Bicycle Facilities and Markings

There are many different facilities and treatments used in the Billings area to better facilitate a safer and more predictable user experience for the traveling public. Here are the more common facilities:

Multi-Use Trails


Trails.jpg Multi-use trails, also referred to as "shared-use pathways", provide a low-stress environment for walking, bicycling, jogging, walking the dog and many other activities that are separate from motor-vehicle traffic.
They are the backbone of the bicycle network and an extension of the on-street facilities, but not an alternative to them.

Sharing the Trail Video
Bike Lanes


Bike Lane.jpg Bike lanes facilitate predictable movements and travel behavior through the designation of a lane for the exclusive use of people riding bicycles. They are frequently located adjacent to motor vehicle lanes, safely flowing in the same direction.

According to Montana law, MCA 61-8-328, "A motor vehicle may not be driven or parked in a bicycle lane that is signed and delineated as a bicycle lane by official traffic control devices."


Buffered Bike Lanes


buffered bike lane billings montana Buffered bike lanes are bike lanes with a designated area to separate the bicycles from motor vehicles. They provide a greater distance between a bicycle and motor vehicle, provide a space for passing and increase a sense of perceived safety.
These treatments generally appeal to a wider cross section of bicycle users over conventional bike lanes.
Shared Lane Markings


shared_lane_marking.jpg Shared lane markings, or "sharrows", are not a facility type, but a pavement marking. They are used to inform the public to the potential presence of people riding bicycles in a shared lane.

They require no additional street space, provide wayfinding and reduce the risk of wrong-way riding. They may designate positioning or be installed center lane to reduce maintenance.

The Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices provides guidance on their installation.








For a more comprehensive visual exploration of bicycle facilities, visit the NACTO Urban Bikeways Design Guide.




User Groups

Getting Around

Resources

Secure Storage

Bicycles and Business
Families on Bikes
Getting to School
Seniors on a Roll
Women in Motion
Facilities and Markings
Routes and Maps
Tips for Traveling
Traveling on Foot
Billings Area Bikeway and Trails Master Plan
BMVP home: AmeriCorps VISTA
Complete Streets Policy
Bicycle Parking
Bicycle Security




These pages made in conjunction with