REPORT TO BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT
Title
Trial Runs of New Bike and Pedestrian Infrastructure (Shariat)
Report
BACKGROUND
In July 2023, resident Jane Casamajor requested that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) investigate the possibility of conducting a trial run of any new bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure as part of the approval process (Attachment 1).
Former BPAC Member Casamajor was interested in the type of project referred to as quick build. Quick build is a method of building bike and pedestrian safety improvements that can be temporary and built at a lower cost such as bike lanes, curb extensions, pedestrian crossings, or traffic calming measures. These projects are implemented to respond quickly to safety concerns or to conduct a pilot project to test out a bicycle or pedestrian design concept. These pilot projects can then be evaluated on their performance through feedback and collection of real-world traffic data. Based on the findings, design concepts can then be modified before more permanent infrastructure is installed. However, these quick build projects can also remain indefinitely, without the need to install more permanent infrastructure.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Clara has completed quick build projects in the past to address safety concerns raised by the community. In 2023, the City installed quick build plastic vertical delineators on portions of Monroe Street generally between South Drive/Marmon Court and San Juan Avenue to address safety concerns related to speeding and the existing roadway curve near Francis Avenue.
In addition, a portion of the Lafayette Street Class IV Bikeway and Pavement Rehabilitation Project (located between Laurelwood and Reed Street) is being completed as a pilot project. This project was brought to the BPAC for review and discussion in January 2023. The project calls for on-street parking removal on the west side of Lafayette Street between Memorex Drive...
Click here for full text