Bicycle Infrastructure Experts Propose Safety Enhancements for Los Alamos Roadways

Los Alamos County is taking significant steps toward enhancing its cycling infrastructure, aiming to promote environmental sustainability and increase ridership. During a recent meeting of the Environmental Sustainability Board, members discussed the critical need for safe and comprehensive bike paths to encourage more residents to choose cycling as a mode of transport.

The board emphasized that cycling is one of the greenest transportation options available, but its success hinges on the quality of infrastructure. Currently, Los Alamos has a low cycling ridership rate of just 2.64%, primarily due to high levels of traffic stress and inadequate facilities. To attract a broader demographic, including women, children, and the elderly, the board highlighted the importance of creating safe, intuitive, and aesthetically pleasing bike lanes.

Key recommendations included the implementation of separated bike lanes, improved intersection designs, and continuous pathways that connect essential locations such as homes, workplaces, and recreational areas. The board referenced successful models from Northern European countries, advocating for a Vision Zero approach aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities through better design and engineering controls.

Specific design principles were discussed, such as controlling vehicle speeds and creating waiting areas for cyclists and pedestrians at intersections. These measures are intended to reduce accidents, particularly in high-stress areas where cyclists are most vulnerable. The board also suggested using guidelines from the National Association of City Transport Officials to ensure that infrastructure meets the needs of all users, including pedestrians and those with disabilities.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the board stressed the importance of public education on cycling rules and rights, particularly with the recent adoption of the Idaho stop law in New Mexico, which allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs. This change is expected to reduce the time cyclists spend in intersections, thereby lowering accident risks.

The board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to transforming Los Alamos into a more bike-friendly community. By prioritizing infrastructure development and public education, the county aims to foster a culture of cycling that not only supports environmental sustainability but also enhances the overall quality of life for its residents. Future steps will include gathering public input on proposed changes and exploring trial implementations of new designs to gauge community response.