CONCERNED’ PRIORITY USER GROUP

The Bicyclist Design User Profile illustrates the different types of bicyclists and the conditions under which they feel comfortable riding. Understanding the characteristics of each user type helps to inform bicycle facility selection.

The graphic below describes the four types of bicycle users, which are widely accepted within the field of bicycle facility design. The percentages are national averages and reflect the estimated proportion of the population that falls within each category. While the exact percentages for Columbus are unknown, the feedback received during the public input process for this Plan supports these percentages and revealed that the majority of bicyclists fall within the ‘Interested but Concerned’ user type. Therefore, the ‘Interested but Concerned’ user group was identified as the priority user group for this Plan.

‘Interested but Concerned’ bicyclists have the lowest tolerance for traffic stress. This group includes families with children and less experienced bicyclists. Designing for this user group results in a bicycle network that serves bicyclists of all ages and abilities. Although this should not be the only group that facilities are designed for, the first priority should be to build facilities and establish a network that meets the needs of the priority target user.

Bicyclist Design User Profile

Comfortable riding with traffic; will use roads without bicycle lanes. Strong and Fearless 4% - 7% LOW STRESS TOLERANCE HIGH STRESS TOLERANCE

These individuals are uncomfortable bicycling in any condition, have no interest in bicycling, or are physically unable to do so.

Generally prefer more separated facilities but are comfortable riding in bicycle lanes or on paved shoulders if need be. No Way No How 28% - 40% Interested but Concerned 51% - 56% Enthused and Confident 5% - 9%

Types Of Pedestrians

A pedestrian is considered to be any person who travels from place to place on foot and/or with the assistance from a mobility device such as a wheelchair or guide dog. Pedestrian needs are diverse and should be considered in the design of pedestrian facilities. While design standards are developed to meet the needs of an ‘average’ population, they must be applied in a flexible manner which addresses the needs of different types of pedestrians. For instance, children and older adults typically travel at slower speeds requiring additional crossing time at intersections. Where these populations are more likley to cross intersections, signal timing should be adjusted or refuge islands might be offered to accommodate the slower speeds.

Although pedestrian facilities are not designed for a specific user group, it is important to understand the characteristics of each group to ensure that facilities are designed to meet the needs of each.

Types Of Pedestrians

Older Adults

Access to transit and safe routes to destinations become more important as populations age. Research shows that people over 65 walk more than any other age group. Columbus has an estimated senior population of 15%, with its aging population expected to grow steadily over the next 20 years.

Younger Pedestrians

Younger pedestrians often rely on safe walking routes to school, transit stops, and recreational facilities. Very young pedestrians get distracted easily and may dart out into traffic. Younger pedestrians (18 years and under) make up 31% of the population in Columbus.

People With Disabilities

People with disabilities need level, clearly defined easy access with carefully designed facilities that eliminate barriers and address mobility needs based on the particular disability. Many of these barriers are identified as part of the City of Columbus ADA Transitions Plan. Individuals with disabilities are generally more sensitive to maintenance issues, such as uneven pavement.

Typical

Pedestrian users include, but are not limited to, walkers, runners, roller bladers, people with strollers, and people walking their dogs. This user group includes people traveling at various speeds.