PRSR 10-12-1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Feb. 8, 1983 BIKEWAYS -31_ • The inexperienced bicyclist will generally prefer — Desirable to identify utilities present. the two step approach. They will enter the intersection in the right lane and cross to the corner and then make — Available traffic volume data. another crossing to end up on the right lane of the cross street. — If intersection looks difficult, should bikeway be added to this road? Is there another alternative? Some of the conflicts noted above are partially the result of physical facility provisions for bicyclists and With the above data gathered, you now can properly laws and ordinances relating to bicycle operation. evaluate the alternative designs. F. ON-ROAD BIKEWAY TREATMENTS AT INTER- D. POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS TO INTERSECTION SECTIONS PROBLEMS The following on-road bikeways treatments are As noted before, techniques to improve safety for appropriate at intersections under varying circumstances. the bicyclist will generally inhibit the experienced cyclist No single treatment is universally recommended. Each by routing bicycle lanes through intersections in such a way intersection should be studied on an individual basis to that the less experienced cyclist will be lebst exposed to determine the appropriate design. conflict. Since the predominate use of bikeways falls into the less experienced class the two-step approach to making 1. Lane Continuation a left turn should be planned for the intersection. The "lane continuation" treatment where the on- Possible solution to the intersection problem can road bikeway is marked through the intersection may be take three forms of approach: appropriate only at intersections where the bikeway on major streets cross minor streets, particularly at '1" — Designs can be implemented which channel the intersections and only where right turns from the major bicycle into specific and more desirable locations. street to the minor street are minimal. The purpose is to provide more continuity of flow for the bicyclist. The — The second approach is to improve the motorist's solid stripe helps alert and remind vehicle (drivers) appro perception of the potential for cyclist-motorist conflict. aching on the minor, low volume, street and right turning This could best be done by advance warning through signs motorist on the major street of the existence of the bike or markings at locations where heavy cyclist conflicts lane. See Fig. A. are expected. 2. Lane to Intersection — A third approach is to separate traffic flows either by signalization or grade separation. Bike lanes carried to the intersection are the recommended treatment when right turning motor vehicle E. SITE OF INTERSECTION & FIELD EVALUATION traffic is extremely light or when traffic conditions make bicyclist weaving, to esablish normal postional relationships Before reviewing specific ways of handling a bike- with motor vehicles for through and left-turn movements, way through an intersection, one should do a field walk more potentially hazardous than cross conflict with right of it to get an idea of what type of conditions are present. turning motor vehicles. When this treatment is provided, In the review one should note some of the following: left turning bicyclists should make two-stage turns.See Fig. B. — Is there good perceptual sight distance so both motorist and bicyclist can be seen?Are there any buildings, 3. Lane Termination embankments, parked cars, or trees and bushes that are blocking the view? "Lane Termination" treatment is normally em- ployed under the same conditions as the broken stripe, — Note traffic control. If signals are present are there except that space is unavailable to maintain a bike lane to pedestrian indicators provided? the intersection. Whether "broken stripe"or "lane termina- tion" treatment is employed, arbitrary setback distances — Note if a curb is present. Are pedestrian ramps from the intersection should not be specified as standard in place and are they safe? points for initiation of treatment. Each intersection should • be individually assessed as to appropriate weaving distance — Note general cross section. If bikeway is involved, required and lane termination or broken stripe initiation it will be desirable to know if ditches are adjacent to road. should be located accordingly.See Fig. C. Is landing area for bicycles going to be a problem?