Construction activities and related traffic diversions are expected in cities. Balancing construction needs with evolving bike infrastructure requires proactive planning, flexible solutions, and a commitment to prioritizing safety and multi-modal access. Adhering to specific principles for temporary traffic control can address the unique challenges that arise during construction in cities with expanding bikeway networks.
Principles for temporary traffic control:
Prioritize safety and multi-modal access. Construction management plans must prioritize the safety and movement of pedestrians, people on bikes, and transit users above motor vehicle traffic flow. Inconveniences to motorists are acceptable. Walkways and bikeways should not be removed or restricted until every other option has been explored.
Acknowledge disparate impacts of construction. While disruptions to all users are inevitable, pedestrians, people on bikes, and construction workers are most sensitive to changes that result from a temporary traffic control plan. Detours and inadequate separation from motor vehicle traffic are barriers to people walking or biking.
Communicate priorities to contractors and the public. Contractors should understand that they are responsible for safely and directly accommodating pedestrian and bike traffic. Details about temporary traffic controls, including the duration of the work, specific blocks affected, and any alternative routes available, should be posted both onsite and online.