2010 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN

The City adopted its first Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan in 2010. The 2010 Plan sought to expand the transportation options available in the community and led to many improvements to the bicycle and pedestrian network. Since adoption of the 2010 Plan, the City has constructed nearly 10 miles of bicycle lanes and over 7 miles of off-street shared use paths. It has also designated over 2 miles of bicycle routes. Additional miles of shared use paths and bicycle lanes are also programmed for construction.

Other improvements since 2010 include the installation of several Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFBs) and Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (HAWK signals) citywide, which have improved crossing conditions at several intersections and mid-block crossings. The City also added a Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator and established the Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Team (BPIT), a technical committee that oversees bicycle- and pedestrianrelated projects and ensures the coordination of these projects across city government and community organizations. The City was also designated as a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community in 2012, 2016, and 2020.

Additionally, several Comprehensive Plan elements have been adopted, including the State Street Corridor Plan, the Columbus Central Neighborhood Plan, and the Downtown Strategic Development Plan Update. These plans continued the emphasis of bicycle and pedestrian travel and add additional detail to their respective study areas. The City of Columbus Thoroughfare Plan, a complete streets policy, was also adopted as an element of the Comprehensive Plan.

This Plan update revises the 2010 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. It provides an updated strategy for developing a safe and convenient network and reflects the latest designs and research from the bicycle and pedestrian field.

The priorities of this plan are to continue the growth of the existing network by implementing facilities for people of all ages and abilities; identifying needed connections to neighborhoods, schools, parks, and other key destinations; and planning for the future growth of the City.

Benefits Of Walking And Bicycling

Health Benefits

Bicycling and walking help to keep children and adults active and helps to decrease the prevalence of health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Economic Benefits

Increases in property values, local spending, and tourism activity provide additional tax revenue for local governments, providing strong returns on investment for bicycle and pedestrian projects.

Safety Benefits

Traffic fatality rates tend to be less in regions with higher rates of walking and bicycling. Additional bicycle and walking facilities, well designed crossings, and continued education and enforcement efforts can reduce the risk of crashes and injuries.

Environmental Benefits

Walking and bicycling are more environmentally friendly modes of travel. Replacing driving trips with walking or bicycling can contribute to lower vehicular emissions which helps the environment and people with respiratory diseases.

Social Equity Benefits

Walking and bicycling are the most affordable forms of transportation. Much of the population is unable to drive including children, some individuals with disabilities, some seniors, and those unable to afford the cost of owning and operating a vehicle.

Quality Of Life Benefits

Facilities like trails, greenways, and safe places to bike and walk attract tourists and new businesses. Creating communities where walking and bicycling are accepted and encouraged increases a community’s livability in ways that benefit all residents.