Neighborhood Bikeway Concept Plan

Transcription

1 Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan July 2014

2 Prepared by Washingtn Cunty. TGM 1G 12 Task 3.7 Deliverable R This prject is partially funded by a grant frm the Transprtatin and Grwth Management (TGM) Prgram, a jint prgram f the Oregn Department f Transprtatin and the Oregn Department f Land Cnservatin and Develpment. This TGM grant is financed, in part, by federal Mving Ahead fr Prgress in the 21 st Century (MAP 21), lcal gvernment, and State f Oregn funds. The cntents f this dcument d nt necessarily reflect views r plicies f the State f Oregn. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 1

3 Cntents Intrductin... 4 Backgrund... 4 Neighbrhd Bikeway Characteristics... 4 Gals and Plan Prcess... 5 Existing Cnditins... 8 Ruting Apprach Step 1: Identify and Rank Destinatins Step 2: Map Existing Netwrk Step 3: Identify Ptential Neighbrhd Bikeways Step 4: Evaluate and Refine Neighbrhd Bikeways Neighbrhd Bikeway Tls and Treatments Signs and Pavement Markings Traffic Speed Management Traffic Vlume Management Intersectin Treatments Implementatin and Funding Prject Develpment Prcess Public Invlvement and Outreach Outreach Thus Far Plan Develpment Educatin Prject Develpment Outreach Marketing List f Appendices A. Neighbrhd Bikeway Maps B. Gaps and Barriers Assessment C. Ruting Methdlgy D. Recmmended Actins E. Prject Develpment Prcess F. Neighbrhd Bikeway Treatments Tlkit Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 2

4 Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 3

5 Intrductin Neighbrhd bikeways, als knwn as bicycle bulevards, are lw stress, active transprtatin crridrs develped t imprve bicycle safety and circulatin. These crridrs take advantage f the existing lw speed and lw vlume lcal street netwrk t create an envirnment that is cmfrtable fr bicyclists f all ages and skill levels. Neighbrhd bikeways cnnect users t neighbrhd destinatins and prvide bicyclists alternatives t, r bridge gaps in, the existing bike lanes netwrk. Neighbrhd bikeways have been shwn t appeal t the widest range f bicycle users and will help the Cunty mve clser t achieving three key bicycling gals: 1. Shift biking and walking frm being recreatinal nly t a viable transprtatin ptin t get t mst destinatins. 2. Mve beynd designing bicycle facilities fr the spandex crwd t making bicycling attractive and cnvenient fr all ages and abilities. 3. Encurage biking and walking as a means f creating vibrant and healthy cmmunities, regardless f age, gender, ability, ethnicity, r ecnmic backgrund. Pht: Greg Raisman Backgrund Reginal perfrmance targets aim at tripling the mde share f bicycling and walking ver the next 25 years. As f 2011, there were apprximately 200 miles f urban cllectr and arterial radways in Washingtn Cunty (Cunty), and many lack cmplete bicycle and pedestrian facilities. In this time f cnstrained resurces, we need t ensure that we are utilizing ur existing system t meet ur cmmunity needs. Existing lcal and neighbrhd streets present an pprtunity t meet these needs quickly and at a relatively lw cst. Streets with lwer vehicle vlumes and speeds and with bicycle bulevard design features are a key tl fr attracting new bicyclists wh are typically less cmfrtable riding in traffic r alng majr radways. Mrever, a survey f cunty residents indicated that the majrity f bth current and ptential users prefer lwstress facilities ver majr radways carrying high vlumes and/r speeds f traffic. Neighbrhd Bikeway Characteristics Neighbrhd bikeways take the cncept f shared radways t a new level, creating an attractive, cmfrtable and cnvenient cycling envirnment fr all bicyclists abilities Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 4

6 while maintaining aut access. Althugh each neighbrhd bikeway may vary greatly in specific design features, they will all have the same key characteristics: Lw Traffic Neighbrhd bikeways have lw traffic vlumes. Streets with vlumes less than 1,500 vehicles per day are ideal; between 1,500 and 4,000 vehicles per day is acceptable, and; streets with traffic vlumes exceeding 4,000 vehicles per day may require mdificatins t decrease nn lcal traffic vlumes when designated as neighbrhd bikeways. Lw Speed Neighbrhd bikeways have lw psted travel speeds t minimize the speed differential between mtrists and bicyclists and increase safety. Streets with travel speeds f 25 miles per hur r less are preferable fr neighbrhd bikeways. Radways with higher travel speeds may need t be slwed t an acceptable level with traffic calming when designated as a neighbrhd bikeway. Cnnectivity Neighbrhd bikeways cnnect destinatins such as grcery stres, schls, shpping centers, parks, transit centers. These designated rutes will cnnect t ther bicycle facilities and can fill gaps in the bicycle netwrk r ffer travel alternatives t streets with higher mtr vehicle speed and traffic. Neighbrhd bikeways will primarily serve lcal trips, but can als serve lnger trips by cnnecting t the brader bicycle netwrk and, in many cases, linking multiple neighbrhd bikeways. Gals and Plan Prcess The primary gals f the Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan / Study (Plan) are t: Prvide a netwrk that is lgical, easy t use, well marked, and distinctively signed. Prvide bicyclists efficient and cnvenient access t desired destinatins and cnnectivity t ther bike facilities. Imprve the cmfrt and safety f bicyclists f all ages and abilities. The Plan identifies a netwrk f lw speed, lw traffic streets that ffer access t lcal destinatins and alternatives t traveling n majr streets. The Plan prvides a set f tls and elements that, when implemented, may make these rutes mre pleasant fr peple wh live, walk, and bike n them. Finally, the Plan utlines sme ptential strategies fr implementing and marketing neighbrhd bikeways. The Cncept Plan fcuses n the urban unincrprated area f Washingtn Cunty. Urban unincrprated Washingtn Cunty is cmprised f a number f cmmunities and subareas that prvide a mre lcalized and refined analysis. In rder t identify a Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 5

