Elements of Complete Streets 23 automobiles, and seek direct routes. When Context Based Classification anticipates a higher level of pedestrian usage, it is important that these networks be permeable and offer multiple options to keep trips direct. Furnishing Zone The furnishing zone is the area between the curb and the pedestrian zone. This zone contains street trees and landscaping, benches and transit shelters, lighting and signal poles, utility boxes, parking meters, and trash cans. Locating these items in the furnishing zone prevents obstructions within the pedestrian zone. These items also establish a comfort and safety buffer between moving traffic and pedestrians on the sidewalk and can also provide space for people accessing parked cars. This zone should be maximized to provide as great a buffer as possible between traffic and pedestrians. This can also be accomplished with the flex zone with bike lanes or street parking where there is not enough room for a large enough furnishing zone. Where on- street parking is provided, curb extensions or other elements can be used to calm traffic and provide extra space for furniture and greenscaping. The furnishing zone and flex zone can, at times, be combined. Flex zones may be expanded to include “flush” cycle tracks and traffic calming features such as parklets and midblock crosswalks. The flex zone should remain clear of obstacles to allow for access to parked vehicles. FURNISHING ZONE AMENITIES Street furniture adds life and comfort to the pedestrian realm of a street. Benches create opportunities to sit and rest, socialize, and watch the world. Bike racks allow for easy access between bike lanes and store fronts and apartments. Bollards and planters can create a barrier between the sidewalk and traveled way, increasing safety from dangerous vehicles, and frame the space. Trash and recycling containers help keep the street clean and facilitate collection by the appropriate group. Benches Seating can be provided through the provision of traditional benches or through extensions of landscaping planters. Seats should be oriented toward views of natural vistas or people walking by and with the backs of seating options toward a fixed object (such as a tree trunk or building) to provide a sense of security. The pedestrian zone should be respected as a clear space, with seating placed either in the frontage zone or in the furnishing zone. Clear zones should be provided around benches and be ADA compliant to allow for maintenance of both seats and other street items.
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