MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
To: Interested Parties
From: Daniel F. Beagan, Director, Bureau of Transportation Planning and Development
Date: October 20, 1997
Subject: Review of Draft State Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plans
Thank you for your continued interest in the State Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plans. These plans are now available for review at all 13 Regional Planning Agency (RPA) offices, and the State Transportation Building Library (2nd floor, 10 Park Plaza, Boston 02116, (617) 973-8000). The locations and telephone numbers for the RPAs are listed below. Please contact them for hours of operation and travel directions.
Written comments must be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 26, 1997. Your written comments can be submitted in the following ways:
For the Bicycle Plan: Contact Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB)
Fax: (617) 924-2286
Mail: VHB, 101 Walnut Street, PO BOX 9151, Watertown, MA 02272
E-mail: bikeplan@vhb.com
Attention all of the above to P. Smith
For the Pedestrian Plan: Contact Wallace Floyd Associates Inc. (WFA)
Fax: (617) 423-1094
Mail: WFA, 286 Congress Street, 4th floor, Boston, MA 02210
E-mail: pedplan@wfa.com
Attention all of the above to J. Purdy
Regional Planning Agency (RPA) Locations/Telephones
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC)
33 Dunham Mall, Pittsfield, MA 01201, (413) 442-1521
Cape Cod Commission(CCC)
3225 Main Street, Barnstable, MA 02630, (508) 362-3828
Central Mass Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC)
20 Washington Square, Suite 300, Worcester, MA 01604-4013, (508)756-7717
Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG)
Court House, 425 Main Street, Greenfield, MA 01301, (413) 774-1193
Martha's Vineyard Commission (MVC)
PO BOX 1447, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557, (508) 693-3453
Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC)
160 Main Street, Haverhill, MA 01830, (508) 374-0519
Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC)
1427 Water Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420, (508) 345-7376
Nantucket Planning and Economic Development Commission (NPEDC)
One East Chestnut Street, Nantucket, MA 02554, (508) 228-7233
Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG)
Gallagher Terminal, Floor 3B, 115 Thorndike Street, Lowell, MA 01852, (508) 454-8021
Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC)
70 School Street, Brockton, MA 02401, (508) 583-1833
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC)
26 Central Street, West Springfield, MA 01089, (413) 781-6045
Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD)
88 Broadway, Taunton, MA 02780, (508) 824-1367
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Implementation
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. The Statewide Bicycle 1a. Address and recommend DEM, MassHighway
Transportation Plan is part of the implementation measures through the
evolving process to plan for better Massachusetts Bicycle Advisory Board.
bicycling and walking conditions The Board, which has a legislative
locally, regionally and statewide in charge to "advise the departments on
Massachusetts. Implementation of this matters relative to bicycle
plan will build upon efforts to date transportation," can, with public and
in improving bicycling conditions. agency input, recommend implementation MassHighway, BTP&D, BayState Roads
measures. Program
1b. Continue to provide
state-of-the-practice information to
state, regional and local agencies.
Continue to incorporate current bicycle
material in the MassHighway Design
Manual as appropriate. Continue to
develop and distribute material to
update the MassHighway publication
"Building Better Bicycling: A Manual
for Improving Community Bicycling
Conditions." Bicycle transportation
engineering, education, enforcement and
encouragement practice has continued to
change since then. As the Bicycle Plan
process has indicated, the RPAs,
Commonwealth communities and others
seek current technical information on:
AASHTO and MassHighway bicycle facility
design guidance; applicable MUTCD Affected agencies
material; methodologies for assessing
bicycle demand and usage; methodologies
for evaluating roadways and paths;
other measures to promote bicycle use,
such as mapping and parking; initiating
and funding bicycle projects; regional
and local bicycle transportation plans
and advisory committees; listings of
resources; and other practical topics.
1c. Coordinate Bicycle Plan
implementation with Pedestrian Plan
implementation, and with other
initiatives as applicable.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Assessing Bicycle Accommodation on Roadways
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. The existing roadway system is 1a. Continue to study traffic flow, BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
central to establishing a roadway cross section, and other
comprehensive network of bicycle characteristics that affect bicycle
facilities. A methodology to evaluate travel within existing roadway
the accommodation of bicycles on corridors. BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
existing roadways is a useful step in
identifying opportunities to improve 1b. Continue to identify agencies that
bicycle travel. Traffic flow and use these traffic and roadway data for BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
roadway cross section characteristics planning and engineering applications.
are key indicators of how well a
roadway accommodates bicycles. A 1c. Continue to coordinate existing
comprehensive data collection program data collection and management BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
coupled with a Geographic Information activities to meet the needs of the
System (GIS) are useful in applying methodology developed as part of this
the methodology developed as part of Plan. BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
this plan.
1d. Continue to compile existing data
in database format (inventory file) BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
that meets the needs of all involved
agencies.
1e. Tie this database to the
Commonwealth's existing Geographic
Information System (GIS).
