Public Meeting: Bike Lanes on Mass Ave April 14, 2011

PUBLIC MEETING TO ASSESS INTEREST IN BIKE LANES ON MASS AVE FROM THE HARVARD BRIDGE TO SYMPHONY AREA

What are bike lanes? Bike lanes are sections of road designated for exclusive use by cyclists. Paint or thermoplastic lane markings plus accompanying signage mark the bike lanes.

Why install bike lanes on Mass Ave? Mass Ave currently sees some of the highest volumes of cycling in the City. It is the spine of the bike network in the City. At peak periods, cyclists account for 6-14% of all vehicle traffic. However, Mass Ave has the highest accident rate for cyclists in the City. Bike lanes can dramatically improve safety and facilitate cycling for more novice cyclists.

What about safety? Bike lanes are proven to make the roads safer for all users. Proposed plans would improve safety in the following ways.
• Designate a safe riding zone for cyclists;
• Provide guidance for vehicles wishing to pass cyclists;
• Encourage cars to drive at slower, safer speeds;
• Encourage cyclists to bicycle more respectfully and predictably;
and,
• Make pedestrians and drivers more aware of cyclists.

Describe the design The proposed design includes a standard 5’ bike lane on either side of Mass Ave. To allow for a bike lane, either parking or a travel lane would need to be removed. The engineers have evaluated the impacts of both options and will be prepared to discuss the issues in detail.

What are the project limits and scope? The bike facilities being discussed would extend from the Mass Ave Bridge to Symphony area.

What does the City do for education and enforcement? The City supports facilities through education and enforcement of the rules of the road for cyclists and drivers. Boston Police are key partners on all of Boston Bikes endeavors.

Boston Bikes is part of Mayor Menino's vision for a vibrant and healthy city that benefits all its citizens. It seeks to make Boston a world-class bicycling city by creating safe and inviting conditions for all residents.