Bicyclists can share the road with cars when traffic volumes and speeds are low. Most cyclists prefer a paved shoulder five or more feet wide when motorized traffic is more than a few cars per minute, i.e., >1000 Average Daily Traffic (ADT). When the speed limit is 35 or higher, most cyclists desire a paved shoulder or bike lane. Although bicycles are considered vehicles, they, like other slower traffic, must stay as far to the right on the road as practicable. This means that shoulders should be kept free of glass and pot holes. In some areas, completely separate bike paths have high popularity, and may carry as many as 5000 daily non-motorized trips during the week, and double that at weekend.
Pedestrians almost always prefer sidewalks or paths separated from the roadway. These are safer for children, people walking pets or pushing strollers, and for those in wheelchairs. Square curbs are preferred, as they prevent motor vehicles from parking in the pedestrian area. Any separation from the travel way (e.g., parking strips, street trees) provides a more safe, secure, and pedestrian-friendly environment.

The Town of Paradise commissioned a study to address such features in enhancing the downtown area and complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The proposed Discovery Trail in the Town of Paradise will follow a looped road system within the core of old historic downtown encouraging pedestrian and bicycle access, and strengthening the attractiveness and economic vitality of this area.

To construct a mile of two lane road, from scratch, costs about $3 million per mile. In contrast, 1 mile of 10 foot wide bicycle path costs about $100,000. Oregon spends 1% of its annual transportation moneys on bicycle and pedestrian facilities. And they pay off. One bike/pedestrian bridge in Eugene linking downtown with a shopping mall had 4000 users per day in its first year of operation. In Eugene, over 8% of commuter and shopping trips are made by bike. A recent California Air Resources Board study showed that about 31% of all car trips made in Los Angeles were 1 mile or less. Other studies show that forty percent of all trips made by California drivers are under two miles. Among the 55,000 residents of the City of Davis, California, one in four commutes by bike and 41% consider their bicycle their primary mode of transportation. City officials place strong emphasis on constructing safe travel lanes and traffic signals for cyclists.

The Central Estates Subdivision in McKinleyville, California incorporated bicycle paths along its main boulevard. This path connects with established bicycle lanes linking it with area shopping and schools. The development also incorporates pedestrian paths adjoining a natural drainage course, making walking pleasant and quiet.

	Walkable Communities offers a variety of slide shows on bicycle facility design, traffic calming, improving the pedestrian environment. (904) 454-3304 or www.walkable.org.

To learn more about Bikeways & walkways, contact Seth Lancaster at: slancaster@shn-engr.com

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