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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation
FHWA Highway Safety Programs

Recommended Actions: USDOT Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and Recommendations

Comment:
Recommendations for local governments, professional associations, community organizations, public transportation agencies, and other government agencies, to adopt similar policy statements on bicycle and pedestrian accommodation as an indication of their commitment to accommodating bicyclists and pedestrians as an integral element of the transportation system. Includes: Considering walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation modes, Ensuring that there are transportation choices for people of all ages and abilities, especially children, Going beyond minimum Design Standards: Transportation agencies are encouraged, when possible, to avoid designing walking and bicycling facilities to the minimum standards, Integrating bicycle and pedestrian accommodation on new, rehabilitated, and limited-access bridges, Collecting data on walking and biking trips, Setting mode share targets for walking and bicycling and tracking them over time, Removing snow from Sidewalk and Shared Paths, Improving non motorized facilities during maintenance projects.

Last Updated (Year): 2010

Year Produced: 2010

Abstract:

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) is providing this Policy Statement to reflect the Department’s support for the development of fully integrated active transportation networks. The establishment of well-connected walking and bicycling networks is an important component for livable communities, and their design should be a part of Federal-aid project developments. Walking and bicycling foster safer, more livable, family-friendly communities;promote physical activity and health;and reduce vehicle emissions and fuel use. Legislation and regulations exist that require inclusion of bicycle and pedestrian policies and projects into transportation plans and project development. Accordingly, transportation agencies should plan, fund, and implement improvements to their walking and bicycling networks, including linkages to transit. In addition, DOT encourages transportation agencies to go beyond the minimum requirements, and proactively provide convenient, safe, and context-sensitive facilities that foster increased use by bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities, and utilize universal design characteristics when appropriate. Transportation programs and facilities should accommodate people of all ages and abilities, including people too young to drive, people who cannot drive, and people who choose not to drive.

For:Walking, Biking

The E's:Enforcement, Encouragement

Ped Bike Activity:

  • Planning
  • Advocacy

Ped Bike Topic:

  • Safety Promotion
  • Policy
  • Planning
  • Bicycle Planning
  • Accessibility

Resource Type:

  • Policy

Link to Content Source:

USDOT Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and …