The California Association of Bicycling Organizations (CABO) stood firmly against Senate Bill 1216 (SB-1216), recently signed into law by the Governor. This bill undermines critical aspects of our state’s bicycle infrastructure. SB-1216 defunds the development of Class III bikeways and significantly restricts Shared Lane Markings (Sharrows) use. While seemingly well-intentioned, this will likely have severe negative consequences for people who seek to use California’s public roads and for overall road safety.

The Importance of Class III Bikeways

Class III bikeways, also known as Bike Routes or Green Ways, are the unsung heroes of our present and likely near-future cycling infrastructure. These routes, which don’t require dedicated Bike Lanes or barrier-separated bikeways, are the backbone of many communities’ bicycle networks. The California Highway Design Manual provides clear guidance on the purpose and implementation of Class III bikeways:

Here’s why Class III bikeways are crucial:

1. Cost-Effective Solution: They provide miles of cyclist-friendly routes at a fraction of the cost of other infrastructure types.
2. Flexibility: They can be implemented on streets where space constraints make it impossible to add bike lanes or separated paths.
3. Connectivity: Class III routes often serve as vital links between other types of bicycle infrastructure, creating a comprehensive network.
4. Enhanced Service: According to the Highway Design Manual, bike routes should offer a higher degree of service than alternative streets, including features like traffic-actuated signals for bicycles, greater priority for bicyclists at intersections, slower vehicle speeds, and improved maintenance.

SB-1216 diverts funding from these essential routes to more expensive Class I, II, and IV infrastructure. While we support the development of all classes of bikeways, we firmly believe that this should not come at the expense of Class III routes, which play a unique and vital role in our cycling infrastructure.

The Critical Role of Sharrows

Shared Lane Markings, commonly known as Sharrows, are another target of this legislation. The bill imposes significant restrictions on their use. The current language states that new Sharrows shall not be installed on highways with posted speed limits greater than 30 miles per hour, except at or near intersections to connect Class I, II, or IV bikeways.

This restriction contradicts the California Highway Design Manual: “Additional enhancement of Class III facilities can be provided by adding shared roadway markings along the route.” The manual does not specify speed limits for using Sharrows, recognizing their value across various road conditions.

The new law poses challenges:

1. Limited Application: Many urban and suburban streets have speed limits above 30 mph, potentially eliminating Sharrows from areas most needed for bicyclists desiring to ride there.
2. Safety Concerns: Sharrows alert drivers to the presence of cyclists in the lane, increasing safety and reducing potential conflicts. Limiting their use may compromise cyclist safety and increase harassment on higher-speed roads.
3. Incomplete Network Connections: While the amendment allows Sharrows near intersections to connect other bikeway classes, it doesn’t address the value of continuous visual cues along entire routes.

CABO has long advocated using Sharrows on higher-speed roads, recognizing their value in creating safer, more connected cycling networks. We believe the restrictions on Sharrows remain too stringent and inconsistent with official guidance.

A Call for a Balanced Approach

We at CABO believe in a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to bicycle infrastructure aligned with the current California Highway Design Manual. All classes of bikeways serve a purpose, and our goal should be to create an integrated network that serves cyclists of all abilities and preferences. SB-1216, despite its good intentions, is likely to dismantle key components of this network and contradicts established best practices.

We urge traffic engineers to continue using Bike Routes and Sharrows where appropriate. We urge our legislators to listen to cycling advocacy groups like CABO and develop policies that enhance California’s bicycle infrastructure in accordance with official guidance. Let’s focus on expanding our cycling network, not limiting our options.

Together, we can ensure that California remains a leader in creating safe, accessible, and comprehensive bicycle infrastructure for all, as outlined in our Highway Design Manual.