In May 2010, City of Coquitlam Council approved, in principle, a proposed cross-town bicycle route for implementation as part of its strategic goals of strengthening neighbourhoods and enhancing the sustainability of city services and infrastructure. The cross-town bicycle route (CTBR) is 17 km long and connects northeast Coquitlam to a multitude of destinations through southwest Coquitlam. Approximately 60 percent of the route is located on existing bicycle routes, with the remainder located on designated future routes or on low-volume local street. However, six sections were identified, primarily where the route has to cross major Arterials roads that required more analyses to address safety and improve the quality of the cyclists’ experience. Challenges included: -transitioning between multi-use paths and on-street facilities, -having bike paths safely cross multi-lane arterials and on-ramps, -providing guidance and facilities when an on-street route makes a 90 degree turn -reducing conflicts where multi-use paths cross intersections, particularly channelized right turn lanes -placement of bollards on multi-use paths Insufficient guidance on some of these issues was provided in current standards, and practices were inconsistent even along the bike route itself. Opus conducted a cycle-through with stakeholders, reviewed geometrics and signing, and conducted a best practices review. Based on these tasks, we developed solutions including signing, pavement marking and geometric changes to best accommodate cyclists in this constrained environment. Solutions included property dedications for off-street routes, recommendations for wayfinding, “branding” of the route, more consistent design standards, and diagrammatic directional signage at confusing transitions. A Functional Plan was prepared to recommend bike facilities, pavement marking and signage plans, cost estimates and a technical brief summarizing the findings, with associated drawings. The plan was well received by cycling advocates and will be used to identify short term improvements, long-term improvements, modifications to standards and needed dedications with redevelopment.
