There’s been a lot of good discussion here in Christchurch about developing separated bikeways, but we’re not the only ones in New Zealand looking seriously at the issue. I’ve already mentioned previously what Auckland are planning to do soon. Meanwhile Dunedin have also been talking a lot about the topic, particularly since a high-profile cycling fatality late last year.
Local Spokes Dunedin stalwart and Injury Prevention Professor Hank Weiss has produced a wonderful article summarising the details and merits of separated bikeways (or “cycle tracks” as they’re commonly referred to in many places). He draws on the growing research and design work looking at these types of facilities, particularly in North America where there has been quite a renaissance for separated bikeways in the past few years.
Enough from me – have a read and add all the useful information to your memory banks!
all for the proposed cycle routes and paying my share of taxes to get us where we need to be,, havent heard much discussion on making Brougham street safer? I cycle from Spreydon, turning onto Brougham at the Selywn set of lights and you (cyclists) do feel bottom of the food chain around motorists. There could be separate cycle paths on both sides of Brougham? startling at the southern motorway end right into Opawa Woolston area.
Hi Peter, I tend to agree that there are opportunities to improve cycling along Brougham St; there already is a cycle path from Opawa to Wilsons Rd, but it is not very well designed; basically just a signed footpath. Because it is a State Highway, NZTA are the ones responsible for looking after this corridor (not CCC); historically their track record on cycleways in Chch hasn’t been great…
At busy intersections, where there is sufficient cyclists, there should be a light change just for bikes, then cars to follow. Like they do in Auckland with Pedestrians crossing while traffic is stationary.
The council could trial this idea at various hotspots around the city and guage success/failure of allowing cyclists to go at light first. Adding to congestion with longer delays would need to be mitigated