,457
11/09 - 11/15 4,597 4,370 4,245 4,259 4,316 4,720 4,503 4,430
11/16 - 11/22 3,703 3,928 4,112 3,887 4,139 4,509 4,220 4,071
11/23 - 11/29 3,724 4,311 4,679 5,140 4,227 4,931 4515 4,504
November Averages 4,008 4,163 4,312 4,347 4,333 4,693 4,703 4,366
11/30 - 12/06 2,715 3,895 4,016 3,822 4,075 4,365 3,992 3,840
12/07 - 12/13 3,462 3,774 3,869 3,702
12/14 - 12/20
12/21 - 12/27
December Averages 3,089 3,835 3,943 3,822 4,075 4,365 3,992 3,874
12/28 - 01/03 6,964 4,643 5,426 4,526 5,390
01/04 - 01/10 4,082 4,343 4,359
January Averages 4,082 4,343 4,359 6,964 4,643 5,426 4,526 4,906
Totals:280,071 252,781 224,961 219,760 236,202 282,968 320,983
Averge of Weekly Averages 6,161
Events:
2008 Eastbound Daily Vehicle Traffic, Highway 80 near Breezy Point
Date: Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Weekly Averages
12/28 - 01/03
01/04 - 01/10
01/11 - 01/17
01/18 - 01/24
01/25 - 01/31 4,068 4,877 5,010 4,652
January Averages 4,068 4,877 5,010 4,652
02/01 - 02/07 3,855 3,640 4,077 3,789 3,982 5,573 6,277 4,456
02/08 - 02/14 5,532 5,532
02/15 - 02/21 6,534 6,534
02/22 - 02/28 4,123 4,315 4,320 4,427 4,991 6,373 5,306 4,836
February Averages 4,503 3,978 4,199 4,108 4,487 5,973 6,039 4,755
03/01 - 03/07 3,494 4,180 4,342 4,385 4,850 6,348 9,167 5,252
03/08 - 03/14 8,254 6,124 6,335 6,690 5,907 6,464 8,016 6,827
03/15 - 03/21 6,467 6,037 5,710 6,071
03/22 - 03/28
March Averages 6,072 5,447 5,462 5,538 5,379 6,406 8,592 6,128
03/29 - 04/04
04/05 - 04/11
04/12 - 04/18 10,856 10,856
04/19 - 04/25 7,656 5,210 5,981 6,115 6,559 9,311 13,310 7,735
04/26 - 05/02 10,291 6,586 9,026 11,673 9,394
April Averages 8,974 5,898 5,981 6,115 6,559 9,169 11,946 7,806
05/03 - 05/09 8,920 6,068 6,606 7,198
05/10 - 05/16 5,709 5,932 6,842 10,213 11,125 7,964
05/17 - 05/23 6,030 5,672 5,174 8,549 9,611 7,007
05/24 - 05/30 10,199 10,247 5,294 6,584 7,516 9,200 13,375 8,916
May Averages 8,383 10,247 5,502 6,064 6,535 9,321 11,370 8,203
05/31 - 06/06 11,589 7,803 7,994 4,483 6,465 8,016 9,668 8,003
06/07 - 06/13 7,921 7,359 8,125 8,528 8,593 10,599 14,066 9,313
06/14 - 06/20 10,943 8,766 8,590 8,931 8,784 11,018 13,822 10,122
06/21 - 06/27 10,633 9,312 9,428 9,620 10,423 9,090 10,179 9,812
June Averages 10,272 8,310 8,534 7,891 8,566 9,681 11,934 9,312
06/28 - 07/04 13,610 8,920 9,280 9,873 11,149 15,978 13,875 11,812
07/05 - 07/11 10,425 10,425
07/12 - 07/18 8,566 8,921 10,334 13,045 10,217
07/19 - 07/25 11,357 7,597 8,630 9,108 10,465 13,886 10,174
07/26 - 08/01 10,657 7,536 8,260 7,537 8,487 9,534 11,139 9,021
July Averages 11,512 8,018 8,770 8,652 9,416 11,578 12,986 10,133
08/02 - 08/08 8,084 8,555 7,904 7,522 7,950 9,342 11,192 8,650
08/09 - 08/15 8,702 7,158 7,437 7,766
08/16 - 08/22
08/23 - 08/29 5,744 5,456 5,069 6,197 9,012 6,296
August Averages 8,393 7,857 7,028 6,489 6,510 7,770 10,102 7,735
08/30 - 09/05 6,978 4,586 4,890 5,009 5,772 8,921 11,200 6,765
09/06 - 09/12 13,471 7,359 5,434 5,455 7,074 8,294 7,848
09/13 - 09/19 5,834 5,319 5,657 5,516 5,205 6,472 7,899 5,986
09/20 - 09/26 6,237 5,270 5,153 5,141 5,667 7,282 7,261 6,002
09/27 - 10/03 5,439 5,247 5,004 5,126 5,391 6,522 7,401 5,733
September Averages 7,592 5,556 5,228 5,198 5,498 7,254 8,411 6,391
10/04 - 10/10 5,812 4,378 4,994 5,261 6,291 8,844 10,142 6,532
10/11 - 10/17 6,689 6,689
10/18 - 10/24
10/25 - 10/31
October Averages 6,251 4,378 4,994 5,261 6,291 8,844 10,142 6,594
11/01 - 11/07
11/08 - 11/14
11/15 - 11/21
11/22 - 11/28
11/29 - 12/05
12/06 - 12/12
12/13 - 12/19
12/20 - 12/26
12/27 - 01/02
Average of Weekly Averages 7,171
2009 Eastbound Vehicle Traffic, Highway 80 near Breezy Point
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Chatham County, Georgia
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0296
Chatham County, Georgia
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Traffic Counters
County FIPS 051
TC Number 0296
RCLink 0511002600
Beginning Milepoint 34.35
Ending Milepoint 35.33
Midpoint 34.84
2008 Truck Percentage
2008 AADT 8820
2008 Count Type Estimate
2008 Direction NonDir
2007 Truck Percentage
2007 AADT 9340
2007 Count Type Estimate
2007 Direction NonDir
2006 Truck Percentage
2006 AADT 4050 / 4030 / Sum: 8080
2006 Count Type Actual / Actual
2006 Direction East / West
2005 AADT 5460 / 5440
2005 Count Type Actual / Actual
2005 Direction East / West
2004 AADT 4572 / 4180
2004 Count Type Actual / Actual
2004 Direction East / West
2003 AADT 5795 / 5797
2003 Count Type Actual / Actual
2003 Direction East / West
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Chatham County, Georgia
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County FIPS 051
TC Number 0298
RCLink 0511002600
Beginning Milepoint 35.34
Ending Milepoint 36.86
Midpoint 36.1
2008 Truck Percentage
