Most people think Los Angeles is more highway lanes than bike lanes. However, change is happening along the Los Angeles coast – but is it enough to shed their car-obsessed image?
The 32km long bi-directional South Bay Bike Trail, linking Santa Monica and Redondo Beach, was constructed to reduce conflicts between cyclists, skaters and pedestrians.
The trail has led to an increase in walking, cycling, skating and even segway activities!
The recreational cycle path is typically 4.5m wide (15ft), surfaced with smooth asphalt or concrete and has separate pedestrian facilities.
The bike trail has ‘landing areas’ which allow bikes to exit without excessive slowing or stopping. This improves both safety and journey times for LA’s cyclists.
Bike hire shops along the trail and on the Santa Monica pier hire bikes of all shapes and sizes.
The Federal Highway Administration found that separated bike paths are perceived by the public to be ‘the safest bikeway facility’.
Los Angeles has shown a commitment to urban cyclists in the creation of the South Bay Bike Trail, and if such comprehensive infrastructure could be implemented in the city itself, Los Angeles might just be able to ditch the automobile.
