Measuring a sidewalk primarily involves determining its width, specifically the surfaced, paved area. According to standard definitions, total sidewalk width is the surfaced (paved) area measured from back of curb to right-of-way line.
Understanding Sidewalk Measurement
When discussing how to measure a sidewalk, the focus is typically on its width, which indicates how much space is available for pedestrians. This measurement defines the physical area intended for walking, distinct from the adjacent road or private property.
Key Measurement Points
To accurately measure sidewalk width, you need to identify specific points based on established definitions:
- Surfaced (Paved) Area: This is the actual walk surface itself – the concrete, asphalt, or other material you walk on. The measurement is taken across this area.
- Back of Curb: This is the edge of the curb that is closest to the sidewalk. It marks the transition point between the sidewalk and the curb/gutter or roadway. This is not the curb line (face of the curb).
- Right-of-Way Line: This line represents the boundary between the publicly owned land (where the sidewalk is located) and the adjacent privately owned property. It acts as the outer limit for the sidewalk measurement.
Here's a breakdown of the measurement components:
| Feature | Description | Measurement Point |
|---|---|---|
| Surfaced (Paved) Area | The finished walking surface. | Measured across |
| Back of Curb | The edge of the curb nearest the sidewalk. | Starting Point |
| Right-of-Way Line | The boundary line between public right-of-way and private property. | Ending Point |
How to Measure in Practice
Based on the definition, measuring a sidewalk's width is a straightforward process:
- Locate the back of the curb: Find the edge of the curb closest to the paved sidewalk surface. Remember the curb line is the face of the curb, so you are measuring from the back edge.
- Identify the right-of-way line: This line defines the extent of the public land where the sidewalk sits, bordering the private property. This might be marked by property pins, survey markers, or align with fences/buildings depending on local standards.
- Measure the distance: Using a tape measure or measuring wheel, stretch it across the paved sidewalk surface from the back of the curb to the right-of-way line, perpendicular to the direction of the sidewalk.
This measurement gives you the total width of the surfaced sidewalk area.