7 netwrk f neighbrhd bikeways, the study area was delineated int eleven neighbrhd areas r sub areas. The sub area bundaries are generally based n majr streets r ther barriers and sized t abut 2 square miles, a reasnable lcal bike trip distance. The 11 sub areas are shwn belw. Develpment f the Plan included reprts that reviewed existing plans and plicies, best practices fr bike bulevard design, and specific needs, pprtunities, cnstraints and treatments. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 6

8 A Technical Advisry Cmmittee (TAC) was established t crdinate cmmunicatin with and participatin f relevant agency staff and cmmunity representatives. The TAC reviewed prject infrmatin and prvided guidance t Cunty staff n prducts, prject directin, and reslutin f technical, plicy, and regulatry issues. Cmmunity input TAC Rster and feedback Beavertn Bicycle Advisry Cmmittee thrugh cmmunity City f Hillsbr meetings, the Plan City f Tigard website, an nline Cmmunity members mapping app fr Oregn Department f Transprtatin cmmenting n Oregn Safe Rutes t Schl rutes, and e mails Tualatin Hills Park and Recreatin District Urban Rad Maintenance District Advisry Cmmittee sent t staff shaped Washingtn Cunty Health and Human Services the develpment f Washingtn Cunty Operatins & Maintenance the Plan. The public Washingtn Cunty Planning prvided key Washingtn Cunty Traffic Engineering insights infrming ruting, branding, and implementatin. The Plan respnds t public cmments regarding neighbrhd bikeway netwrk develpment t the extent practicable. The Plan helps infrm future plicy and decisin making, and will be integrated int existing peratinal plans and planning dcuments such as the Cunty s Transprtatin System Plan (TSP). Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 7

9 Existing Cnditins A recent inventry f bicycle and pedestrian facilities n urban arterials and cllectr radways in Washingtn Cunty indicates a lack f netwrk cnnectivity. Lack f a rad grid, prevalence f cul de sacs, and large natural and manmade barriers (e.g. industrial sites, wetlands, and rail crridrs) cntribute t the lack f cnnectivity. Mrever, residents that wuld r culd bike mre fr utilitarian purpses d nt because there is n cmfrtable r cnvenient netwrk t access their desired destinatins. Despite these cnstraints, there are many lw traffic, lw speed radways that culd serve as cmfrtable rutes and imprve netwrk cnnectivity. Hwever, since many f the ptential rutes are nt mapped and/r marked, these alternative rutes are underutilized. There are a variety f barriers and pprtunities particular t suburban envirnments in the Cunty that impact the develpment and implementatin f a neighbrhd bikeway netwrk. The fllwing is a summary f sme key barriers, pprtunities and ptential strategies t mitigate implementatin f a neighbrhd bikeway. Where apprpriate, infrmatin abut the knwn cnstraint(s) f this strategy is prvided. A mre cmprehensive discussin f gaps and barriers is presented in Appendix B. Chapter 4 Tls and Treatments and the Neighbrhd Bikeway Tlkit further discusses strategies t vercme these gaps and barriers. Street Cnnectivity A discnnected street pattern, as is cmmn in suburban cntexts like urban unincrprated Washingtn Cunty, limits rute ptins fr all radway users. Fewer rute chices, due t lwer street and intersectin densities, means that there are decreased pprtunities fr individuals t use lw stress streets t reach their destinatins. In general, the rutes that d cnnect t key destinatins (e.g. cmmercial centers, schls, and parks) are n higher rder streets with greater mtr vehicle vlumes and speeds. Traveling these higher rder streets n ft r by bike is less cmfrtable fr many individuals, and therefre these streets are generally nt recmmended fr neighbrhd bikeways. A secnd utcme f a discnnected street netwrk is that street cnnectins are ften indirect. Traveling t an adjacent neighbrhd, a lcal park, r a cmmercial area may be a shrt distance as the crw flies, but taking the existing street netwrk will lead t lnger travel times due t ut f directin travel. Since active transprtatin mdes are self pwered, ut f directin travel becmes a significant disincentive t walking and biking. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 8

