Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Everything you always wanted to know

PRESTO presents 15 Fact sheets on Infrastructure planning for cycling in urban areas. Cycle lanes: A cycle lane is a legally reserved driving space for cyclists on the road. Cycle Tracks A cycle track is the highest-quality cycling infrastructure. Cycle streets A cycle street is a road so designed that cyclists dominate visually and motorized traffic is tolerated as a guest. Traffic calming and cycling On quiet, residential streets, road space can be safely and comfortably shared by all users. Contra-flow cycling is when cyclists are allowed to ride against the flow of one-way streets. Bicycle and buses Mixing bicycles and buses is a safety issue. Cyclists and pedestrians Cyclists and pedestrians mix easily. Traffic-light intersections are inherently dangerous for cyclists. Roundabout intersections Simple one-lane roundabouts are the safest intersection type for all users. Right-of-way mixed traffic is the simplest, most agreeable approach for cyclists on quiet intersections. Grade-separation for cyclists includes cycling tunnels and cycling bridges. Bicycle parking and storage solutions Dispersed, small bicycle parking systems, such as inverted U-stands, allow cyclists to park and attach their bicycle for short periods and near their destination. Bicycle parking in residential areas In residential areas, all residents should have safe overnight storage for a bicycle. Bicycle parking in the city centre All cities serious about cycling should develop a strategy for bicycle parking in the city centre. Cycling facilities at interchanges Bicycle parking at train stations and metro, tram, light rail and bus stops encourage cyclists to make combined longer trips.