While every street needs ongoing maintenance, streets on a city’s bike network need special attention. Bikes and micromobility devices—especially those with small or narrow tires and wheels—are more susceptible to debris, ice, potholes, large cracks, and other surface imperfections.
In many cities, bikeway maintenance practices will be iterative. It will take time to determine the best equipment for the local context, set the correct service levels, and solve coordination issues, such as with utility work, that change with the addition of bikeways. Collaboration and shared learning across teams is essential. Coordinate directly with maintenance crews inside and outside of the implementing agency to understand what tools, skills, and funding will be needed to keep the bikeway clear and rideable all year. City leaders should prioritize funding for maintenance and demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt.
If possible, fold bike project maintenance into maintenance for other transportation infrastructure, such as sidewalks. Combining maintenance plans can help ensure that all street users feel respected and ease opposition to new bike facilities among those who do not ride bikes.
Maintenance concerns, while valid, are not a reason to stop a bikeway project or diminish an All Ages & Abilities design. It is perfectly acceptable to not have all of the answers at the design, or even implementation, stage. Cities across North America have found successful strategies and continue to innovate.