Porphyry and other natural stone products are seen throughout this report, used as specialized paving elements. Most of the concepts here revolve around traffic calming and storm water management embracing the multiple users of our streets, not just motorized vehicles.
“Living streets have no separate sidewalks or curbs and gutters, but rather provide a shared space that is safe and accessible for pedestrians, wheelchairs, cyclists and low-speed vehicles. They also allow for integrated percolation and drainage through centerline drainage, landscaping and the use of porous paving materials.” According to the report
To keep traffic speeds low enough to make it safe for pedestrians and children, traffic calming measures are designed to cover the entire street cross-section. These measures include the use of special paving materials, tree plantings, the arrangement of vehicle parking, vertical shifts such as raised intersections, road narrowings at entrance points and variations in the horizontal alignment of the street.
Traffic calming in cities has been around since Roman times as illustrated by this crosswalk where pedestrians are elevated above the street level, and chariots and wagons would need to slow down to negotiate the space between stepping stones.
The report contains seven case studies from the United States and around the world. They are documented to show the principles of design that have been used to create a living street. These real world examples highlight the existing conditions, the impetus for change and the finished product.
A separate section deals with incorporating sustainability practices in these streets by managing storm water run-off with methods like permeable paving.
To Download this 30 page educational report – Streets for Living, Planning and Best Practices in Street Design
Download the Report
Porphyry’s composition determines its high compression strength, resistance to stains, slip resistance, and high freeze/thaw ratings. The stone is the most popular paver in Europe, and is favored for its flexibility in design, beauty, durability and low maintenance requirements. ADA Compliant Porphyry pavers are also adaptable to a permeable paving set. The stone is by far one of the most durable pavers in the world. These beautiful materials are available from Milestone Imports. Milestone supports the creativity of architects, planners and designers. Porphyry offers surfaces of various finishes and mixed colorings, tending towards tones of grey, gold, violet and red, depending on where it is extracted. The products are available in North America from Milestone Imports. – www.milestoneimports.com
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