You may have noticed some temporary-looking markings between crosswalk lines. That’s because crosswalk markings will be replaced with zebra-stripe crosswalk markings. Approximately 3,000 marked crosswalks will be repainted. Durable material will be used instead of paint at 120 intersections.
The switch began last year, with crews remarking the crosswalks as part of street and traffic signal construction projects. By the end of the year, nearly all existing marked crosswalks on City and County streets in Minneapolis will have zebra stripes.
Zebra-striped crosswalks are easier to see than the parallel line crosswalks, according to a city news release. Making the switch will help enhance pedestrian safety and make people more comfortable using crosswalks.
The City will work with the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board to evaluate marked parkway crosswalks for future zebra style crosswalk installation, with some segments of the parkway system receiving zebra crosswalks next year. Marked crosswalks within the trunk highway system are maintained by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and are unaffected by this change.
Drivers and pedestrians should remember that under Minnesota law, drivers must stop for crossing pedestrians at all intersections – with or without marked crosswalks.