Curb extensions may be applied at midblock to slow traffic speeds and add public space. When utilized as a traffic calming treatment, midblock curb extensions are referred to as “pinchpoints” or “chokers”.
Recommended
1Plant street trees on curb extensions aligned to the parking lane to narrow the overall profile of the roadway. Before installing street trees on the curb extension, assess surrounding utilities to ensure that the trees’ roots will not damage under ground infrastructure.
Optional
Pinchpoints can facilitate midblock pedestrian crossings of low-volume streets. These crossings do not need to be marked, unless volumes exceed 2,000–3,000 vehicles per day or midblock destinations warrant an enhanced treatment.
2Bicycle racks can be combined with curb extensions, especially in areas where bicycle parking is insufficient or demand for long-term or short-term parking is unmet.
6 1/2 Avenue in New York City connects a series of privately-owned public spaces that cut midblock through Midtown.
The visibility of crossing pedestrians was improved here using pinchpoints constructed with interim materials.