1f. Support a long-term roadway data
collection and management program that
meets the bicycle program needs of
state, regional and local agencies.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Assessing Bicycle Accommodation on Roadways (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
2. It is important to identify 2a. Evaluate bicycle accommodation on BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
roadways that do not currently roadways in important travel corridors
accommodate bicycling well and then as part of the ongoing transportation
evaluate treatments to better planning process. BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
accommodate bicycle travel on these
roadways. A methodology to rate 2b. Identify roadway segments with
bicycle accommodation on roadways is a lower bicycle accommodation ratings in
useful step in identifying corridors of existing and potential BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
opportunities to improve bicycle higher demand for bicycling.
travel.
2c. Identify roadway improvements and
other measures to address the needs
identified in 2. Improve conditions
for bicycling within these travel BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
corridors, using state-of-the-practice
design. Where built improvements are
not feasible, explore and utilize other BTP&D, MDC, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
improvement options.
2d. Prioritize projects and implement
in conjunction with on-going
construction program.
2e. Continue to monitor developments in
the evolving field of assessing bicycle
accommodation. Access federal, state
and other research and apply as
applicable to Massachusetts conditions.
Conduct additional research as
warranted. Provide technical transfer
services to regions, localities and
others with need to know.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Path Development
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. This plan provides a basic overview In order to have a full understanding
of the status of bicycle path of potential trail corridors available
development in Massachusetts and in the Massachusetts, two courses of
explores potential opportunities for action are recommended.
developing a more extensive network of EOTC, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs, DEM
publicly owned bicycle paths across 1a. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
the state. However, the Commonwealth should continue its efforts in
does not have an up-to-date assessment conducting a complete statewide
of abandoned rail and other potential assessment of abandoned rail and other
corridors or a statewide trails plan. potential corridors. This study would
Without this information, it is consist of a detailed inventory,
difficult to weigh the full benefits including map, of abandoned rail
of individual path development corridors and a thorough physical
projects. examination to assess the integrity of
each corridor (e.g., does the corridor
remain intact or has development
encroached on the corridor).
Assessments previously conducted by
DEM, CTPS, MAPC, and others would be
incorporated. The statewide inventory
should also address corridor ownership.
A more extensive picture of the
potential resources available for DEM, MDC, MWRA, RPAs/MPOs, cities and
development of bicycle paths is the end towns
result. The information that a
statewide corridor assessment will
provide can help determine where
important missing links in a statewide
network of bicycle paths exist and
where the state may want to focus
financial resources for development.
1b. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
should prepare a State Trails Plan.
This plan will include an evaluation of
corridors within the state that can
serve as paths including river,
aqueduct, railroad, canal and utility
rights-of-way. This plan is another
resource that will identify potential
bicycle paths.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Path Development (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
2. Additional railroad corridors may 2a. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts EOTC, DEM, RPAs, local government
become available for acquisition and should continue to work to successfully agencies, RTAs, MDC.
development as bicycle paths. obtain railroad corridors that are
proposed for abandonment approval from
the Surface Transportation Board
(formerly known as the Interstate
Commerce Commission), the federal
agency that regulates Class 1
railroads.
2b. Massachusetts General Law (Chapter
161C) passed in 1973 authorizes the
Commonwealth to acquire active and
abandoned railroad corridors and
requires that any railroad company
intending to sell or dispose of a EOTC, DEM, RPAs, local government
railroad corridor offer it for sale to agencies, RTAs, MDC.
the state before it is offered to the
public. The Commonwealth should
continue to act upon such offers when
the corridor has the potential to
become part of a statewide network of
bicycle paths. Identify available
financial resources to facilitate such
purchases.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Path Development (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
3. Massachusetts has in place an 3. The Commonwealth should continue to EOTC
effective mechanism intended to apply this general law to preserve the
preserve abandoned railroad corridors physical integrity of abandoned
that are not railbanked. railroad corridors that have the
Massachusetts General Law (Chapter 40, potential to become part of a network
Section 54A) passed in 1975 provides of publicly owned bicycle paths.
that no local building permit can be
issued for a structure to be built on
land formerly used for a railroad
corridor without a public hearing and
permission of the Secretary of
Transportation
4. In order to take advantage of the 4. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts EOTC, EOEA
opportunities available for rail-trail should take the lead in developing and
development, the issue of a trail distributing guidelines that clearly
delivery system needs to be addressed. identify state, regional and local
Who will own these corridors, where roles in the development, operation and
will the funding for rail-trail maintenance of bicycle path facilities.
development come from, who will build
the trail and who will mange the
facility? These questions need to be
answered so that as railroad corridors
become available, an organizational
structure is in place to convert them
into multi-use trails
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Land Use
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Land use planning is accomplished 1a. Review state and federal land use EOEA-Conservation Services and MEPA
under a variety of programs, including planning programs with the objective of Unit, DHCD,
facility and property reuse plans, improving their support for bicyclists. GSA, RPAs/MPOs, cities and towns
disposition plans, regional plans, (For example, the Massachusetts
local master plans, local facility Division of Conservation Services might
system plans, and targeted local area add language in their "Open Space
plans. Local area plans include those Planners Workbook" that recognizes EOEA-Conservation Services and MEPA
addressing open space and recreation, bicycling and bicycle facilities.) Unit, DHCD, GSA, RPAs/MPOs, cities and
economic and community development towns.
