Assessment of Pedestrian Bridges Impact on Traffic Flow and Pedestrian Safety in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

Pedestrian bridges play a vital role in improving urban traffic flow efficiency and enhancing pedestrian safety by separating pedestrian movement from vehicular traffic at busy road corridors. This study assessed the impact of pedestrian bridges on traffic flow efficiency and pedestrian safety across four corridors in Maiduguri: GSM Market, Ramat Polytechnic Junction, Gamboru Market and the University of Maiduguri Gate. The study is important because increasing urbanization, high pedestrian activity and rising traffic volumes in Maiduguri have created frequent pedestrian–vehicle conflicts, delays and safety risks that require effective infrastructure solutions. Using an observational approach, data on pedestrian counts, traffic volumes, operating speeds, conflicts and survey responses were collected during peak periods and analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA and Pearson correlation. A total of 1,950 pedestrians were observed across the four locations, with bridge compliance averaging 55%, highest at the University of Maiduguri Gate (62%) and lowest at GSM Market (30%). Average uninterrupted vehicle volumes ranged from 1,050 to 1,250 veh/hr but declined to 910–1,000 veh/hr during pedestrian crossings, representing an average reduction of 16.3%. Similarly, average operating speeds dropped from 38–45 km/h under free-flow conditions to 18–25 km/h during at-grade pedestrian crossings, indicating an average speed reduction of 46.2%. Low compliance, especially in commercial areas, contributed to increased jaywalking and pedestrian–vehicle conflicts. GSM Market recorded the highest conflict rate (11.33 conflicts/hr), while the University of Maiduguri Gate had lower conflicts (8.00 conflicts/hr) and better overall performance. The findings indicated that bridge effectiveness depended on user behavior, surrounding land use, accessibility and enforcement. The study recommended better integration of pedestrian facilities, installation of barriers and fencing, stronger enforcement and sustained public awareness campaigns to improve safety and traffic flow.