This paper describes how bicycle lanes may be retrofitted on existing main roads in Melbourne, and in other Australasian cities. With the increase in motorised traffic, the continued use of bicycles requires the provision of a network of paths and roads with designated space to cycling. In Melbourne the proposed Principal Bicycle Network consists of 2000 km of bicycle lanes and 1000 km of off road paths. Bicycle Victoria, a community organisation, has studied 400 km of the roads on the proposed network and analysed the various ways that they can be made suitable for cycling. On some roads bicycle lanes can be fitted in by reallocating width without any effect on other stakeholders. On other roads provision of designated space for cycling will affect either motor vehicle use, parking, medians or nature strips. The total cost of onroad modifications for Melbourne's Principal Bicycle Network is estimated at $66 million, which could readily be provided over the next ten years. (A)
Abstract