districts, enterprise zones and 1b. Encourage local governments to
downtown revitalization programs. In undertake such a review relative to
addition, land use planning proposals their land use planning laws, programs EOEA-Conservation Services and MEPA
are frequently included in federal, and actions. Unit, DHCD, GSA, RPAs/MPOs, cities and
state and locally mandated towns.
environmental review processes. All 1c. Prepare literature on how land use
the above programs include planning can positively influence
requirements, guidelines, and "best bicycle facility planning. Incorporate EOEA-Conservation Services and MEPA
practice" procedures. Some include in related literature as appropriate. Unit, DHCD, GSA, RPAs/MPOs, cities and
mention of bicycles and bicycle towns.
facilities, while others do not. All 1d. Distribute the literature through
appropriate programs that deal with existing state agencies and
land use planning should be reviewed associations such as the Massachusetts
with the goal of giving proper Municipal Association, the
recognition to bicycle facility issues Massachusetts Federation of Planning
and needs. Consideration should be and Appeals Boards, the Massachusetts
given to introducing or amending Planning Directors Association, and
specific provisions that recognize the regional planning agencies. Notices
role of bicycles in supporting land and articles can be incorporated in the
use, transportation, economic regular publications of these
development, energy savings, health organizations as well.
and fitness, and recreation
objectives.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Land Use (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
2. Transportation Management 2a. Find successful examples where EOTC, BTP&D, RPAs/NPOs, CARAVAN, TMAs
Associations (TMAs) and other business bicycle facilities have been installed
partnerships that deal with in downtowns and other commercial areas
transportation are increasing in and office and industrial parks.
numbers in Massachusetts. These Publicize these examples through
voluntary partnerships of businesses appropriate media. DHCD
have considerable resources and can
often tap public as well as private 2b. Distribute the literature to
funds to undertake programs with broad existing TMAs and business partnerships
benefits to members and the public. in Massachusetts. Follow up this
TMAs are created to deal with distribution with an offer to send RPAs/MPOs, TMAs
transportation problems. Business materials to interested heads of TMAs
partnerships are created to deal with and business partnerships.
a number of issues that often include
transportation. TMAs have created bus 2c. Contact and work with public
services, parking and access roads. officials that have programs that TMA
Business partnerships have created and business partnerships use, e.g.,
parking and access improvements. Both STP highway and CMAQ transit matching
types of organization have the fund programs and downtown EOTC/BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs, and TMAs
potential to create bicycle revitalization and economic development
facilities. For example a system of programs. Primary contacts are
bicycle paths and related bicycle EOTC/BTP&D, Mass. Department of Housing
parking facilities could be created in and Community Development, and Mass.
an industrial or office park or area. Office of Business Development.
Bicycle racks could be installed in
various strategic locations in 2d. Present the material at various
downtown or commercial areas through regular meetings of TMA and business
the efforts of business partnerships. partnership officials, and continue a
Two advantages these organizations program of public education, focused on
offer is that they have ready access how business partnerships and TMAs can
to business funding, which can be promote the creation of bicycle
substantial in the case of large facilities, and the benefits of these
corporations, and they are led by facilities for the businesses and their
business leaders, who are often very employees.
influential in their communities.
Bicycle facilities, because they are
relatively low in cost, and are
relatively visible and attractive, may
have a special appeal to business
leaders as progressive, effective and
responsible investments.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Zoning
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Land use development is controlled 1a. Prepare model zoning and EOEA, RPAs/MPOs, DHCD
most firmly at the local level. subdivision provisions which require
Zoning and other land use controls appropriate bicycle features in
such as subdivision regulation are suitable projects (such as bicycle
enforced by local officials, racks at retail stores), and which
frequently involving extensive review provide the opportunity to negotiate
of projects. Under zoning, the review for additional bicycle facilities (such
process is becoming even more as lockers, showers and clothes
extensive. For example, site plan changing rooms at office parks, and
review and special permit requirements bicycle paths at industrial parks).
allow for a negotiation process which Negotiation incentives could include
could include bicycle facilities where such items as increased allowable EOEA, RPAs/MPOs, DHCD
appropriate. Bicycle parking densities, or reduced dimensional
facilities could also be required requirements such as road frontage or
under general parking provisions for building setbacks and heights.
any appropriate land use such as
commercial and industrial 1b. Package model provisions in EOEA, RPAs/MPOs, DHCD
developments. More extensive engaging materials and formats and
facilities, such as lockers, showers, distribute to local and regional
and changing rooms, can be negotiated officials throughout the state. Use
for a project, as can paths or lanes both direct mailing and mailings to
for bicycles as part of proposed associations of local and regional
developments under review. officials. EOEA, RPAs/MPOs, DHCD
Subdivision regulations and other
non-zoning land use controls can also 1c. Convene a conference of local and
include provisions requiring bicycle regional planning, zoning and
facilities, along with design subdivision review officials, and
standards for these facilities. Model provide examples of successful bicycle
bylaws can be drawn from current facility improvements created through
experience for the purpose of local zoning, subdivision and other
facilitating the process for regulations.
municipalities wishing to enact
pro-bicycle regulations. 1d. Continue a program of public
education, focused on how local
government can require and promote the
creation of bicycle facilities.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Environmental Reviews
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Environmental reviews provide an 1a. Draft model provisions that would EOEA, MEPA Unit, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs,
opportunity to introduce or enlarge deal with vehicle reduction and extent DHCD, Mass. Municipal Association.
the role of bicycle transportation of paved areas, as well as types of
into proposed projects. Environmental bicycle facilities and features to
reviews are required for federally encourage bicycle use, that would be
funded projects, and all state required or recommended. EOEA, MEPA Unit, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs,
projects over given sizes. DHCD, Mass. Municipal Association.
