Cycle network and route planning guide - NZ Transport Agency
Cycle network and route planning guide - NZ Transport Agency
Cycle network and route planning guide - NZ Transport Agency
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3.4 General <strong>route</strong><br />
requirements<br />
Cyclists’ <strong>route</strong>s should provide:<br />
• safety<br />
• comfort<br />
• directness<br />
• coherence<br />
• attractiveness.<br />
3.4.1 Safety<br />
<strong>Cycle</strong> <strong>route</strong>s should be safe, provide<br />
personal security, <strong>and</strong> limit conflict between<br />
cyclists <strong>and</strong> others.<br />
Traffic speed <strong>and</strong> volume affect cyclists’<br />
safety. As these increase, it may be<br />
more desirable to separate cyclists from<br />
motorists. Safe provision at intersections<br />
is crucial.<br />
Public lighting <strong>and</strong> other features that<br />
improve personal safety are also crucial.<br />
Cyclists should always have available a<br />
convenient <strong>route</strong> that provides a high level<br />
of personal safety. Routes used at night<br />
should have lighting.<br />
Cyclists’ perceptions of safety are<br />
important. Appropriate infrastructure<br />
st<strong>and</strong>ards <strong>and</strong> design will help cyclists feel<br />
more secure.<br />
Safety — traffic slowed where cycle path crosses minor road — Nelson, New Zeal<strong>and</strong>. (Photo: Tim Hughes)<br />
3.4.2 Comfort<br />
Cycling <strong>route</strong>s should be smooth, non-slip,<br />
well maintained <strong>and</strong> free of debris, have<br />
gentle slopes, <strong>and</strong> be designed to avoid<br />
complicated manoeuvres.<br />
Rain <strong>and</strong> wind discourage cycling.<br />
Measures to reduce their effects <strong>and</strong> make<br />
cycling more enjoyable include:<br />
• considering walls, embankments or<br />
suitable hedges next to paths, but being<br />
aware of maintaining public surveillance<br />
• paying attention to exposed paths near<br />
foreshores or ridges<br />
• providing shelter at critical destinations.<br />
(Bach, 1992).<br />
Comfort — path with good surface, some shielding from weather <strong>and</strong> no motor traffic, Christchurch,<br />
New Zeal<strong>and</strong>. (Photo: Kym Dorrestyn)<br />
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