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Hans Monderman
Hans Monderman (1947-2008) was a traffic engineer in the Netherlands best known for innovating and applying the concept of
shared space
. Shared space involves the elimination of road signs and markings in lower speed settings, requiring vehicle drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to communicate with each other via eye contact to negotiate right-of-way. This induces all users of the street to behave in a safe manner and treat each other as people rather than as a "driver" or "pedestrian".
Originally trained as a civil engineer and having worked as a driving instructor, Monderman had a deep understanding of how streets are used and how drivers think about the driving task. This background gave him a unique perspective on street design, as he became head of road safety in the Province of Friesland. His innovations led to a variety of unique street improvements in the Netherlands, like the implementation of his shared space concept in
Drachten
, but has also led to international activism to promote more democratic use of the roadway space.
Monderman's influence has been felt thoughout the world, as cities around the globe experiment with his concepts.
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ALSO ON THE LIVABLE STREETS NETWORK
- Hans Monderman: In Memoriam — Streetsblog
- Hans Monderman, Engineer of Livable Streets, 1947-2008 — Streetsblog
REFERENCES
Each source is referred to by the same number every time it is cited. Please keep citation style consistent.
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
PICTURE REFERENCES
Pictures are cited in the order they appear above. Please keep citation style consistent.
[1] Hans Monderman, Engineer of Livable Streets, 1947-2008 — Streetsblog
[2] Shared space intersection in Drachten, Netherlands. Photo by sociate via Flickr.
FURTHER READING
KEYWORDS
shared space, naked street, street legends, signage, signs, eye contact, pedestrian safety, roadway safety
