Low-Stress Bicycle Lanes for the Urban Core's High-Stress Streets.

Abstract

Bicycle facilities have become an integral pattern in the language of almost every metropolitan city in the United States (US). A successful pattern creates a smoother language throughout the city. A smooth language means that vehicles and pedestrians efficiently flow throughout the city. For bicycle riding in urban streets, success occurs when bicycle facilities are safe, effective and inviting for cyclists—especially for less confident riders. Designers, planners, and engineers can either create safer conditions if done right or create conflicts if not thoroughly crafted. Currently, many urban cities in the US do not have bicycle facilities that are comfortable enough for less-confident riders to utilize. I use case studies to determine the measure of low-stress and high-stress bicycle facilities and their effects on both cyclist volumes and urban core streets. Literature reviews, precedent studies, and data analysis are also used to understand the worries and desire of people who are interested in bicycling, but concerned about their safety. Their presence in the street is a measure of street’s stress level. My guidelines and designs in this dissertation aim to promote and create safe, comfortable, and pleasurable bike facilities for the category of “Interested but Concerned” bicycle riders. Accomplishing this will increase ridership and strengthen bicycling as a viable mode of transportation within the urban core.