2008 AADT 4320
2008 Count Type Estimate
2008 Direction NonDir
2007 Truck Percentage
2007 AADT 2390 / 2190 / Sum: 4580
2007 Count Type Actual / Actual
2007 Direction East / West
2006 Truck Percentage
2006 AADT 7930
2006 Count Type Estimate
2006 Direction NonDir
2005 AADT 3950 / 3870
2005 Count Type Actual / Actual
2005 Direction East / West
2004 AADT 9019
2004 Count Type Estimate
2004 Direction NonDir
2003 AADT 4559 / 4300
2003 Count Type Actual / Actual
2003 Direction East / West
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City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 B1
Appendix B
Georgia Department of Transportation Construction Details
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 C1
Appendix C
Meeting Notes
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 C2
Meeting Minutes
Date: Tuesday, November 24 2009, 2:00 PM
Location: GDOT
Taken By: Sara Huie
Subject:
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian Study
GDOT Coordination Meeting
Attendees: Byron Rushing, GDOT State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator
Steve Cote, RS&H
Sara Huie, RS&H
The purpose of this meeting was to coordinate with GDOT regarding the City of Tybee Island Pedestrian
Study along US 80/Butler Avenue. Sara Huie opened the meeting and provided an overview of the
project and specific focus intersections.
Byron Rushing noted that GDOT is in the process of updating its guidelines regarding the safety of
marked versus unmarked crosswalks, based on Zeigler’s previous analysis on the subject. He noted that
GDOT has revised its policy, and it can be found on GDOT’s website through the office of Traffic Safety
and Design.
The following recommendations were discussed for the US 80 intersection with McKenzie Street.
Raised Crosswalks and Curb Extensions: Byron noted that these improvements are great to
increase pedestrian safety. These improvements should also include pedestrian crossing
paddles in the center of the roadway, with breakaway posts. These add vertical warning instead
of just the horizontal measures in the roadway. He noted that these are maintained by the local
jurisdictions.
Refuge Island and Curb Extensions: Byron noted that these also are great measures to increase
pedestrian safety. It was noted that FHWA recommends a minimum island width of four feet,
and GDOT prefers five feet, or six feet to accommodate bicyclists. As above, these islands
should also include pedestrian crossing signs in the center of the roadway, with breakaway
posts. These add vertical warning instead of just the horizontal measures in the roadway.
Median Extension along US 80 from Lazaretto Creek Bridge: Because this has shown to have
approval from the public in the Comprehensive Planning process, this is a viable option as well.
The main trade‐off is the loss of on‐street parking in order to install the median. However, four‐
lane, divided roadways also could tend to raise vehicle speeds.
Also discussed were several improvements that should be made at this location, regardless of which of
the above recommendations is implemented. These include:
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 C3
Street lighting: Byron noted that this is crucial to creating a safe pedestrian environment.
Rumble Strips: Byron noted that usually these are not used in this situation, typically only as a
ramp or roadway is ending. He noted that in this case if they are used, they should not interfere
with bicycle travel.
Advance Warning Signage: Byron agreed that it is crucial for pedestrian safety that motorists be
warned of pedestrian presence.
The following recommendations were discussed for the intersection of US 80/Butler Avenue at Tybrisa
Street.
Close Inlet Avenue, Create a Pocket Park, and Add All Way Stop: Byron said that closing a leg of
an intersection is always a good way to increase pedestrian safety. He noted, however, that
retaining a bicycle alley through Inlet Avenue would be desirable, perhaps along with a bicycle
“station” with added bike racks and a covering.
Add Median Refuge at Tybrisa Street Intersection: Adding a median refuge and removing a few
on‐street parking spaces will increase pedestrian visibility in the area.
Road Diet, from Four Lanes to Two: If the traffic data warrants it, this is a great way to enhance
the pedestrian experience and add bike lanes.
It was also noted that at this intersection, the ramps across the existing island do not match up correctly
with the existing crosswalk. A change to this would be recommended by RS&H.
The meeting was adjourned at 2:40.
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study
January 2010 D1
Appendix D
City of Tybee Island Conceptual Scenarios: 14th Street to Tybrisa Street