footway

A footway is a pedestrian pathway that is designated for foot traffic and is typically part of a street or public highway. It runs alongside or sometimes separates from the motor vehicle carriageway and provides a dedicated space for people walking, with the goal of improving safety and comfort relative to shared roadways.

Terminology and regional variation vary. In some regions, the term is footway, while in others it corresponds to what is commonly called a sidewalk or footpath. The exact legal status and placement can differ: in many places footways are public rights of way maintained by local authorities, while in others they may be owned or controlled by road authorities. Some systems allow shared use with cyclists or require separate cycling facilities nearby.

Design and features can include curbs that separate the footway from traffic, raised or flush surfaces, and grade-separated crossings. Footways may incorporate practical elements such as drainage, lighting, benches, bollards, tactile paving for the visually impaired, and ramps to provide accessibility at crossings and for mobility devices. The surface material and width of a footway vary with local standards, urban density, and expected pedestrian flows.

Maintenance and safety are common concerns. Footways are typically subject to enforcement against encroachments by parked vehicles, vendor stalls, or construction work. Proper maintenance, including snow and ice removal, repair of uneven surfaces, and clear sightlines at intersections, helps reduce accident risk and improve pedestrian accessibility and comfort.