Godavarthy, Ranjit

This study explores the nature and extent of problems related to pedestrian user experience at Minnesota roundabouts. Pedestrian user experience in this study is measured by way of studying driver-yielding rates toward pedestrians at Minnesota roundabout crossings, pedestrian infrastructure design, and pedestrian behavior characteristics at Minnesota roundabout crossing treatments. To gather roundabout candidates for this study, a survey was conducted with Minnesota city and county engineers, as well as with the project Technical Advisory Panel members. Fifteen roundabouts were shortlisted for conducting field observations followed by installing multiple cameras at each roundabout. Eight roundabout locations were shortlisted for conducting case studies and in-depth analysis to study pedestrian user experience. Case study findings have shown that when compared to multi-lane roundabouts, single-lane roundabouts performed well in terms of driver vehicle-yielding rates toward pedestrians. Use of rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) at pedestrian crossings has shown better driver-yielding rates while in-roadway signs have shown satisfactory results. Based on the knowledge gathered from previous research by way of literature review combined with Minnesota roundabouts studied in this research effort, a guidance document was developed to help city and county engineers enhance pedestrian user experience at Minnesota roundabouts.

The objective of this research was to measure the benefits of rural and small urban transit services in Minnesota. The study accomplished this by first identifying; describing; and classifying the potential benefits of transit. Second; a method was developed for measuring these benefits. Where possible; benefits were quantified in dollar values. Other benefits that could not be monetized were either quantified in another way or described qualitatively. The study included an analysis of societal benefits and economic impacts within local communities. Third; the developed method was applied to a series of six case studies across Greater Minnesota. Data were collected through onboard rider surveys for each of the six transit agencies. Total benefits and benefit-cost ratios were estimated for the six transit agencies--all showed benefits that exceeded costs--and results were generalized to Greater Minnesota. Finally; a spreadsheet tool was developed that can be used by any transit agency to calculate the benefits of its services. This research provides information to assess the benefits of public spending on transit; which gives decision makers the data needed to inform investment decisions.