10 Accessways Transprtatin users have fewer chices and less direct cnnectins in a nn grid street netwrk. The discnnected street netwrk in the suburban cntext can be augmented thrugh the use f accessways. Accessways are ften fund at the ends f cul de sacs r ther dead end streets and can prvide an active transprtatin cnnectin where n radway exists. The cunty has begun mapping and dcumenting public accessways. Due t absent r inadequate signing and marking, many accessways remain hidden frm public view and are used mstly by nearby residents. Thrugh better wayfinding, accessways culd becme an integral part f a future Neighbrhd Bikeway netwrk. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 9

11 Paper Streets Accessways can prvide cnnectins in discntinuus netwrks. The Cunty pssesses a number f unimprved rad right f ways, cmmnly referred t as paper streets, that present a unique pprtunity fr enhanced cnnectivity f the lcal rad netwrk fr bicycle and pedestrian travel. The cnditin f existing paper streets varies cnsiderably; sme include lcal resident develped paths (e.g. dirt paths, sawdust trails, gravel), while thers remain unattended and vergrwn with vegetatin. Paper streets that can fill in a gap in the bicycle and pedestrian netwrk and cnnect users t imprtant destinatins, r reginal trails, are imprtant t cnsider fr develpment as neighbrhd bikeways. Since the Cunty already pssesses the necessary right f way, n cstly easement acquisitins are necessary t establish these cnnectins. Paper streets hld ptential fr new neighbrhd bikeway cnnectins. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 10

12 Trails There are a number f reginal, lcal, and cmmunity trails in the cunty that can be incrprated int the neighbrhd bikeway netwrk. Trails prvide a lw stress active transprtatin envirnment that is attractive t neighbrhd bikeway users. Wayfinding signage, enhanced crssing lcatins, and ADA accessible transitins t trails frm n street bikeways are necessary t accmmdate all pedestrians and bicyclists. Cnnecting neighbrhd bikeways with trails helps prvide a netwrk f lw stress bikeways. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 11

13 Underutilized Cllectr Radways In general, Cllectr radways prvide mre direct cnnectins than Lcal r Neighbrhd streets. In Washingtn Cunty there are a number f Cllectr radways that d nt carry high vlumes f mtr vehicle traffic where speeds are als relatively lw. Many cllectrs are nt yet imprved t the Cunty Cllectr standard and in the interim, apprpriate traffic calming, pavement markings, and signage wuld make these streets ptential neighbrhd bikeway rutes. Cllectr rutes with lwer traffic speeds and vlumes, such as NW Burtn St., are ptential neighbrhd bikeway rutes. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 12

14 Natural Waterways/Wetlands A primary reasn Washingtn Cunty des nt have a traditinal grid netwrk is due t a desire t preserve and prtect waterways and wetlands. Where bridge cnnectins acrss waterways and wetland areas d nt exist, the street netwrk will either terminate r circumvent the area, which may cause ut f directin travel fr all users. Hwever, bicyclists and pedestrians ften benefit with existing r future lwer impact bicycle and pedestrian bridges that can cnnect neighbrhd bikeways acrss natural waterway and wetland barriers. Bridges can cnnect neighbrhd bikeways acrss waterway and wetland barriers. Freeways, Highways, and Railrads Washingtn Cunty is crssed by several majr highways. In general, lw traffic, lwspeed streets d nt crss highways, which reduces the availability f thrugh streets. Imprving cnnectivity with the develpment f additinal at grade crssings can als be challenging because state highways are gverned by the Oregn Department f Transprtatin (ODOT). Any prpsed changes, such as signals r crssings, must be apprved at the state level. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 13

15 Railrads present tw challenges t the develpment f a neighbrhd bikeway netwrk limited access and user safety. Similar t highways, mst railrad crssings are prvided n higher rder streets that may nt be suitable fr neighbrhd bikeway develpment. Imprving cnnectivity by adding additinal at grade crssing lcatins is seldm an ptin. Railrads are almst always gverned by an utside authrity and any prpsed changes that wuld affect rail peratins are at their discretin. Secndly, railrad tracks are frequently the cause f bicycle crashes nt invlving vehicles, as inexperienced riders can easily get a wheel trapped in the gap between the rail and the radway surface, r lse balance n uneven pavement surfaces. In additin, the small number f legal railrad crssings, such as in the vicinity f Tualatin Valley Highway (OR 8), can be a barrier fr access t the transit and bicycle netwrks. Signage and pavement markings are cmmnly used t alert bicyclists t crss railrad tracks at perpendicular angles, even when the maneuver is incnvenient. Prper signing and marking f a bikeway crssing f railrad tracks. Challenging Tpgraphy Areas that have steep terrain can be particularly challenging fr many bicyclists. The Tualatin Muntains and the vicinity f Cper Muntain are tw lcatins with challenging tpgraphy, with rad grades f 10% r mre. There is little t be dne t reduce grades. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 14

