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Monday, June 1, 2009
NYC’s cycling improvements
Since Austin is in the midst of getting the proposed 2020 Master Bike Plan passed through the city council, I thought it would be interesting to see how New York City has upgraded their bicycling infrastructure. From Bike Rumor, here’s some interesting facts. …
Although New York City used other U.S. and International cities as a model for improving and building more than 200 miles of lanes and paths over the last three years, it’s now a model for the rest of us looking to improve our own city’s cycling facilities.
Some of the ideas institued in NYC’s new and existing lanes include:
- Bike Boxes (see video) that give cyclists advance line ups at traffic lights, making them more visible to turning traffic.
Wider bicycle lanes with buffers against parked cars and traffic, reducing “dooring” and vehicular intrusion.
Green colored bike lanes that visually differentiate them from traffic lanes.
Intersection markings and turn lane guides for both motorists and cyclists.
It’s encouraging to see one of the most car-centric cities in the world building out proper cycling infrastructure, and it’s even more encouraging to see that so many people are using it and clamoring for more!
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Safe passing bill passes Senate
From the folks at Bike Texas. …
The final version of the Safe Passing Bill, SB 488, was passed by the Texas House. On Monday, the Senate voted on it, and overwhelmingly voted to pass it.
That was the final step for the bill to complete in the Legislature. Now, it will be sent to Governor Perry, and we are cautiously optimistic that he will sign it into law. We will know the outcome by June 21, the last day the Governor can sign or veto bills.
Thank you all for your help and support so far. We will keep you updated on the bill’s progress.
I really hope Gov. Perry will sign this into law, but my next question is how will drivers know about it? Cycling organizations, advocacy groups and law enforcement should pull together and get the word out beyond the cycling community. It won’t do anyone much good if motorists speed along without a clue about the new three feet law.
