Rationale
As previously stated, traffic flow is directly correlated with accident rates. To prevent accidents and increase safety, Bethel University has instituted a number of traffic regulations. The following policy seeks to outline pedestrian safety as it relates to roadways, speed limits, intersections, right of way, and roadway fire codes.
Pedestrian Safety
Bethel University is a pedestrian safe-zone. Drivers need to be aware of pedestrians, giving them the right-of-way at all times.
Speed Limit
The speed limit for Bethel University is 20 miles per hour. It is posted on traffic signs throughout campus.
Unsignalized Intersection Theory
Due to size of the St. Paul campus, intersections are unsignaled. What this means is that each intersection along Bethel Drive is regulated by Stop signs as opposed to traffic lights. We require drivers to observe the same state and national laws for all stop signs and intersections.
Road design
Bethel drive has an average width of 13’. This is large enough to allow for two-way traffic.
Roadway Fire Code & Fire Lanes
Due to the width of Bethel Drive, parking is technically not allowed on either side of the road to ensure space for possible emergency vehicle usage. However, Bethel University has special permission from the presiding Fire Marshal of our location to allow parking on only one side of the road and only in certain areas. Areas that are too narrow to allow any parking on the side of the road will be adequately posted with signs to ensure community understanding and following of this regulation.
Moving Violations
If at anytime a vehicle is being operated in a reckless and dangerous way, Safety & Security reserves the right to pull that vehicle over through the use of our emergency lights and sirens. Drivers not yielding to the use of emergency lights may be penalized with a fine and/or possible barring from campus.