BIKE: Bike Lanes versus Wide Curb Lanes - some of the Bike Lane side

[Jeb Boyt]

----Original Message Follows----
From: Mike Dahmus <mdahmus>
Date: Fri, 01 Apr 2005 15:40:47 -0600

My general feeling on when bike lanes are appropriate:

1. Where there are lots of inexperienced bicyclists
2. Where speed differential is fairly high
3. Where volume of bicyclists is very high

My general feeling on when wide curb lanes are appropriate:

1. Where speed differential is lower
2. Where bicycle volume (all types) is moderate to low
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Mike,

First, thanks for the detailed analysis.

However, I am surprised that roadway width is not included in any of your 
criteria.  My understanding is that under the current AASHTO guidelines, 
wide curb lanes are favored where there is insufficient space for bike 
lanes.  Now, while the space configurations are dependent on AASHTO's 
assumptions of highway speeds, it is my understanding that the analytical 
method used by traffic engineers is first to see if there is space for a 
bike lane.  If there is not space for a bike lane, then whether a wide curb 
lane can safely be designated as a bike route.  If a wide curb lane is not 
available or cannot be safely designated, then an alternative route should 
be provided.

Jeb