SMART Multiuse Pathway with Mode Separation: An Attempt to Limit Bicycle Accidents and Pedestrian Injuries
On Monday, July 18th, the San Rafael City Council held a Special Study Session regarding construction of a multiuse pathway alongside the proposed extension of SMART from San Rafael to Larkspur. The area in question is the right-of-way between the western edge of Highway 101 and Anderson Drive running from 2nd Street to Rice Drive, which is narrow and known as a “pinch point.” A feasibility study presented at the session clearly demonstrated there is sufficient space for a multiuse pathway. Construction of the pathway will help limit bicycle and pedestrian accidents.
Several creative solutions were presented with plans for mode-separation designed to limit bicycle and pedestrian injury. The most ambitious envisions construction of two 11’ lanes for vehicle traffic, 6’ sidewalk and 10’ bikeway with physical separation of each mode of transport.
For more information about the issue, feasibility study, and proposed designs visit: http://www.marinbike.org/news/pedestrian/smartpath/ andhttp://walkbikemarin.org/projects.php.
The period for public comment has been extended to August 10th. Comments should be directed to the Senior Project Planner of the Marin County Department of Public Works, Carey Lando: clando@marincounty.org.
The Attorneys at Strick Injury Law and Mediation understand that cyclists are uniquely vulnerable to injury in traffic related accidents, and are concerned with improving our infrastructure. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, please call us to learn more about your rights.
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