16 Active Transprtatin Cnnectins and Transitins Where active transprtatin facilities exist, such as n street bikeways and trails, it is smetimes hard t see frm the end f ne segment t the beginning f the next. Lack f clear directinal cues and cntinuus rutes decreases the verall usability f the netwrk. Peple walking and biking are likely t get cnfused, chse a subptimal travel rute, r bth. Mrever, where rutes terminate prematurely, r fail t direct users t the next leg f their rute, fewer individuals will chse t walk r bike. Incnsistency between Jurisdictinal Bikeways Secnd generatin bicycle bulevard pavement marking (indicates turn) Active transprtatin cnnectin cncerns are als apparent between lcal jurisdictins related t bikeway design, signage, maintenance, and ruting. Users are unlikely t ntice when they crss a jurisdictinal bundary, but culd becme cnfused if the transitin is nt seamless. Clse crdinatin between Cunty planning staff and lcal jurisdictins fr the planning and implementatin f active transprtatin facilities will help alleviate prblems f incnsistency. Lack f Knwledge abut Active Transprtatin Rutes Amng the public, there is nt a high level f awareness f existing lcal n street active transprtatin cnnectins, trail cnnectins, r the length f time required t walk r bike between typical rigins and destinatins. Actively marketing the active transprtatin netwrk, nt just neighbrhd bikeways, will help raise awareness f walking and bicycling in the cunty. A uniquely branded wayfinding system can be attractive t users and als cnvey t drivers that they are n a street where peple are walking and bicycling. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 15

17 Sign tppers can help with a uniquely branded wayfinding system. Crssings f Majr Streets Even with marked crssings, sme rads feel t uncmfrtable fr the average user t crss n ft r by bike. Fr example, in Washingtn Cunty, pedestrians and bicyclists must smetimes face crssing 5 lane arterials that d nt have features, such as midblck crssings, median refuge islands r rectangular rapid flashing beacns. It is inevitable that neighbrhd bikeways will need t crss these same radways. Where prpsed neighbrhd bikeways crss majr radways, these intersectins may be cnsidered fr crssing enhancements. Bth the Washingtn Cunty Bicycle Facility Design Tlkit and the Mid Blck Crssing Plicy can help identify the specific design needs f the intersectin t make it cmfrtable fr active transprtatin users. Mid blck crssings like this example (Rck Creek Trail at NW Evergreen Parkway) can help neighbrhd bikeways crss large arterial rads. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 16

18 Traffic Cntrl at Intersectins Repeated starting and stpping impacts bicyclists mre than individuals traveling by mtr vehicle because f the energy it takes t get rlling again. Travel that is selfpwered is mre efficient and pleasurable when the amunt f stp time alng a rute is minimal. Fr this reasn, traffic cntrl at intersectins is a vital element f planning neighbrhd bikeways. Bikeway rutes n lcal streets that have frequent stp signs can lead t bicyclist nn cmpliance because the cnstant stpping and starting is cumbersme. On lcal streets where the right f way is nt designated by a traffic cntrl device, it can be cnfusing fr all radway users. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 17

19 Ruting Apprach Gals and key characteristics f neighbrhd bikeways, alng with existing cnditins unique t Washingtn Cunty, infrm the apprach t ruting neighbrhd bikeways. The Cunty s apprach t ruting is based n best practices and a methdlgy mdified fr use in the suburban cntext. The methdlgy can be summarized in fur steps. [Cmplete ruting methdlgy details are prvided in Appendix C.] In Step 1, identify and rank cmmunity destinatins that wuld attract bicycle trips. In Step 2, map relevant attributes f the existing transprtatin and land use netwrk. In Step 3, identify ptential rutes using guiding principles and assessing key characteristics, netwrk gaps, and cmmunity input. Gals f Neighbrhd Bikeways Prvide a netwrk that is lgical, easy t use, well marked and distinctively signed. Prvide bicyclists efficient and cnvenient access t desired destinatins and cnnectivity t ther bike facilities. Imprve cmfrt and safety fr bicyclists f all ages and abilities. In Step 4, evaluate rutes t identify preferred neighbrhd bikeways. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 18

20 IDENTIFYING NEIGHBORHOOD BIKEWAYS IDENTIFY & RANK DESTINATIONS Cmpile list f destinatins Refine list f destinatins Weight destinatins Map lcatin + density f destinatins MAP RELEVANT NETWORK FEATURES Rad classificatins Trails + bikeways in neighbring jurisdictins Accessways + paper streets Radway slpe Cmmunity-identified rutes + gaps Signals, crssings, and traffic calming Transit rutes IDENTIFY POTENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD BIKEWAYS Prvide a netwrk that is lgical and easy t use Prvide cnvenient access t destinatins and cnnectivity t ther bike facilities Prvide cmfrtable and safe rutes fr bicyclists f all ages and abilities. EVALUATE & REFINE NEIGHBORHOOD BIKEWAYS Slicit feedback frm TAC members, Cunty staff, ther agencies, cmmunity grups, and the public Measure rute features (e.g. length, # f majr crssings, destinatins served) in GIS Test ride rutes and review Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 19