Furthermore, some cities and towns 1b. Distribute these model provisions
require environmental reviews of to cities and towns along with EOEA, MEPA Unit, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs,
proposed projects in their ordinances literature to encourage their adoption. DHCD, Mass. Municipal Association.
and bylaws. Federal and state
guidelines for conducting 1c. Work with state MEPA officials to EOEA, MEPA Unit, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs,
environmental reviews mention incorporate appropriate revisions to DHCD, Mass. Municipal Association.
bicycles. Some local statutes also their guidelines and requirements.
mention bicycles as elements that
should be considered in environmental 1d. Publicize the need, opportunity, EOEA, MEPA Unit, BTP&D, RPAs/MPOs,
reviews. and means to improve local DHCD, Mass. Municipal Association.
environmental review through
While mention of bicycles and related appropriate city and town-oriented
facilities is sufficient to initiate publications.
discussion for any given project, the
guidelines and requirements for 1e. Hold a series of conferences around
environmental reviews are often not the state, jointly sponsored by RPAs,
sufficiently detailed to explain how BTP&D, MEPA and MDHCD to cover
bicycles can make specific improvements to the state and local
contributions to environmental environmental review processes and
objectives, such as reducing vehicle their results.
miles of travel and amounts of
pavement needed, and providing
features to ease or encourage bicycle
use. It would add to the
effectiveness of such provisions if
monitoring and enforcement procedures
were included. There is a need and
opportunity to introduce such detailed
provisions in both state (MEPA)
requirements and guidelines, and local
laws. These provisions would list
specific features or facilities that
should be included in a project, and
would outline ways project monitoring
would occur to insure that objectives
were met.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicyclist Education
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. A variety of curriculums and 1a. Implement a comprehensive, DOE, MDPH, GHSB Community Traffic
approaches are being used to educate statewide school-based bicycle safety Safety Programs (CTSPs), PTA/Os, local
children in the Commonwealth about education program for children. A health departments and prevention
bicycle safety and the importance of bicycle safety education program centers, hospitals, Health Maintenance
helmet use. They include school integrated into school health and/or Organizations (HMOs), police
assemblies, videos, bicycle rodeos, physical education curriculums has the departments.
public service announcements (PSAs), greatest potential for reaching all
helmet promotion programs, and various Massachusetts children. For maximum
safety materials such as posters and effectiveness, the program should
fliers. There is a need for a more include on-bicycle as well as classroom
consistent and comprehensive instruction. It would be part of a
educational effort, reaching a greater comprehensive traffic safety education
number of children. There is also a program that would begin in the primary
need to educate teenage and adult grades with school bus and pedestrian
bicyclists. These education efforts safety and progress through bicycle
should focus on following the rules of safety education for older elementary
the road when riding in traffic, being and middle school students to driver's
visible, and using appropriate safety education for teenagers.
equipment, including helmets.
1b. Develop and evaluate a model GHSB, CTSPs, PTAs, police departments,
program for adult bicyclist safety bicycle organizations, service
training and education. A variety of organizations, others
efforts will likely be needed to reach
adult bicyclists. Possible approaches
include distribution of safety
materials at bicycle shops, "bicycle to
work" and "family bicycle ride" events
that also provide opportunities for
education, inclusion of bicycle safety
messages on local bicycle maps,
articles or letters to local
newspapers, involvement of local
bicycle clubs, etc. Local law
enforcement officers can also play a
role in educating (and motivating)
adult bicyclists. A bicyclist
education campaign directed at adults
would be tied to a larger motorist
education and public awareness
campaign, as well as to greater
enforcement of traffic laws for
bicyclists and motorists. Develop and
evaluate the effectiveness of a model
program at the local level for
improving the skills and riding
practices of adult bicyclists.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Motorist Education
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is a need to educate 1a. Develop a "Share the Road" campaign BTP&D, GHSB, MBSA, RMV, public and
motorists in ways to effectively and to increase motorist and bicyclist private sector organizations
safely share the road with bicyclists education. Such a campaign could be
started at the state level and then
extended to communities. PSAs,
brochures, billboards and a variety of
other media could be used to carry out
the campaign. This could be centrally
organized by the Massachusetts Bicycle
Safety Alliance (MBSA) so that many
state and local agencies and coalitions BTP&D, GHSB, MBSA, RMV, public and
could join. Media support would be private sector organizations
needed, and use of incentives should be
considered.
1b. Educate motorists through the
driver license process and driver
training programs. Another method of
reaching motorists is through
information contained in driver's
license manuals and through
incorporating bicycle safety and
"share-the-road" messages into
statewide driver education training.
Both the manual and the training should
include questions relating to bicycling
as well as more specific information on
operating a motor vehicle on roadways
where bicyclists are present. Reminders
in the form of posters or brochures can
also be placed in the information
centers at RMV offices. Materials
could be included with any mailings
from the RMV.
