Multimodal Driveway Design

Driveways are the link between public roadways and the abutting activities that they serve. Driveways serve a wide range of activities in a variety of contexts. Driveway design guidelines have traditionally focused on accommodating motor vehicles, but in recent years, growing emphasis has been placed on a broader range of issues, such as better managing access and accommodating all modes, including pedestrians and bicyclists. How well driveways are designed affects the safety and mobility of not only motorists but also bicyclists and pedestrians. This paper draws from research performed for NCHRP Project 15–35, Geometric Design of Driveways. It discusses multimodal driveway design considerations and provides design guidelines that recognize the needs of pedestrians (including those with disabilities and transit users) and bicyclists.