Source: Verkeer & Openbare Ruimte, gemeente Amsterdam.
Monitoring Shared Spaces Amsterdam CS
On November 21, 2015, the Shared Space on the pontplein on the IJ side of Amsterdam Central Station was opened. There are no cars on this slow traffic square, but other traffic arrives from many different directions: from the bicycle and pedestrian tunnel under CS, the De Ruijterkade and from the ferry landings. Due to the high traffic intensities, the feeling of having priority over two conflicting bicycle routes and the high number of crossing pedestrians, the concept of 'shared space' has been chosen as the optimal solution for the safe handling of the intersecting traffic flows.
Because this is a new traffic concept for Amsterdam in a busy environment at a complex intersection, it was decided to monitor the operation of the Shared Space during the first three months after opening.
In the study, traffic conflicts were observed and the seriousness, cause, location and mode of transport of the conflict partners were registered for each conflict. In addition, traffic flows have been made transparent by means of counts and the precise routes through the area, the so-called 'desire lines', have been made transparent with tracking sensors. The research provides data on traffic conflicts, traffic flows and desire lines. Normative statements about road safety in the Shared Space are not part of this study.
Image credits
Header image: Marlise Steenman | fotobank.amsterdam | Shared Space CS
Icon image: Marlise Steenman | fotobank.amsterdam | Shared Space CS