1c. Enforce traffic laws, targeting Police departments
those which improve motorist/bicyclist
interaction. Enforcement of traffic
laws will lead to greater understanding
of the laws by motorists and
bicyclists.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Helmet Use
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Even though the Massachusetts 1a. Continue to promote public GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, DOE, and others.
bicycle helmet law for children ages awareness and acceptance of the current
12 and under has had widespread statewide helmet use law. When the
positive impact, some parents and initial helmet law was passed, little
children remain unaware of the law, funding was made available for
thus reducing its overall promoting public awareness and
effectiveness in preventing deaths and acceptance of the law. Despite limited
reducing head injuries from bicycle funds, GHSB, the Massachusetts
crashes. There is a need for continued Department of Public Health, and the
and expanded education for children as Massachusetts Bicycle Safety Alliance
well as their parents about the have all led active campaigns to
state's bicycle helmet law. In promote helmet use and make helmets
addition, there is a need to continue more available and affordable to
to promote helmet use among bicyclists children. These efforts will need to be
of all ages. continued and even expanded in the
future, as many children still are not
wearing helmets. Educating parents GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, DOE, and others.
about the importance of their child
always wearing a helmet when bicycling
should be a key component to the
campaign. Pediatricians and other
medical professionals can assist in the
effort.
1b. Promote helmet use among bicyclists
of all ages. The majority of
bicyclists injured and killed in
traffic collisions are teenagers or
adults, and helmets can protect these
riders as well. Efforts to promote the
voluntary use of helmets by bicyclists
not currently covered by the statewide
helmet law should be expanded. This
might include, for example, developing
posters and fliers that target adult
riders, working with colleges and
universities to promote helmet use
among students as well as staff and
faculty, and working with bicycle shops
to make available a greater variety of
low-cost helmets.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Enforcement
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is a need for enforcement of 1a. Provide training to law enforcement GHSB, MDPH, State Police; local police
rules-of-the-road when bicycles and officers. State and local law departments and other agencies.
motor vehicles are operating on the enforcement agencies should be
same or intersecting roadways and encouraged to incorporate bicycle
other facilities. Bicycle enforcement enforcement into their training and
pertains not only to the education programs. Programs should
rules-of-the-road movements made by address the rights and responsibilities
bicyclists, but also to the way of both bicyclists and motorists as
motorists share the road with road users, along with effective
bicyclists. Helmet use by child approaches for bicycle law enforcement.
bicyclists is another enforcement Training videos such as the helmet
issue. The vast majority of bicycle video produced by the Newton Police
law enforcement is done at the local Department (with GHSB funding) or the GHSB, MDPH, State Police; local police
level and requires commitment by League of American Bicyclist's "The Law departments and other agencies.
community law enforcement officers. is for All" video can help to educate
There is a need for educating law as well as motivate law enforcement
enforcement authorities, including officers.
State Police, about the need for
bicycle law enforcement as well as the 1b. Educate bicyclists about their GHSB, MDPH, State Police; local police
rights of bicyclists using roadways. responsibilities. Along with departments and other agencies.
education, law enforcement can also
play an important role in educating
bicyclists about their responsibilities
as road users. Bicyclists need to feel
that it is important for them to obey
traffic laws.
1c. Review current status of
Massachusetts General Laws pertaining
to bicycling. If needed, recommend
changes in the statutes to make them
easier and more compelling to enforce.
Develop information sheets that
summarize and clarify the law for
motorists and bicyclists as well as law
enforcement officers.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Enforcement (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is a need for enforcement of 1d. Promote police-on-bicycles GHSB, MDPH, State Police; local police
rules-of-the-road when bicycles and programs. The concept of departments and planning agencies.
motor vehicles are operating on the police-on-bicycles is growing in
same or intersecting roadways and popularity in Massachusetts. More
other facilities. Bicycle enforcement communities have established police
pertains not only to the bicycle units. The Massachusetts State
rules-of-the-road movements made by Police have police officers on
bicyclists, but also to the way bicycles, as does every town on Cape
motorists share the road with Cod. Police-on-bicycles can be a very
bicyclists. Helmet use by child effective way to enforce GHSB, MDPH, State Police; local police
bicyclists is another enforcement rules-of-the-road for both bicyclists departments and planning agencies.
issue. The vast majority of bicycle and motorists. They may also help to
law enforcement is done at the local support community policing activities.
level and requires commitment by
community law enforcement officers. 1e. Involve local police whenever
There is a need for educating law bicycle facility planning is being done
enforcement authorities, including within a community. Local officers tend
State Police, about the need for to know where bicycle-motor vehicle
bicycle law enforcement as well as the crashes occur and the underlying
rights of bicyclists using roadways. conditions, and are thus in a position
to make informed comments regarding
facilities. Involving local police in
bicycle facility planning can also help
educate and motivate the officers
concerning bicyclist needs and safety.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Use of Bicycle Accident and Injury Data
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Bicycle injury and bicycle-motor 1a. Strengthen statewide reporting of EOTC/BTP&D, State Police, local police,
vehicle accident data should be bicycle-motor vehicle accidents. A MDPH, RMV, and GHSB.
examined at both the state and local uniform accident report form is used
levels to identify needs and help statewide. Although there is known
guide countermeasure and program underreporting of single vehicle
development. The data may also be used bicycle accidents, this is true in
for program evaluation. every state. Make periodic contact
with police agencies to maintain EOTC/BTP&D, State Police, local police,
consistency of bicycle accident MDPH, RMV, and GHSB.
reporting.
