Have you noticed the new green markings in the bicycle lanes around town? They are the result of several years work by a Town committee tasked with creating a comprehensive Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan. The primary purposes for the development of the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan are to:
- Improve bicycle and pedestrian safety.
- Provide a comprehensive plan for bicycle and pedestrian improvements throughout the Town.
- Provide connectivity with adjacent agencies.
- Become more strategic and successful competing for bicycle and pedestrian grant funding.
- Identify barriers and solutions for residents to safely access bicycle and pedestrian destinations within the Town of Atherton and to other regional destinations.
Creation of the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan allowed the Town to apply and get funding from the Metropolitan Transportation Committee (MTC) for bicycle safety improvements. The green bicycle lanes serve to remind drivers to share the road with bicycles and are located at heavily-biked areas in Town and along all "Safe Routes to School" routes.
Most of the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan has been implemented, but the Town is seeking input about adding green designated bicycle lanes along Middlefield Road and El Camino Real.
To review the Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan, or to comment on additional bicycle lane needs, please visit the Town Website at: http://www.ci.atherton.ca.us and click on the "Open Town Hall" button on the left.
For bicycle safety, please note that a vehicle can enter a bicycle lane only under the following conditions:
1) To park where parking is permitted (as long as your vehicle does not block a bicyclist and/or there is not a "No Parking" sign posted).
2) To enter or leave the roadway.
3) To prepare for a turn within a distance of 200 feet from the intersection.
And finally, drivers must give a bicyclist 3' of clear space when passing, whether the bicycle is in the bike lane or on the roadway.