Convenient and safer commuter, business and recreational bicycling in Columbus, Ohio, may soon be a reality with implementation of the Columbus Bikeway Master Plan. The plan will update existing bicycle facilities in the city and identify, evaluate, prioritize and recommend future connecting links within and connecting to the city. The goal is to develop a complete system using shared-use paths and on-street bikeways.

Most existing Columbus bikeways are off-road trails used primarily for recreation. A more comprehensive network of on-street bike lanes is needed to encourage commuter and business use. The existing network, which originated in the 1960s, will be appraised to determine gaps, barriers and bottlenecks that prevent cyclists from traveling to destinations within a neighborhood, throughout the city and to connecting points within the regional bikeway system.

The plan will reinforce one of the City of Columbus’ Get Green Columbus initiatives, to encourage mobility alternatives that decrease dependence on petroleum-based fuels while improving outdoor air quality. US Census Bureau transportation data indicates that bicycle use declined in Columbus between 1990 and 2000. The Columbus Bikeway Master Plan is one effort designed to reverse that trend.

The current network will be assessed for:

• Accessibility from points of origin

• Comfort level of streets used in terms of vehicle traffic, crossing protection, lane width, driveways, man-made and natural barriers and other items

• Topography and grades

• Support facilities such as benches, drinking fountains and bicycle-storage facilities at major destinations

Recommended bikeway improvements will likely include:

• New or relocated bicycle routes, lanes or paths

• Crossing protection (loop detectors, signals, signs, lighting)

• Support facilities (racks on buses, lockers, showers, parking facilities)

• Changes in roadway striping and signage for existing/proposed facilities

• Paving, grate replacement and shoulder widening for existing/proposed facilities

• On-street parking changes for existing/proposed facilities

• Zoning changes/additions and performance standards

• Improved maintenance program

• Access to local and regional transit and commuter rails
   

Education and public awareness will build on what the City of Columbus has already created, resulting in a customized bicycle safety, marketing and education handbook that identifies existing local and regional efforts and presents a standardized approach. Marketing strategies include logo and signage, fairs, races, employer incentives and route “adoption” by community groups.

The stakeholder group held its kickoff meeting in June 2007 and included representatives from government, Central Ohio Transit Authority, bicycle-community interests, environmental organizations and private individuals. The group will advise the City of Columbus, MORPC and the consultant team of regional bicycle issues and how to properly plan for cyclists of all skill levels.

A public workshop will be held Wed., Sept. 26 from 5-8pm at North Bank Park’s pavilion, 311 W. Long St. Representatives from the City of Columbus, MORPC and the consultant team will provide an overview of existing and proposed facilities followed by a breakout session where small groups can formulate ideas then present them to all in attendance. The proposed plan will be presented at a December 2007 public open house.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the public meetings and provide input on the project. More information, project documents and presentation materials are on the city’s website.