Why are some crosswalks marked and others unmarked?

The Kent City Council adopted a policy that determines where crosswalk markings will be installed and maintained. The policy is based on state law, research studies, and public input. 

• Crosswalks are marked at traffic signals, except where not appropriate for traffic flow.

• Crosswalks are marked at stop signs where needed to direct pedestrians for traffic flow or safety reasons.

• At locations without a traffic signal, stop sign, or yield sign, city staff considers the number of vehicles, speed limit, number of lanes, and pedestrian volume to determine whether a crosswalk will be marked.

• Within the Downtown Area, crosswalks are marked at intersections to encourage pedestrian activity.

• On school walk routes, crosswalks are marked to guide students.

• Crosswalks are marked at designated school crossings. 

Yes. According to state law, drivers must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk regardless of whether it is marked or unmarked.

State law defines a crosswalk as “the portion of the roadway between the intersection area and a prolongation or connection of the farthest sidewalk line or in the event there are no sidewalks then between the intersection area and a line ten feet therefrom, except as modified by a marked crosswalk.”  

Residents can make a request; a transportation engineer will contact you and evaluate the location. At some locations, supplemental safety features (flashing lights, extra signs, etc.) may be necessary before a crosswalk can be installed. These locations will be prioritized by city staff. As funding becomes available, high-priority locations will be addressed first.