21 Step 1: Identify and Rank Destinatins A gd neighbrhd bikeway netwrk cnnects peple t the places they want t g. Bicycle netwrk planning fr this study fcused n creating targeted facilities fr active transprtatin users t mve between the places they wuld like t g. A list f cmmunity destinatins was generated based n cmmn trip destinatins fr residents. The list was narrwed dwn t 16 destinatin types that wuld be mre likely trip attractins fr bicyclists. Since sme destinatins attract mre trips than thers, a weighting system was devised. Destinatins and Weights Based n Attractiveness Lw Medium High Bars + pubs Shpping centers Parks Barber shps Fitness centers MAX stps + transit centers Beauty salns Restaurants Schls General merchandise Banks Libraries Mvie theaters Savings institutins Wrkplaces > 300 emplyees Credit unins Clleges + universities Specialty fd stres A pint and heat (density) map f these destinatins was generated fr use in the next ruting steps. Step 2: Map Existing Netwrk In Step 2, the Cunty examined relevant attributes, netwrk gaps, and cmmunity input fr neighbrhd bikeway ruting using maps and Gegraphic Infrmatin System (GIS) tls. Relevant attributes include: Rad classificatins Bikeways in neighbring jurisdictins Accessways Unimprved rad right f way (paper streets) Multi use trails Traffic calming features Traffic signals and mid blck crssings Transit rutes Cmmunity identified rutes Existing inventry/gaps in bicycle netwrk Radway slpe/grade Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 20

22 Step 3: Identify Ptential Neighbrhd Bikeways In Step 3, ptential rutes were identified that were judged t cnnect residents with destinatins and the wider bicycle netwrk. The fllwing cnsideratins, rganized by general themes f directness, cnnectivity, and safety, were used t identify rutes fr each f the subareas: Directness Make rutes reasnably cntinuus, minimizing jgs; Recgnize that nt all neighbrhd bikeways will get cmmunity members t the frnt dr f all their destinatins; Utilize accessways when needed but if an equally cnvenient rad is available, use the rad; Cnnectivity Priritize cnnectins t destinatins rather than spacing t gegraphic area equally; Cnnect rutes t existing multi use trails, bike lanes, and lw traffic thrugh streets in the Cunty and neighbring jurisdictins; Avid clse parallel cnnectins alng reginal trails; Cnnect rutes frm adjacent subareas when pssible; If a neighbrhd bikeway rute is nt pssible but destinatins need t be served, cnsider an Enhanced Bikeway n nearby arterial/cllectr streets. Cmfrt and Safety Priritize cmfrt and safety ver directness; Use lcal and neighbrhd streets befre chsing a cllectr; If chsing a cllectr, select rutes with lw traffic vlumes (3,000 vehicles per day r less) and lw traffic speeds (25 mph r less); Take advantage f streets with existing traffic calming; Avid r minimize steep hills/grades; Use signalized crssings where pssible, but cnsider that these lcatins may need upgrades; Suggest new crssing lcatins where apprpriate; Avid truck and bus rutes; Avid rads with existing bike lanes. Prpsed rutes are presented in Appendix A. Step 4: Evaluate and Refine Neighbrhd Bikeways In Step 4, the Cunty evaluated ptential neighbrhd bikeways using several factrs and using GIS analysis. The Cunty actively slicited initial feedback n the rutes frm the TAC members, Cunty staff, and ther agencies. Changes t the prpsed rutes based n their feedback were made befre presenting the rutes t the public. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 21

23 The public was asked t review the rutes, which were psted n the Cunty s website fr cmment using a GIS based mapping app. Over 100 cmments were received regarding specific lcatins, verall rutes, and suggestins fr additinal rutes. Neighbrhd bikeway netwrk maps were als presented t Citizen Participatin Organizatins (CPOs) and ther cmmunity grups. The Bicycle Transprtatin Alliance, a nn prfit lcal advcacy grup, assisted the Cunty by asking its members t test ride the rutes and prvide cmments. The cmments were used t add, remve and change prpsed rutes. Finally, Cunty staff checked all prpsed neighbrhd bikeways and rute alternatives by bike. This n the grund fieldwrk was used fr a final rund f refinements t the prpsed neighbrhd bikeway rutes. The final prpsed netwrk includes 96 miles f neighbrhd bikeways cvering the majrity f areas f Washingtn Cunty. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 22

24 Neighbrhd Bikeway Tls and Treatments A variety f tls are available t achieve the desired characteristics f a neighbrhd bikeway. The specific tls and treatments applied t a neighbrhd bikeway will vary with the unique cnditins and cntext f each rute. The treatments can be gruped int tw primary categries basic treatments and rute specific treatments. Basic treatments are used n all neighbrhd bikeway rutes. Rute specific treatments enhance bicycle travel and imprve safety n the neighbrhd bikeways including intersectin treatments, traffic calming and traffic reductin measures. In general, treatments f any neighbrhd bikeway may include: Signing and Pavement Markings (Basic Element) Intersectin Treatments (Rute Specific) Traffic Speed Management (Rute Specific) Traffic Vlume Management (Rute Specific) All f these items r a select few may be emplyed n a single crridr based upn the existing cnditins f the street fr bicycle travel. The cmbined impact f these elements is far greater than any single element alne. A brief descriptin f each f the treatment categries fllws. Additinal descriptins, illustratins, and cnsideratins regarding the tls and treatments are fund in the Neighbrhd Bikeway Tlkit in Appendix F. The selectin f the apprpriate tls shuld be determined in cllabratin with lcal residents, stakehlders and public agencies and may vary significantly frm ne crridr t the next. Signs and Pavement Markings Signs and pavement markings cmprise the basic elements f a neighbrhd bikeway. These elements differentiate the facility frm ther lcal streets as a neighbrhd bikeway, prviding bth bicyclists and mtrists infrmatin, directin, and warning. Signs and pavement marking treatments Warning Signage Mdified Street Signs Wayfinding Signage Pavement Markings Shared Lane Markings (SLMs) Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 23

