The protected intersection is emerging as a key component of all-ages-and-abilities bike networks in North America. With more cities implementing protected intersections, NACTO members are in need of guidance and research to facilitate their design and implementation. This Cities for Cycling Roadshow will provide an opportunity to discuss the design and maintenance of protected intersections, and to develop recommended guidance for inclusion in the 3rd edition of the Urban Bikeway Design Guide. NACTO is excited to work with the City of Boston to advance the installation of protected intersections in Boston, spurring more discussion on their design and operation among NACTO cities.
As part of the its work as a Green Lane Project city, the City of Boston is incorporating protected intersections in the upcoming top-to-bottom redesign of one of its signature streets, Commonwealth Avenue. This marquee project will be constructed in 2017. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation continues to be an innovative partner in these efforts, and recently released its Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design Guide—even featuring an image of a protected intersection on the cover. Within the city’s many neighborhoods and diverse street types, there is great potential to create safer intersections for people bicycling and walking.