1b. Track bicycle-motor vehicle
accidents. Provide MHD
Bicycle-Pedestrian Program staff with
annual summaries of bicycle accident
soccurring in the state and examine the
data to detect trends, new problems, EOTC/BTP&D, State Police, local police,
and possible countermeasures. Apply the MDPH, RMV, and GHSB.
same process to certain local
jurisdictions where there is
considerable bicycling. Encourage
local agencies to use accident typing
techniques to further enrich the data.
1c. Supplement accident data with
hospital injury data. Highway
departments generally rely on
police-reported motor vehicle accident
data for information on roadway safety.
However, a majority of bicyclists'
injuries result from falls or other
non-collisions that do not involve a
motor vehicle. To better understand the
safety needs of these bicyclists,
examine hospital discharge data and
track them along with the statewide
accident data. Hospital data can also
be used to evaluate the effectiveness
of state and local safety and helmet
promotion activities.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Use of Bicycle Accident and Injury Data (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Bicycle injury and bicycle-motor 1d. Implement GIS techniques as BTP&D, State Police, local police,
vehicle accident data should be appropriate, to track bicycle accident MDPH, RMV, and GHSB.
examined at both the state and local locations and injury severity.
levels to identify needs and help
guide countermeasure and program 1e. Provide training related to BTP&D, State Police, local police,
development. The data may also be used accident reconstruction and typology. MDPH, RMV, and GHSB.
for program evaluation.
.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicyclist Safety: Communication and Networking
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Currently many agencies are engaged 1a. Update and widely disseminate the GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, and EOTC/BTP&D
in bicycle safety education and Bicycle Safety Resource Kit developed
enforcement activities in by MDPH. The update should include the
Massachusetts. They include the latest information on key agencies,
Governor's Highway Safety Bureau, organizations, and individuals engaged
Massachusetts Department of Public in bicycle safety activities, and be
Health / Injury Prevention and Control made available "on-line" so that it can
Program, the Bicycle Safety Alliance, be easily modified and expanded. GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, and EOTC/BTP&D
and a variety of local agencies and
programs. There is clearly a need to 1b. Establish an on-line user group for
facilitate timely communication and quick and easy sharing of bicycle
sharing among these various groups, to safety information. GHSB is developing
benefit from each other's experiences a Web site that will include bicycle
and expertise as well as to pool safety information. The user group
resources and talents. The Bicycle might be modeled after the Bicycle
Safety Alliance has fulfilled this Coalition of Massachusetts' on-line
role in the past, but additional group, and used for (a) describing new
resources may be needed to expand its programs, activities or materials, (b)
activities. announcing upcoming meetings, GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, and EOTC/BTP&D
conferences, or other events of
interest, (c) providing updates on
pertinent legislation, (d) posing
questions for others in the group to
answer, (e) identifying funding
opportunities, (f) seeking
collaborators.
1c. Host an annual bicycle safety
conference to facilitate networking and
sharing of ideas and programs.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicyclist Safety: Program Coordination and Leadership
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is no single focal point for 1. Several approaches can be taken to Massachusetts General Court, Governor's
bicycle safety education and improve overall program coordination Office, GHSB, MDPH, MBSA, and BTP&D
enforcement activities in the state, and leadership. One approach is to
nor an individual advocate at the formalize and expand the role already
state level responsible solely for being played by the Massachusetts
bicycle safety. At both the Governor's Bicycle Safety Alliance. The Alliance
Highway Safety Bureau (GHSB) and the could have a paid director able to work
Massachusetts Department of Public full-time on bicycle safety issues.
Health (MDPH), bicycle safety is one This person would be responsible for
of many other program areas. There is coordinating bicycle safety activities
a need for a more defined focus to the by the Governor's Highway Safety
state's bicycle safety activities, Bureau, Department of Public Health,
with leadership that can provide and others, and would provide overall
longevity and continuity to its many leadership, direction, and continuity
bicycle safety programs. to the program.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Facility Design
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is a need for uniform 1a. Continue to recognize the Guide for MassHighway/BTP&D and other state and
guidance in the design of bicycle the Development of Bicycle Facilities local agencies
facilities. (AASHTO, 1991) as "the primary design
reference for designing bikeways".
This document is in the process of
being revised. When the new Guide is
available, obtain copies and distribute
to all town/city engineers and public
works departments, as was done with the
1991 Guide.
1b. Continue to incorporate bicycle BTP&D
facility design guidance, into the
MassHighway Design Manual,.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Facility Design (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
2. Most actuated traffic signal 2. MassHighway and others should adopt MassHighway/BTP&D, MDC, cities, towns,
systems in the Commonwealth do not standards for the detection of bicycles and other appropriate agencies
detect bicycles. When no motor by actuated traffic signal systems.
vehicles are present at a leg of an MassHighway/BTP&D, municipalities, and
intersection where a bicyclist is other agencies who own and operate
waiting, the traffic signal is not traffic signals on public ways in the
actuated. The bicyclist choices are Commonwealth.
to wait for a motor vehicle to arrive
to actuate the signal or to run the
light. This situation is inconsistent
with Massachusetts General Laws which
recognize bicycles as vehicles and
afford bicyclists the same rights as
motorists.
