As communities, we’ve become more aware of the impact our cars make on the environment. We’ve also become aware of our need for more exercise. Our lifestyles of sitting at desks are taking a toll. For these reasons, many people now choose to ride their bikes in place of driving, when possible, for exercise, to commute, and just for fun. In this article, we’ll look at how to make your city safe for cyclists so drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians feel confident as they move about the city.
Bicycle Lanes
Bicycle lanes on the road are for cycling only. Pedestrians walking and cars driving are not allowed in the bike lanes. The lanes are truly helpful for everyone. Those driving cars feel comfortable knowing cyclists are in their own lane, pedestrians don’t worry about bikes on the sidewalk, and most of all, bicyclists are safe from moving cars and working around those on foot.
Signs
When designing bike lanes, consider all traffic. Stoplights and stop signs, crosswalks, and light to heavy traffic all affect the bike lanes. The lanes need direction just as the rest of the road does. Many bike lanes have their own traffic signals and signs along the way to help guide and direct cyclists and keep everyone safe.
Keep Lanes Clear
Cyclists’ safety on the road can be affected not only by traffic but also by things like trench drain grates for water removal on the road, which is a danger to a bike’s wheels if the grates are too wide. When designing roadways and bike paths, consider these things and choose according to who and what crosses them regularly.
Make sure to place public waste receptacles in areas that aren’t in the bike lanes or other areas where cyclists often ride. Encourage the entire community to protect cyclists by keeping an eye on the bike lanes and common riding areas and removing any dangers they see.
Transportation Network
Every city has a transportation network designed to help members of the community easily switch from one form of transportation to another. Examples include parking located near the train station or a walking path that leads to the bus station.
A bike-friendly city connects cyclists to these areas as well. Bike paths should serve a purpose in the way the path leads to somewhere helpful. Design bike lanes that pass by transportation facilities in case a cyclist is riding in order to get to another form of transportation.
Parking
When creating parking places, remember, bikes need parking as well. Safe and reliable parking for bikes all over the city encourages members of the community to ride their bikes, which in turn creates an eco-friendly city and health-conscious community members.
Biking is a great hobby and an eco-friendly way to move about the city. As communities, we can all pitch in to keep our cyclists safe. As city designers, consider how to make your city safe for cyclists, and your community will become known as a safe and friendly place to live.
