Atherton’s bike path on Middlefield Road has been improved with the installation of new striping and a splash of color. In response to concerns raised by commuting cyclists, the Town hired Alta Planning and Design, a nationally known bicycle consultant, to recommend upgrades to the heavily used intersection of Middlefield Road at Marsh Road. Alta’s plan was implemented today to better guide cyclists and motorists through the intersection. The work includes the first use in Atherton of fluorescent green paint, a recent innovation to improve safety through better visibility of bike paths. The work also includes the installation of a sign showing a bicycle and two chevron arrows, called a “sharrow” which advises motorists and cyclists to share the road. The Town directed the contractor to paint the intersection improvements as a test of the new paint and markings. If deemed effective, more of these sharrows and more green paint or thermoplastic markings will be installed on roads selected by City Council from the list of $12 million of potential improvements in the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan.