Connected Multimodal Networks
RELATED TOPICS: Plan Development, Transit, Complete Streets
Multimodal transportation networks connect community members with jobs, healthcare, educational opportunities, recreation, and a wide range of other services. Accessing these services can be challenging for individuals who walk or bike due to gaps or missing connections that may limit travel options for all community members.
A shift toward developing complete and connected multimodal transportation networks is underway in many communities. Transportation agencies and their partners are emphasizing comprehensive networks that link key destinations through walking and bicycling infrastructure, rather than isolated pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Creating connected multimodal networks requires a clear vision and strategic planning. Visual tools and maps can help identify gaps and opportunities within transportation networks. Successful network development involves planning and design approaches that consider local conditions and allow for flexibility. New methods to measure, prioritize, and implement multimodal projects can support agencies in building transportation systems that serve a wide range of needs.
Resources
Achieving Multimodal Networks: Applying Design Flexibility and Reducing Conflicts presents practitioner-oriented guidance for agencies who want to apply context-specific design to reduce conflicts and connect their networks.
Guidebook for Measuring Multimodal Network Connectivity shares methods for measuring networks and prioritizing opportunities to build connections.
Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks provides examples of applying nonmotorized network principles in small and rural communities.
Defining Connected Bike Networks explores concepts and terminology to help define connected and low stress networks.
Integration of Shared Micromobility into Public Transit: A Systematic Literature Review with Grey Literature reviews the integration of shared micromobility into public transit systems.
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Examples
Case Studies in Delivering Safe, Comfortable, and Connected Pedestrian and Bicycle Networks (Volume I and Volume II) showcases more than 80 examples of projects intended to connect nonmotorized networks.
Montgomery County, Maryland Bicycle Master Plan establishes a vision and strategy for achieving a low stress bicycle network.
Fostering Multimodal Connectivity Newsletter highlights multimodal projects that improve safety and connectivity.
The Great Bike Infrastructure Project Database offers a database of thousands of bike projects across the U.S. to help communities learn about and expand safe and connected bike infrastructure.
Chicago, IL: Updated Cycling Strategy to Expand Bike Network and Increase Everyday Cycling aims to provide low-stress options and create a connected network.