Mass. Ave. Bike Lane Public Meeting Thursday, April 14, 2011
Doug Mink
FROM THE HARVARD BRIDGE TO SYMPHONY AREA
Boston Public Library, Copley Square Main Branch
April 14, 2011 7:00-9:00 PM
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
-Nicole Freedman