Developing a Road Diet Solution to Traffic Problems Case Study: Mollasadra Street, Shiraz, Iran

Private transport is the dominant form of transportation in most cities around the world, causing traffic congestion and making air more polluted, not mentioning the fatalities, injuries, and property damages it causes. In comparison, public transport is considered as the most favorite mode of transportation, with the active modes of cycling and walking playing complementary roles to it. In developed countries, there is an increasing focus on promoting public and active transportation in order to limit private transport, reduce vehicle speeds, and minimize traffic accidents. Thus, it is crucial to find an efficient strategy that maximizes the utility for cyclists and public transportation while limiting the space and speed for private vehicles. This can be achieved by road diet , which is a means to protect both pedestrians and drivers by reducing the number of driving lanes, thus allowing for bike lanes and wider sidewalks, while lowering the risk and severity of crashes. The study presented here develops a road diet solution by changing the geometry and lane configuration of Mollasadra Street in Shiraz along with measures to reduce the speed of traffic, especially close to conflict zones with pedestrians and cyclists. Mollasadra Street, a minor arterial corridor that provides access to/from the central business district (CBD) of the city, is among the most congested streets in Shiraz. The proposed plan will provide a sustainable solution to the traffic problems; e.g. congestion, pollution, accidents, etc., along that street and can serve as a role model for similar streets in Shiraz and other cities around the country

کلیدواژه ها:

Road Diet ، Sustainable Transportation ، Accident ، Congestion ، Biking