3. The AASHTO Guide notes that bridges 3. Provide appropriate treatments to MassHighway/BTP&D, MDC, local
can serve an important function by improve bicycle travel across bridges. Departments of Public Works, and other
providing bicycle access across Such treatments may initially include agencies with bridge
barriers. Some bridge features, signs to alert bicyclists to surface design/construction/maintenance
however, may be unsuitable for conditions. Other longer term responsibility.
bicyclists; these are, according to treatments may include: retrofitting
AASHTO, "open grated metal decks found existing bridges to improve surface
on many movable spans" and "certain conditions for bicycling; and bridge
types of expansion joints that may construction and reconstruction
cause bicycle steering difficulties." projects that incorporate surfaces more
compatible with bicycle travel,
specifically in bicycle travel paths,
and provision of greater operating
space.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Construction and Maintenance Practices
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Bicycles need to be accommodated in 1. Develop bicycle-oriented State agencies, utility companies,
construction areas. construction criteria. cities and towns, state and local
police, bicycle organizations
2. Provide appropriate signing and 2. Use wet skid-resistant pavement MassHighway, MDC, other state agencies,
striping during construction and as markings. cities, towns, and others involved in
part of ongoing maintenance. signing and striping.
3. The needs of all transporttation 3a. Continue current grate replacement State, local, and other roadway/bicycle
modes, including bicyclists, should be program to incorporate bicycle-safe path maintenance agencies.
accommodated in sweeping and drainage grates. Ensure proper cleaning of
maintenance policies and practices. catch basins to reduce the formation of
standing water and surface
irregularities.
3b. Provide proper vertical and State, local, and other roadway/bicycle
horizontal clearances. Trim vegetation path maintenance agencies.
to provide visibility of signs, sight
lines, and lateral space adjacent to
facilities.
4. Improved railroad crossings can 4. Encourage railroad and other Railroads, state and local roadway
better accommodate bicycles. personnel to consider bicycle use in agencies
design/maintenance of railroad
crossings. Provide design guidance on
railroad crossing treatments to
accommodate bicycles.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Tourism
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Bicycle tourism is a source of 1a. Continue to update, print and MOTT, RTCs, the tourism industry,
substantial revenue in several states. distribute State Bicycle Map. cities, towns, chambers of commerce,
The industry is developing in and others.
Massachusetts, and there are a few
companies which are realizing part of 1b. Develop a multipage brochure as a MOTT, RTCs, the tourism industry,
the business potential of bicycling. companion piece to the State Bicycle cities, towns, chambers of commerce,
Other businesses outside the state are Map that is oriented to the needs and and others.
also involved in bicycle tourism in interests of the bicycle tourist. The
Massachusetts. Developing a stronger brochure could include information on
bicycle tourism business within the lodging, bicycle attractions and tour
state would increase revenues realized operators in each region, and bicycling
by the Commonwealth. safety. It could also incorporate
information already available from
State tourism promotion offices in several regional tourist councils
other states have developed materials, (RTCs) on bicycling and other outdoor
programs and organizations for activities in their region.
marketing bicycling attractions Massachusetts geographically is a
throughout the state. Other states relatively small state, and different
have also developed non-profit regions can be visited during the time
organizations, sponsored by businesses period of a typical vacation. This
and other organizations, which publication could highlight the major MOTT, RTCs, the tourism industry,
promotes bicycling and tourism in the bicycling attractions in the state, cities, towns, chambers of commerce,
state. MOTT can play a prominent role without requiring a vacationer to and others.
in increasing the visibility of contact several separate RTCs for
Massachusetts as a bicycle tourism information.
destination and in capturing the
revenue that it offers. These 1c. Continue to feature bicycling in
promotion efforts could attract existing tourism promotions and
funding from bicycle shops, tour publications.
operators, lodging, and other
businesses which stand to gain from
more bicycle tourists coming to
Massachusetts.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Bicycle Promotion
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. Bicycling is a highly efficient The promotion of bicycling entails a
means of transportation, has air comprehensive program that addresses
quality benefits, and offers healthy, facility needs, safety education and
enjoyable activity for people of all law enforcement, as well as
ages. The National Bicycling and encouragement. The recommendations
Walking Study has set a goal of below relate to areas not already
doubling the percentage of trips made covered elsewhere. MassHighway, EOEA, DEP, DEM, RPAs/MPOs,
by bicycling and walking, at the same other state agencies with
time reducing by 10 percent the number 1a. Continue to work with local transportation and air quality
of bicyclists and pedestrians killed communities, businesses, academic responsibilities, CARAVAN, TMAs, Smart
and injured in traffic crashes. To institutions or other agencies and Routes, RTAs, the BayState Roads
support this goal, Massachusetts will organizations to sponsor and promote Program, cities and towns.
need to carry out its own statewide bicycle to work days, community bicycle
effort to make bicycling a more rides, and other events to attract and
attractive transportation option for encourage new bicyclists. MassHighway, EOEA, DEP, DEM, RPAs/MPOs,
more of its people. other state agencies with
1b. Continue to produce state, regional transportation and air quality
and local bicycle maps to help responsibilities, CARAVAN, TMAs, Smart
bicyclists identify suitable routes for Routes, RTAs, the BayState Roads
bicycling to desired destinations. Program, cities and towns.