25 Traffic Speed Management The clser the average perating speed f bicyclists is t mving vehicle traffic, the mre cmfrtable it is fr bicyclists. A small speed differential als has the added benefit f imprving mtrist s reactin time, thereby decreasing the chances f a crash invlving bicyclists, pedestrians and mtrists and reducing the chance f injury shuld a crash ccur. Fr this reasn, the mtr vehicle travel speeds n neighbrhd bikeways are preferred t be 25 mph r lwer (see the Washingtn Cunty Bicycle Design Tlkit s discussin f Bicycle Bulevards ). Treatments that reduce speed Raised Crsswalks Reduced Speed Limits Speed Display Bards Hrizntal and Vertical Deflectin Curb Extensins Mini Traffic Circles Speed Cushins and Speed Humps Narrw Streets Speed display bards have been shwn t slw traffic. Traffic Vlume Management Maintaining lw mtr vehicle vlumes belw 3,000 vehicles per day (VPD) will increase bicyclists cmfrt. T manage vlumes, physical r peratinal measures can be taken Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 24

26 n rutes that have been identified as a neighbrhd bikeway. If vlumes f 3,000 VPD are nt pssible fr a shrt segment f the neighbrhd bikeway, then an enhanced n street bikeway may be cnsidered. The vlume management elements belw als prvide an pprtunity fr landscaping, strmwater management, and ther pedestrian and bicycle supprtive amenities. Due t the cnstraints f existing sils in Washingtn Cunty, green strmwater treatments are nt currently being cnsidered as part f the Neighbrhd Bikeway Plan. Because many f these treatments are new t the Cunty, a public educatin campaign may be necessary t alert all radway users the need fr and safe use f these facilities. Intersectin Treatments The level f traffic cntrl installed at intersectins alng a neighbrhd bikeway is dependent n whether the intersectin ccurs at a majr r minr street and the cmplexity f the intersectin. These factrs dictate the level f treatment that shuld be cnsidered t make it safer, cnvenient, and cmfrtable fr active transprtatin users. Striking a balance between maximizing active transprtatin user Traffic vlume management treatments Traffic Restrictin Signage Chker Entrances Diagnal Traffic Diverters Median Diverters safety and minimizing delay will lead t a successful neighbrhd bikeway that feels lgical and cmfrtable fr all radway users. The diagram belw frm the Natinal Assciatin f City Transprtatin Officials (NACTO) Urban Bikeway Design Guide ffers guidance n design features that can be added as intersectin cmplexity increases, while accunting fr delay and safety cncerns. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 25

27 Striking a balance between safety and cnvenience n a neighbrhd bikeway is best accmplished by assessing intersectin cmplexity and adjusting the design accrdingly. Surce: NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide 2014 Minr Street Crssings Intersectins with minr streets may be cnsidered fr mdificatin t reduce bicyclist delay n neighbrhd bikeways. Based n current best practices ften the user traveling n the neighbrhd bikeway is given pririty creating fewer stps fr bicyclists. Fewer stps reduces travel time, minimizing effrts required t get started after stpping, and helps imprve cmpliance with traffic cntrl devices. Minr street crssing intersectin treatments Stp Sign Placement Mini Traffic Circles Majr Street Crssings At intersectins with majr radways, safety takes precedence abve minimizing delay fr bicyclists. There are many different kinds f treatments that may help t imprve safety at majr intersectins. Majr street crssing intersectin treatments Bicycle Detectin at Intersectins Bike Bxes Median Refuge Island Mid-blck Crssings Treatments fr Rute jgs Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 26

28 Implementatin and Funding Tday in Washingtn Cunty, there are numerus gaps in the bicycle netwrk. The Cunty is making prgress twards cnnecting these gaps but it will take substantial investments and many years t cmplete. Imprvements t lcal and neighbrhd streets can be built at a much lwer cst and implemented mre rapidly than imprvements t higher rder streets. The Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan prvides ptential netwrk investments that can make efficient use f resurces while substantially increasing netwrk cnnectivity. Currently there is n designated funding stream t implement the neighbrhd bikeway netwrk. Existing funding surces that may play a rle in future funding include: Grants (State and Federal) Majr Street Transprtatin Imprvement Prgram (MSTIP) Funds Urban Rad Maintenance District Safety Imprvement Prject Funds Minr Betterment Prgram Funds Fundatin Grants Installatin f the neighbrhd bikeways can currently be implemented under the existing authrity f the Cunty Engineer as peratinal traffic imprvements. It is expected that installatin f neighbrhd bikeways will be cmpleted by the Cunty ver time as funds becme available, rather than in cnjunctin with new develpment. Develpment f the neighbrhd bikeway netwrk will be accmplished by cllabrating with lcal residents, stakehlders and public agencies t determine hw t priritize investments and design slutins. Public utreach and educatin will help t maximize neighbrhd bikeway usage. A list f recmmended actins t fllw this plan is prvided in Appendix D. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 27

