New Pedestrian Safety Ordinance goes into effect July 1, 2026

On July 1, 2026, the City of Columbia's ordinance 41-587, or the Pedestrian Safety Ordinance, goes into effect. This ordinance prohibits pedestrians and drivers from interacting at medians and intersections where medians are narrow, traffic volumes are high or speed limits are 35 miles per hour or higher.

Over the past few months, the Columbia Police Department, in partnership with Public Works, has shared educational information about the ordinance. That information includes what conduct is allowed and prohibited, which areas are affected, how the ordinance was developed, how to report concerns, and how CPD will approach enforcement.

We recognize that people in our community have strong views about this ordinance, and we are aware that some residents plan to stage protest activities on the effective date. This ordinance is about safety of pedestrians and motorists. Standing or remaining on medians in the middle of busy roadways creates risks for both parties. Regardless of why someone is on the median, the concern is the same: Medians are not a safe place for people to stand, gather, or remain while traffic is moving nearby at high rates of speed. The ordinance does not prohibit lawful protest, panhandling or expressive activity in safe locations.

CPD's approach will focus on safety, education and voluntary compliance. Officers may explain the ordinance and ask individuals to move from affected medians to lawful nearby locations. Citations may be issued to individuals who continue to violate the ordinance.

Drivers are also reminded to keep an attentive lookout when driving and not to stop in traffic or interact with pedestrians in medians or roadways. The goal is simple: reduce risk and keep everyone safe.

You can find more information on CPD's social media pages or on our website at www.como.gov/police/median-safety-ordinance.

City of Columbia Vision
Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

City of Columbia Mission
To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.