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Share the Road, Flagstaff: How Drivers, Cyclists, and Pedestrians Can Coexist

Updated: 7 days ago


A yellow diamond-shaped “Share the Road” sign featuring icons of a car, pedestrian, cyclist, and horseback rider, symbolizing the need for all road users to coexist safely. The sign is set against a backdrop of trees and buildings, reinforcing shared use in diverse communities like Greater Flagstaff.

With summer in full swing, Flagstaff's streets are bustling with activity. Whether you're driving to work, biking along the trails, or walking to your favorite café, our roads are shared spaces. Mutual respect and awareness are essential to ensure everyone's safety.


Here's how to practice safe travel etiquette no matter how you get around—and how the City is helping redesign our streets to support all modes of travel.




What Sharing the Road Looks Like in Flagstaff


Flagstaff embraces the Complete Streets approach—an inclusive method of transportation planning and design that prioritizes safe, accessible travel for people of all ages and abilities, regardless of whether they are walking, biking, driving, or using public transit—designing roadways that safely accommodate all users—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.


This philosophy ensures that our infrastructure supports diverse modes of transportation.

Interactions on Shared Roads


When multiple modes of transportation share the same space, everyone has a role to play in making those spaces work safely and efficiently. Understanding the basic etiquette and expectations helps reduce conflict and keeps everyone moving confidently.


  • Drivers and Cyclists: Drivers should stay alert for cyclists, not just in bike lanes, but also in traffic lanes. Remember, cyclists are legally allowed to take the lane when turning left, passing obstacles like trash bins or parked cars, or traveling on roads without a designated bike lane. In return, cyclists should follow traffic laws, ride predictably, and always signal their intentions.

  • Pedestrians and Drivers: Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. Drivers must yield and remain alert, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.


Why It Matters: While pedestrian and bicycle crashes are a smaller share of total traffic incidents, they account for a disproportionately high number of serious injuries.  


Want to understand why speed matters so much? Visit this resource from the Institute of Transportation Engineers to see how even small changes in vehicle speed can dramatically affect injury risk.


How the City of Flagstaff Is Supporting Safer Coexistence

Illustration of a pedestrian using a marked crosswalk with in-street yield signs and nearby vehicles. Insets show close-ups of a pedestrian crossing warning sign and a "State Law: Yield to Pedestrians Within Crosswalk" sign, highlighting infrastructure used in Flagstaff to support safer coexistence between drivers and pedestrians.

To support safer coexistence, Flagstaff is investing in infrastructure that prioritizes the needs of pedestrians and cyclists while creating more predictable traffic patterns for drivers.


  • Protected Intersections: Designed to reduce conflict points between vehicles and non-motorized users.

  • Two-Stage Left-Turn Boxes: Allow cyclists to make safer left turns at busy intersections.

  • Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (HAWKs): Provide safe crossing points for pedestrians.


Butler Avenue Complete Streets Conversion


A significant project funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation aims to transform Butler Avenue into a model Complete Street, featuring:


  • Grade-separated bike lanes

  • Enhanced pedestrian crossings

  • Traffic calming measures


Safety Tips for Every Type of Traveler

A cyclist riding a red bicycle in mixed traffic near a silver car, carrying groceries in a rear basket. The image emphasizes the importance of safety and awareness for all travelers, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Different types of travelers face different challenges. Whether you're on foot, on a bike, or behind the wheel, these tips can help everyone get where they’re going safely.


For Drivers:


Drivers play a critical role in road safety. These simple habits can help prevent collisions and make Flagstaff's streets more predictable for everyone:


  • Give Space: Maintain a safe distance from cyclists and pedestrians.

  • Check Blind Spots: Always look for cyclists before turning or changing lanes.

  • Yield Before Turning: Ensure intersections are clear of pedestrians and cyclists.


For Cyclists:


Cyclists are some of the most vulnerable users on the road. These tips help keep you visible and predictable while navigating traffic:


  • Stay Visible: Use lights and wear reflective gear, especially at night.

  • Follow Traffic Laws: Obey all signals and signs.

  • Use Hand Signals: Clearly indicate your intentions to other road users.

  • Be Predictable: Ride in a straight line, avoid sudden movements, and communicate clearly to help road users anticipate your actions.


For Pedestrians:


Pedestrians often have the least physical protection, which makes awareness and predictability essential. Follow these steps to stay safe while walking:


  • Cross at Marked Areas: Use designated crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.

  • Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and avoid using phones while crossing.

  • Stay Alert: Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of vehicles.


Did You Know? The Federal Highway Administration reports that High-Intensity Activated Crosswalks (HAWK signals) can reduce pedestrian crashes by up to 69%. 


Join the Movement for a Safer, Greater Flagstaff


Every individual's actions contribute to the safety of our roads. By practicing awareness and respect, we can create a community where all modes of transportation coexist harmoniously.


MetroPlan is dedicated to enhancing transportation safety through education, advocacy, and infrastructure improvements. Together, we can build a Greater Flagstaff that's safe, connected, and accessible for everyone..

 







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