Conflicting interests in cycleway design.

Cycling provides a healthy sustainable means of transport. As part of the New South Wales Government's Action for Bikes, BikePlan 2010, the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) commissioned the design and construction of a cycleway approximately 8 kilometres through Sydney's lower north shore to form part of a regional cycle route in Sydney's overall bicycle network, as part of a major highway project. The provision of a cycleway generated considerable interest from the general community, cyclist groups, community groups, and local councils. At times the views of these parties have differed and have been in conflict with the project requirements. In addition, the corridor provided for the cycleway had significant constraints. Some of the issues addressed through the design process included: path type, path nomenclature, sight distance and path intersections, path gradient, road intersection treatments, pavement and surfaces, signage, fencing, and lighting. This paper discusses the issues and design outcomes this project addressed to assist designers and constructors in planning and designing future cycleways. Information is also relevant for those involved with the preparation of guidelines outlining areas to be investigated further. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. 0612AR242E.