A crosswalk is defined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) as "the portion of a roadway designated for pedestrians to use to cross the street. 

A marked crosswalk is any portion of the road outlined with white paint, or created by reflective pavement markings or a different texture of concrete like brick pavers.  These markings identify the portion of the road that is designated for pedestrian travel.

What is a driver's legal obligation to pedestrians in crosswalks in Washington State?
The law in Washington State places a legal obligation on drivers to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.  Some states require a driver only to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.  In Washington State, drivers must come to a complete stop.

Washington State's crosswalk law (RCW 46.61.235) says: 

• Drivers must stop if a pedestrian is in their half of the roadway.
• Drivers must stop if a pedestrian is within one lane of their half of the roadway.
• Once the pedestrian is beyond one lane of their half of the roadway, drivers may go.

It is important to note that ALL INTERSECTIONS ARE LEGAL CROSSINGS FOR PEDESTRIANS whether they are marked with crosswalk markings, or not.

Why use a crosswalk?
A crosswalk is the preferred, and safest, crossing location for pedestrians, particularly if the crosswalk is enhanced by a traffic signal.  But using a crosswalk does not relieve pedestrians from using due care for their own safety.

What is a mid-block crosswalk?
A mid-block crosswalk is a crossing marked at an uncontrolled location (without a traffic signal or a stop sign).  A mid-block crossing may be installed when there is a high volume of pedestrian traffic, or if the distance between intersections is substantial.  Mid-block crosswalks are designed to discourage pedestrians from making random crossings by confining them to a preferred location where they can be seen by motorists and where they can cross most safely with the flow of vehicular traffic.

How can I request a marked crosswalk?
The decision to install or not install a marked crosswalk is taken very seriously.  Crosswalks are not marked unless anticipated benefits clearly outweigh the risks.  When a request comes into the City for a marked crosswalk, the location will be reviewed when one or more of the following conditions are present:

• The location has not been reviewed within the last three years.
• Staff suspects that a reasonable person would have difficulty determining an appropriate crossing location.
• A reasonable person would not expect to encounter pedestrians at the location.

In general, the City of Redmond marks crosswalks under limited conditions, considering such factors as pedestrian volume, traffic volume, traffic speed, and roadway configuration.  If you would like the City to consider a marked crosswalk at a specific location, you can submit your request via email to pwtrans@redmond.gov.