Bicycle and pedestrian considerations are integrated at state, regional, and local levels through the adoption of plans that provide a roadmap for projects and programs. These plans help guide the implementation of complete streets policies, support community well-being, improve transportation options, and provide a framework for achieving transportation goals. Pedestrian and bicycle plans can stand alone or be part of a broader multimodal transportation system. Effective plans align with community priorities and are regularly reviewed and updated.

Regardless of the size of the community, plan development generally includes several key steps. It begins with establishing a vision and setting goals, followed by reviewing and documenting existing conditions, such as policies, ordinances, infrastructure, and programs, to identify challenges and opportunities. Engaging stakeholders, decision-makers, and the public is essential for gathering input and refining next steps. Data is used to assess project needs, identify areas for improvement, and set benchmarks for measuring progress. Finally, prioritizing projects and programs for implementation and identifying funding options contribute to the successful execution of the plan.

Resources

Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning, Program, and Project Development supports safer multimodal networks.

Collaborative Governance for Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Accessibility Infrastructure Data addresses gaps in accessing infrastructure data and proposes structural changes for improved data availability.

Fundamentals of Community Impact Assessment offers self-paced training on Community Impact Assessment in transportation planning.

Safe System Approach for the Urban Core describes how to apply the Safe System Approach in urban areas in relation to land uses and road users.

Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessments requires States to complete Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessments as part of their Strategic Highway Safety Plans.

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Examples

The Role of Metropolitan Planning Organizations in Planning for Equitable Shared Mobility: A Federal Highway Administration Peer Exchange Event summarizes presentations and discussions from a peer exchange on shared mobility with MPOs.

Illinois: New Bicycle Facility Inventory System offers a new statewide, interactive map database with information about bicycle lanes, paths, trails, and associated characteristics.

Intermodal Transportation Planning and Development: A Closer Look at Linking Transit to Bicycling and Walking shows a range of improvements to the Sun Tran system to better connect to transit in Tucson, Arizona.

Montgomery County, Maryland, Bicycle Master Plan establishes a vision and strategy for achieving a low stress bicycle network.

The Pedestrian Safety Action Plan in Austin, Texas outlines 21 recommendations for improving pedestrian safety across a wide range of program areas.

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