UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies

The success or failure of road diets, where a multi-lane road is altered to better accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists in addition to motor vehicles, is often tied to public opinion. A survey was conducted in Davis, California, prior to capacity reallocation being implemented on a major arterial. Results show that support and opposition are correlated with perceived safety and comfort; bike usage; and expectations regarding traffic congestion on side streets. This research provides a starting point for communities planning outreach and evaluation of similar projects.