29 Prject Develpment Prcess The Cunty envisins a prject design will be cnducted prir t implementatin f any neighbrhd bikeway alng crridrs identified in the Plan. The purpses f the prject design is t gather technical data, wrk directly with the adjacent prperty wners and surrunding cmmunity, verify the viability f the rute as a neighbrhd bikeway, and identify apprpriate neighbrhd bikeway treatments. Althugh each crridr/prject will be unique, it is desirable t have a general utline fr the prject develpment prcess. Draft Prject Develpment Outline 1) Identify Prject Area Based n previusly decided appraches and priritizatin and may either be a rute crridr r an area. 2) Data Cllectin - Existing Cnditins First step in prject develpment, the data cllectin effrt will be tailred t fit the unique cnditins f the subject crridr. 3) Preliminary Prject Design-Alternatives During preliminary design, data and existing cnditins will be analyzed t prvide an assessment f the technical feasibility and ptential benefits r tradeffs f implementing a bike bulevard. They may als be used t understand the level t which traffic calming and/r traffic diversin wuld be necessary t achieve the desired cnditins f a bike bulevard, as described in the key neighbrhd bikeway characteristics. 4) Public Meeting #1 The first public meeting is an pprtunity t intrduce neighbrs t the cncept f neighbrhd bikeways and the tls and treatments t maintain r achieve the desired characteristics. Treatment r rute alternatives will be presented if applicable. 5) Refine Prject Design Based n cmmunity feedback and any additinal data, design alternatives will be refined t a recmmended prject design. 6) Public Meeting #2 The cmmunity will be presented with the recmmended design and schedule. Any additinal cncerns r questins abut installatin will be addressed. 7) Apprval f Cunty Engineer 8) Identify funding and prceed t cnstructin/installatin 9) Educatin and marketing f Neighbrhd Bikeway Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 28

30 The prcess will likely be refined as Cunty staff engage in prject develpment and learn frm each prject experience. Additinal infrmatin relating t prject develpment and implementatin can be fund in Appendix E. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 29

31 Public Invlvement and Outreach Cmmunity utreach and invlvement are essential fr success f the Neighbrhd Bikeway Plan, rute implementatin and use f the netwrk. Residents are interested and cncerned abut changes t radways near their hmes and rutes they cmmnly travel. There may be negative perceptins f the cncept r ptential impacts that will need t be addressed, and psitive experiences that shuld be celebrated. It is imprtant t reach ut t the public at the different stages f neighbrhd bikeway develpment and implementatin. This sectin first summarizes neighbrhd bikeways utreach perfrmed thus far. It then cvers neighbrhd bikeways educatin, prject specific utreach and marketing. Outreach Thus Far Plan Develpment As f June 2014, the Cunty has made substantial public utreach during the develpment f this plan, as described in the Gals and Plan Prcess and Ruting sectins. In shrt, by using a variety f media (e.g. prject websites and lists), the Cunty has infrmed the public abut neighbrhd bikeways in general, tls and treatments, prpsed rutes, and public TAC meetings. The riginal prpsed rutes were develped with the help f an app n the Cunty s website during Octber December 2013, in which participants were able t draw lines n a map t identify rutes, as well as pst ntes at lcatins they have identified as pprtunities r cnstraints. The app was publicized via the cunty s list and bike/ped webpage, and tw majr lcal websites (BikePrtland.rg and OregnLive.cm ) published stries n the effrt. Rutes were refined by psting the rutes in a separate mapping app during May and June, The public prvided ver 100 cmments n these rutes. Thrughut the prject, Washingtn Cunty will cntinue t emply these practices, which are cnsistent with best practices frm jurisdictins arund the cuntry that have successfully implemented bicycle bulevards (e.g. Santa Mnica, CA, Tucsn, AZ and Prtland, OR). Prir t adptin f any neighbrhd bikeway map r supprting material int existing plans such as the Cunty s Transprtatin System Plan, there will be additinal utreach and pprtunities fr public cmments. Educatin Neighbrhd bikeways are a new cncept t Washingtn Cunty residents and prperty wners. General public educatin f a neighbrhd bikeway s purpse and functin will be helpful t cunty residents and prperty wners. Until neighbrhd bikeways are cnstructed, phts and ther visualizatin tls will be useful t shw Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 30