MassHighway, EOEA, DEP, DEM, RPAs/MPOs,
1c. Consider developing a statewide other state agencies with
multi-media campaign promoting transportation and air quality
bicycling. This might be linked to responsibilities, CARAVAN, TMAs, Smart
other efforts, such as a Routes, RTAs, the BayState Roads
"Share-the-Road" campaign. Program, cities and towns.
1d. Encourage designation of MassHighway Districts, RPAs/MPOs,
MassHighway District, regional, and cities, and towns
local agency bicycling contacts, and
the establishment of regional and local
bicycle advisory committees.
1e. Access existing and/or develop best MassHighway, DEM, GHSB, MDPH, BayState
practices publications covering 4E Roads Program, and others
activities (education, enforcement,
encouragement, and engineering,) of
potential value and application to
state, regional, local, and other
agencies.
1f. Develop a Clean Air/Bike-to-Transit EOEA, RTAs, RPAs/MPOs, TMAs, cities and
pilot program, emphasizing reduced cold towns.
starts. Evaluate and expand as
appropriate.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Transit and Multimodal Connections
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is an opportunity to increase 1a. Assess primary roadways leading to EOTC, RTAs, all agencies who own and
both bicycle and transit use by transit stations and stops and other maintain public roads that provide
improvements in three primary areas: multimodal facilities, and where links to transit centers, Massport, and
appropriate, improve roadways to better Mass Aeronautics
bicycle access to transit stations and accommodate bicycles. Ensure that new
stops roadways leading to transit stations
bicycle parking at transit stations and other multimodal facilities are
and stops and designed to accommodate bicycles. EOTC, RTAs and all agencies that
conveyance of bicycles on transit construct, own, or maintain bikeways.
vehicles 1b. Ensure that all new bikeways and
transit centers provide connections
An increase in bicycling and transit between these facilities. Improve EOTC, RTAs, RPAs, cities and towns
use will advance broader goals of the connections between existing bikeways
Commonwealth, including improved air and transit/multimodal centers.
quality, personal mobility, and
quality of life. 1c. Provide/update inventories of
bicycle parking facilities at all
There are also opportunities to transit centers and major bus stops.
improve bicycle linkage with other Survey the numbers of bicycles parked
modes and modal centers. These modes at or near these facilities during peak
include commuter ferries and other periods of bicycle use. Assess the
maritime services, and demand for bicycle parking at these
airports/airlines. Multimodal sites facilities based on existing use data
include park and ride lots, and and an evaluation of potential demand.
existing and proposed multimodal
centers, such as South Station in
Boston.
1d. Install additional bicycle parking EOTC, RTAs, RPAs, local police, cities
facilities at transit centers and major and towns
bus stops based on demand. At transit
centers such as commuter rail and
subway stations, provide bicycle racks
in secure and convenient locations.
Bicycle lockers should be considered
especially at locations that are not
continuously populated. Large covered,
secured bicycle parking facilities may
be more appropriate where warranted.
MASSACHUSETTS STATEWIDE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
Program Area: Transit and Multimodal Connections (continued)
OPPORTUNITY/NEED RECOMMENDATION PROPOSED AGENCIES
1. There is an opportunity to increase 1e. Provide safe, secure, and adequate MassHighway, RTAs, RPAs, Massport,
bicycle use for transportation by bicycle parking facilities at Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, and
improving bicycle parking at park-and-ride lots, airports, and other others
multimodal facilities. TDM and multimodal facilities.
Enhancement funding may be applicable
to such improvements.
2. Increase security at multimodal 2. Increase monitoring of parking sites RTAs, RPAs, local police, cities and
sites. to reduce vandalism and theft. Locate towns
parking facilities to increase
surveillance.
3. There is an opportunity to increase 3a. Continue to increase the MBTA
both bicycle and transit use by convenience of transporting bicycles on
improvements in conveyance of bicycles trains as was done on October 1, 1996,
on transit vehicles. when the MBTA expanded the number of
outlets for obtaining "Bikes on the T"
permits and hours when bicycles are AMTRAK and private bus companies
allowed on trains.
3b. Encourage increased convenience of RTAs
transporting bicycles on Amtrak trains
and on private buses.
3c. Increase the number of RTA buses Ferry and other maritime operators
equipped with bicycle racks, using as a
model programs implemented by the
Nantucket RTA and the Pioneer Valley
Transit Authority.
3d. Increase the convenience of
transporting bicycles on ferries and
other maritime services
3e. Investigate potential adaptation of RTAs, other transit, and ferry
existing rolling stock and other operators
equipment to better accommodate bicycle
conveyance.
3f. Assess bicycle/transit usage on a Responsible agencies
regular basis to determine how system
improvements can be provided.