Stop #1: Woonerf
The first stop of our journey was to see a woonerf. This name doesn't sound too technical, but it is fun to say. In fact, the playfulness of the word kind of captures the impact it has on neighborhoods. Woonerfs are implemented in residential streets to promote pedestrians. The main features include slowing auto traffic and relocating parking (out of street). Getting back to the playfulness of the word, a woonerf results in a neighborhood where kids can play safely and freely. For more on woonerfs, see the Northeastern blog.
Stop #2: Roundabout w/ Bike Priority
The second stop on our tour was a roundabout. Since we are in the Netherlands, the Dutch decided to add a bike lane to the roundabout. The geometry, pavement markings, and signage give cyclists priority throughout the entire roundabout. Theoretically, a cyclist could circle for hours without having to yield or stop. A key safety factor is the lighting; it is placed so that each point of conflict is illuminated at night for each mode. For more on the roundabout, visit the Northeastern blog.
Stop #3: Buitenwatersloot
Buitenwatersloot is a bicycle boulevard along the canal near Oude Delft. It has a semipermeable barrier to allow for through movement of bikes, but inhibit the through movement of cars. The barrier along this section had a control to lower for the local buses. By eliminating the through movement of cars, the bike boulevard has limited the auto users of the road to delivery drivers and local residents, This allows for a bike-friendly environment. For more on the Buitenwatersloot, see the Northeastern blog.
Stop #4: Two-Lane Cycle Track
A two-lane cycle track provides a separated and protected path for bicycles. The thick white lines contrasting with the red pavement provides a clear message to drivers that they are approaching a two-lane cycle track. In addition, the cycle track remains level through intersections. Not only do cars have to yield to the cycle track, but they are forced to yield through elevated platforms. For more on the two-lane cycle track, visit the Northeastern blog. In the Northeastern blog, I suggested a potential site for a two-way cycle track in my hometown (Yucaipa, CA). *Note: The Cycle Track blog for my group is having technical difficulties, I will update this posting when the problem is resolved.*
Stop #5: Protected Intersection
Yes, EVEN the Netherlands has large signalized intersections. When I see an intersection in the US, the bike line is either poorly positioned or it is non-existent. This intersection is called a protected intersection because it protects both bikes and pedestrians while moving auto traffic. The cycle paths are separated making it almost impossible for a right hook or any kind of car-bike incident to occur. Pedestrians have refuges in the crossings so that they don't have to worry about not crossing the road. If the light changes before they finish crossing, they simply wait at a refuge for the next cycle. This allows for optimized signal cycles and pedestrian safety. Cars are also protected. When a car gets stuck in an intersection in the US, the driver is often put in a difficult situation: rejoin traffic or continue through. There are refuge areas for drivers who cannot complete their left and right turns. Just like a pedestrian, they can comfortably wait for the next cycle. For more on protected intersections, see the Northeastern blog, **See Stop #4 Note**
Do protected intersections provide additional safety for people walking? Please elaborate. Be careful not to "oversell" the concept, The potential for a right hook exists if someone runs a red light or takes a right turn on red. Have you seen an allowable right turn on red? was the signal truly optimized for pedestrian safety, did it provide enough time? Good observations.
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