Nonmotorized Level of Service Rating Factors

LOS, or Level of Service ratings are a graded system typically applied to vehicular traffic on our streets. LOS grades A-F evaluate the ease and efficiency of traffic traveling on a given street, not necessarily it's Level of Service for all modes. The Victoria Transport Policy Institute has conducted a lot of research on non-motorized transportation planning and developed a Nonmotorized Level of Service Rating. Here is my summary of criteria for grading nonmotorized LOS, grades are based on:

• Network continuity: sidewalks
  
• Network quality: are sidewalks properly designed and maintained?
  
• Road crossing: safety and speed of road crossings
• Traffic Protection: Separation (distance and physical separations) from motorized traffic
• Congestion and user conflicts: hazards, such as street furniture, crowding
• Topography: steep inclines
• Sense of security: visibility and lighting
• Wayfinding: signage, maps,
• Weather protection: shade trees and awnings
• Cleanliness: litter, graffiti, maintenance
• Attractiveness: Quality of nearby buildings and landscaping, open space, parks, plazas, recreational area