Re: Crosswalk flags

#776826

luckymom30
Participant

Since 2008 the city no longer provide crosswalk flags:

Because of the limited effectiveness of the flags and the ongoing maintenance associated with them, SDOT will no longer provide replacement pedestrian crossing flags at the pilot locations, and will not install any new locations. SDOT will allow community sponsors to maintain existing locations, which means the community sponsor will provide replacement flags and flag holders as needed. SDOT will also allow new locations to be installed under the guidelines below.

SDOT’s current policy allows residents and neighborhood organizations to provide crossing flags where the following guidelines are met:

Flags may only be placed at legal crosswalks—the crosswalk does not need to be a marked crosswalk, as legal crosswalks exist at every intersection unless otherwise signed

Flag holders must be attached to poles / posts using zip-ties or other temporary mounting materials. Holders that obstruct existing signs or cause damage to objects in the SDOT right-of-way are not allowed and will be removed

Flag holders should be located within five feet of the crosswalk

Flags should be a minimum of 10 inches by 10 inches in size, and made with orange or fluorescent yellow-green material

Please be aware that SDOT may remove flag holders at any time.

Flags can be purchased from a variety of suppliers. Try an internet search for “high visibility flags” to find some potential vendors.

Financial assistance may be available through the Department of Neighborhoods’ Neighborhood Matching Fund or through SDOT’s Safe Routes to School mini-grants.

Remember that using a crossing flag does not guarantee that you will be seen. Make sure to keep these other tips in mind:

Always attempt to make eye contact with approaching drivers

Wear bright clothing when walking at night

Don’t be distracted—turn off headphones and pay attention when crossing the street.

For more information, contact walkandbike@seattle.gov or call (206) 684-7583.