Pedestrian, Cycling, and Multi-use Bridge Design Guideline

Leading up to the preparation of this proposal, the Structures Standing 
Committee of the Transportation Association of Canada and CSA Group 
facilitated a discussion with key stakeholders and subject matter experts on the 
proposed new guideline. While the final scope will be approved by the 
Technical Committee, the initial consultation concluded that the guideline 
should consider: 

• minimum requirements for the design of new pedestrian bridges, including: § Volume of frequently occurring pedestrian traffic based on usage, route, 
location and demand; 

§ Loads expected during its design life; 
§ Non-frequent heavy traffic that may occur due to nearby events; 
§ Performance criteria; 
§ Simplified design rules and guidance on their applicability; 
§ Vibration design of lightweight pedestrian bridges; 
§ Geometric considerations and cross section; 
§ Accessibility requirements (i.e. slope of ramps); 
§ Hydrotechnical analysis; and 
§ Commentary with examples. 

• Warrant criteria: 
§ Stopping sight distance; 
§ Time required for pedestrians to cross the street; 
§ Vehicle speeds; 
§ Distance from adjacent pedestrian crossings; and 
§ Distance from adjacent intersections and vertical clearances. 

• Guidance on planning, maintenance and sustainability of pedestrian bridges; 
and  
• Best practices for the retrofit and rehabilitation of existing pedestrian bridges. 

Other considerations may include: life cycle assessment (LCA) provisions, pre-
engineered/manufactured bridges, underpasses, pavement markings, signage, 
railings and/or barriers (anti-suicide), expansion joint design, signals (which 
moderate motorist/pedestrian/cyclist interaction), lighting and level of comfort 
for vulnerable users.