32 residents what changes t expect and what they might experience as a bicyclist n a neighbrhd bikeway. Public utreach materials, including vides, t cmmunicate the purpse, functin, and benefits f neighbrhd bikeways can be develped s that a cnsistent message is shared with the cmmunity. This infrmatin can als educate users abut the different terminlgies (e.g. neighbrhd bikeway, bike bulevard, neighbrhd greenway) used by varius jurisdictins while emphasizing the cnsistency f the facilities. Psting materials and vides n the Cunty s Neighbrhd Bikeway website and prviding ways t cntact staff with questins will als be integral t the educatin prcess. Successful educatin utreach may als include tabling at varius events lcated at schls, farmers markets, and cmmunity events arund the cunty, and making presentatins t neighbrhd, business, and schl assciatin meetings. Prject Develpment Outreach The transitin f a street int a neighbrhd bikeway can change the appearance and functin f the street. In cnducting a neighbrhd bikeway prject, a public utreach prcess will be implemented that allws the prperty wners alng the rute and in adjacent crridrs and the larger cmmunity t be invlved in the prcess. Reaching ut t adjacent prperty wners early in the prcess helps t alleviate cncerns abut traffic impacts, parking issues, and prperty access befre majr planning is underway. The neighbrhd bikeway cncept can als be clarified since it can entail a cmbinatin f treatments in rder t make the street mre cmfrtable fr active transprtatin. Initial utreach t prperty wners is imprtant and may include mailers and flyers that can better explain the cncept f neighbrhd bikeways and their benefits and may attract supprt fr the prject prir t any public meetings. Public meetings are an imprtant step in any prject develpment prcess in that they help develp an understanding f needs and cncerns f the cmmunity as well as educate the public n the cncept and purpse f the prject. It is envisined that ne r tw public meetings will help supprt a neighbrhd bikeway prject develpment prcess. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 31

33 Optinal utreach tls and appraches Small grup wrkshp(s) with adjacent prperty wners; Public pen huse(s); Use f established neighbrhd grups, bicycle advcacy grups, r ther nn-prfit rganizatins that prmte nn-mtrized travel t engage the public, reach their cnstituents, and advertise public meetings; Presentatins at established neighbrhd/schl meetings; Walking r biking tur f crridr with residents; Dr-t-dr surveys t slicit input frm prperty wners, including thse wh may nt be inclined t participate in cmmunity meetings; Direct mailings t residents and businesses alng r near the crridr; Pst current infrmatin n a prject website, and include cntact infrmatin and/r slicit input directly n the website; Use f scial media t advertise cmmunity meetings and/r website updates; Vides and ther visualizatin r interactive materials t share user experience; Use f an interpreter fr meeting flyers and at cmmunity meetings; Frame the discussin arund verall benefits f a neighbrhd bikeway (walkability and livability) t help engage prperty wners wh may nt be interested in cycling. Outreach shuld be custmized t meet the needs f the specific cmmunity and prject area. Many f the cmmn cncerns can be adequately addressed during a public utreach prcess. Residents, wners, and any ther cncerned cmmunity members will have the pprtunity t discuss safety issues thrughut the prcess. Marketing The active prmtin f the rute and netwrk t the cmmunity is an imprtant step in cntinuing the successful build ut f the cunty s bicycle netwrk. Marketing can celebrate the success f active travel alng neighbrhd Other key messaging pints abut benefits: bikeways and is imprtant fr Imprve safety fr all users establishing the value f these Prtect residential character and livability Make biking an ptin fr mre users facilities fr the cmmunity. Supprt safe rutes t schl On a larger scale, increased marketing f lw stress bikeways will help t alleviate general fears and skepticism abut using active transprtatin. Calmer, quieter streets are great places fr peple t walk, bike, and skate. Prmting the neighbrhd bikeway netwrk as a great place t spend time utdrs and be active is a gd way t increase psitive sentiment in the cmmunity abut these facilities. Marketing will be mst effective when the Cunty reaches ut and crdinates with cmmunity partners, wh ften have marketing experience and innvative ideas. Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 32

34 Calmer, quieter streets are great places fr peple t walk, bike, and skate. Pht: Greg Raisman Many jurisdictins hst annual festivals that celebrate walking and biking by temprarily restricting mtr vehicle access n select rutes (e.g. Sunday Parkways in Prtland, OR, Open Streets in Minneaplis, MN, and Summer Streets r Play Streets in NYC). These festivals encurage peple t get utside, talk with neighbrs, walk, bike, and play in places that are usually reserved fr the use f vehicles. Neighbrhd bikeways are excellent places t hst street festivals because they are already lw traffic rads that ften have a strng neighbrhd feel. These events help reinfrce the value f neighbrhd bikeways fr the cmmunity and can help increase supprt fr their develpment in ther areas f the cmmunity. Establishing a unique style f wayfinding signage r graphic images that clearly differentiate Washingtn Cunty s neighbrhd bikeways frm ther kinds f facilities will imprve the visibility f the netwrk as a whle. Unique branding can help users navigate transitins between facilities better and increase awareness. Fr example, if an n street neighbrhd bikeway transitins t an existing multi use path, the path may already have a sign identifying it as such. Hwever, a secnd sign f a differing clr and/r shape will allw users t quickly identify the rute as being part f the Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 33

35 neighbrhd bikeway netwrk. The unique branding allws existing facilities t mre easily serve a dual purpse. Sharing infrmatin t the cmmunity abut the new rutes may als take the frm f maps bth n paper and the web. These maps can ffer bicyclists the Ptential partners fr marketing: pprtunity and cnfidence t Businesses Schls explre areas f their neighbrhd Park Districts and reach destinatins that they had Libraries nt cnsidered accessing by bike r Citizen Participatin Organizatins n ft. These maps can include Hme Owners Assciatins cmmunity destinatins and Bicycle Clubs businesses and may be prduced thrugh partnerships. Other cmmunity grups Neighbrhd Bikeway Cncept Plan 34