REPORT TO BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT
Title
Closing Bike Lanes, Trails, and Sidewalks (Garcia)
Report
BACKGROUND
In July 2024, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) Member Megas requested that BPAC discuss the procedure for closing sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails during various activities/events and how they are communicated to contractors and to the public (Attachment 1).
DISCUSSION
California Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices: The City utilizes the California Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD) when reviewing proposed roadway and/or trail closures. The CA MUTCD is issued by the California Department of Transportation to provide uniform standards and specifications for all official traffic control devices in California, in accordance with California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21400 and 21401. The City follows the CA MUTCD standards including Part 6, Temporary Traffic Control, which specifies standards for temporary traffic control around construction zones. The latest version of the CA MUTCD notes the following as guidance in Chapter 6F "Temporary Traffic Control Zone Signs":
Guidance:
Neither portable nor permanent sign supports should be located on sidewalks, bicycle facilities, or areas designated for pedestrians or bicyclists. Sign supports should be located to accommodate bicyclists in areas designated for their use. A minimum lateral width of 4 feet should be maintained for pedestrian pathways.
Roadway Closures: If construction blocks a bicycle lane, the CA MUTCD requires that traffic control includes signage or devices to accommodate bicycle travel.
If construction does not block a bicycle lane, staff reviews plans and permit applications to ensure traffic cones and signs do not block bicycle lanes. In early 2020, staff implemented new operating procedures to check plans and permits to ensure signs do not obstruct bicycle lanes or sidewalks. The City has the following requirement for traffic contro...
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