Bicycle Route Constraints
It's our intent to define certain stipulations on how each type
of route is planned and constructed by public agencies.
We'll ask planners to codify these stipulations in their master plans.
(We would add the caveat, however, that most cyclists would still rather have
something than nothing, so these stipulations are flexible and shouldn't be used as
an excuse to build nothing!).
Some of the facility-specific stipulations are:
- Shared roadways - Sign as a bicycle route and
require bikeability within the master plan. This means retaining shoulders or
other accomodations even if the road is widened.
Maintain continuity of shoulders or road width, avoid pinch points,
maintain surface conditions, configure intersections to be bike-friendly,
minimize conflicts with parked cars.
- Separated Paths
and Side Paths – If at all possible, maintain adequate width (8‘- 10’)
for any linear facility (= facility with transportation potential).
Must have a hard surface (i.e. a paved surface, with the exception of the C&O Canal Towpath).
- Bike lanes – Follow AASHTO guidelines, minimize conflicts with parked cars.
- For all facility types,
maintain network integrity by maintaining bikeable connections between
one route and the next, especially at intersections.
- For all facility types that are proposed to be part of our bike network,
put in bike route signs. Consider creating numbered bike routes for
especially important corridors.
- Generally do not force novice users into dangerous situations.
Shared use paths should not end abruptly and force users onto a shared use roadway suitable
for more advanced riders.
Suggestions for additional constraints are welcome!
Bike facility types are further described on the map key page.
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