The Ultimate Guide to Bikeways: Types, Benefits, and Design Considerations

A bikeway is a road or path that is specifically designed and built for the safe and comfortable use of cyclists. Bikeways can be found in many different forms, including:

1. Separated bike lanes: These are designated lanes on the road that are separated from traffic by a physical barrier, such as a curb or a row of parked cars.
2. Bike paths: These are dedicated paths for cycling that are not on the road, but rather on a separate right-of-way.
3. Shared use paths: These are paths that are designed for both cyclists and pedestrians to use.
4. Cycle tracks: These are designated lanes on the road that are designed specifically for cycling, and may be separated from traffic by a physical barrier or not.
5. Bike boxes: These are designated areas at intersections where cyclists can wait ahead of traffic, and then proceed through the intersection when it is safe to do so.
6. Sharrows: These are markings on the road that indicate where cyclists should position themselves within the lane.
7. Bike signals: These are specialized traffic signals that are designed specifically for cyclists, and may be mounted on the road or overhead.
8. Bike boxes with traffic lights: These are designated areas at intersections where cyclists can wait ahead of traffic, and then proceed through the intersection when it is safe to do so, with a traffic light that is specifically designed for cyclists.

Bikeways can be used for both commuting and recreational cycling, and they can help to improve safety, reduce traffic congestion, and promote physical activity and sustainable transportation.