Permeable Paver Crosswalks
Raymore, Missouri
How does this project advance the three pillars of sustainability — social equity, economic vitality and environmental stewardship?
The permeable paver crosswalk project advances the three pillars of sustainability in our community by:
- Increasing the visibility and safety for all pedestrians, giving them equal access and safe crossing along the entire main thoroughfare through the city.
- Increasing access to different areas of our community, helping sustain a livable, accessible and viable community.
- Managing stormwater by reducing runoff, resulting in cleaner waterways in our community.
Project Goals:
Our goals are to create a truly walk-friendly community by promoting connectivity with safe, clearly defined crossing areas year-round that also promote water quality. The permeable paver crosswalk design aids in stormwater management by allowing water to absorb into the ground below the crosswalk in a more natural manner, thus reducing stormwater runoff and inhibiting the buildup of ice in winter.
Project Description:
Permeable paver crosswalks have been installed at 10 streets intersecting U.S. Highway 58 — the main traffic corridor through Raymore — with more planned for the future. The pavers provide a visually distinct marker for both pedestrians to cross and vehicles to stop. The permeable pavers also provide treatment for stormwater and reduce the potential for ice buildup at the intersection by allowing the melted ice to quickly drain into the ground during the winter.
Community Benefits and Lessons Learned:
The permeable paver crosswalk project started with one installation in winter of 2016. This first test allowed our engineers to observe how the pavers settled and held up against wear and tear. When planning the continuance of the project, we chose to improve upon the original design by adding two layers of geogrid for extra support and better drainage and chose pavers that are more UV- and stain-resistant for a more attractive look. The first intersection with the permeable paver crosswalk never iced over during the winter months, proving it was beneficial to both pedestrian and driver safety.
Funding Sources and Partnerships:
This project, approved unanimously by Raymore City Council, was funded through the city’s transportation sales tax and stormwater sales tax.