Southern Nevada is rapidly transforming into a haven for cyclists, thanks to the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada’s (RTC) 2017 Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (RBPP). This ambitious initiative strives to create a comprehensive network of safe, convenient, and accessible cycling routes across urban and suburban areas, catering to cyclists of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a casual rider or a dedicated road cyclist, the infrastructure upgrades laid out by the RTC will dramatically enhance the cycling experience throughout Southern Nevada.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the details of the RBPP, covering current cycling infrastructure, plans for future expansion, and the benefits these developments will bring to road cyclists. We’ll also discuss the safety challenges cyclists still face and why cyclists involved in accidents should seek the expertise of Lawyers 4 Cyclists, a dedicated legal team specializing in bike-related incidents in Nevada.
Vision for Cycling in Southern Nevada
At the heart of the RBPP is a vision for a connected, safe, and convenient cycling system that enhances both recreational and transportation opportunities for all users. The plan supports broader goals for economic development, health improvements, environmental sustainability, and equitable access to transportation. This vision is aligned with the Southern Nevada Strong initiative, a regional strategy focused on sustainable growth and long-term economic success.
Key goals of the RBPP include:
- Safety and Comfort: Creating a network of high-comfort facilities designed to protect cyclists from traffic hazards.
- Connectivity: Enhancing the connection between residential areas, workplaces, parks, schools, and public transit.
- Health and Equity: Addressing health disparities by improving active transportation options, particularly in underserved communities.
- Education and Engagement: Raising public awareness about the benefits of cycling and encouraging broader participation.
The ultimate goal is to make cycling a viable, safe, and attractive option for all Southern Nevadans, helping to reduce car dependency and improve air quality in the process.
Current Bicycle Infrastructure in Southern Nevada
As of 2017, Southern Nevada has 868 miles of bike lanes, shared paths, and bike routes. However, only about 46% of these facilities meet the “high-comfort” standards, meaning they are suitable for cyclists of all ages and experience levels. High-comfort routes include features like buffered bike lanes, separated bike lanes, and shared-use paths that physically separate cyclists from traffic, providing a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
The breakdown of current bike infrastructure in the region is as follows:
- Shared-use Paths (42.7%): These paths are shared by cyclists and pedestrians and are often located away from roadways, providing a safer, more scenic route for recreational riders.
- Bike Lanes (53.9%): These lanes are marked on roads but not physically separated from traffic, making them more suitable for experienced cyclists.
- Buffered Bike Lanes (3.1%): These lanes include additional space or barriers between cyclists and motor vehicles, improving safety and comfort.
- Separated Bike Lanes (0.2%): These lanes are physically separated from traffic by barriers, providing the highest level of safety for cyclists.
Despite these existing facilities, there are significant gaps in the network, particularly in high-density urban areas like Las Vegas. Cyclists frequently face challenges such as narrow bike lanes, high traffic volumes, and intersections without adequate cyclist protections. This incomplete infrastructure has left many cyclists, particularly less experienced riders, feeling unsafe or discouraged from using the existing bike network.
Future Plans for Expansion
The RBPP aims to dramatically expand and improve the cycling infrastructure in Southern Nevada by adding 1,336 miles of new bike facilities. This expansion will bring the total network to 2,023 miles, with a focus on creating “high-comfort” routes that cater to all riders, including families, children, and less confident cyclists.
Key areas of focus include:
- Increased Separation from Traffic: The plan prioritizes the construction of separated bike lanes and buffered bike lanes, particularly along major arterial roads where high-speed traffic poses significant risks to cyclists.
- Better Connectivity: New bike paths will be designed to connect residential neighborhoods with key destinations such as schools, parks, and employment centers, as well as transit hubs, allowing cyclists to seamlessly integrate biking with public transportation.
- Trail Networks: Expanding shared-use paths, especially those that provide access to scenic areas like Floyd Lamb Park and the Las Vegas Wash, will create more opportunities for recreational cyclists.
- Improved Safety Measures: The RTC plans to incorporate traffic-calming measures, improved lighting, and more frequent crosswalks and bike crossings to reduce the risk of accidents.
When fully implemented, the RBPP will transform Southern Nevada into one of the most bike-friendly regions in the western United States. About 73% of the future bike network will consist of high-comfort facilities, compared to just 46% today. This will make it easier and safer for cyclists of all ages to navigate the region, whether for commuting, exercise, or leisure.
Safety Challenges for Road Cyclists
Despite the optimistic outlook, road cycling in Southern Nevada remains fraught with dangers. Between 2011 and 2015, the region experienced an alarming increase in bicycle-related accidents. Most crashes occurred on roadways with speed limits between 35 and 45 mph, where cyclists are particularly vulnerable to fast-moving traffic. Key factors contributing to these accidents include inadequate bike lanes, poor lighting, and intersections that fail to accommodate cyclists.
The RBPP addresses these concerns by recommending several critical safety improvements, including:
- More Separated Lanes: Physically separated bike lanes will provide a buffer between cyclists and vehicles, reducing the likelihood of collisions.
- Traffic-Calming Measures: The installation of speed bumps, roundabouts, and other traffic-calming features will help slow down cars and make streets safer for cyclists.
- Intersection Upgrades: Safer intersection designs, including protected bike crossings and improved signaling, will reduce the risk of accidents at key conflict points.
However, until these improvements are fully realized, road cyclists in Southern Nevada must remain vigilant and cautious, particularly when riding in high-traffic areas.
Public Involvement in the RBPP
Public participation has been a crucial element in the development of the RBPP. The RTC has conducted extensive outreach to gather input from cyclists and other stakeholders, ensuring that the plan reflects the needs and desires of the community. More than 1,000 people responded to surveys, and over 1,200 comments were submitted through interactive mapping tools, which allowed residents to propose new bike routes and highlight problem areas.
The feedback gathered through this process has helped shape the final recommendations of the RBPP. Cyclists consistently expressed a desire for:
- More Separated Bike Lanes: Riders feel safer when there is a physical barrier between them and traffic, particularly on busy streets.
- Better Trail Networks: Recreational cyclists want more access to scenic areas and longer, uninterrupted paths.
- Improved Safety at Intersections: Cyclists are concerned about the lack of safe crossings and signaling at major intersections, which are often the site of accidents.
The RBPP aims to address these concerns while promoting cycling as a viable and attractive transportation option for all residents.
Legal Considerations for Cyclists in Nevada
While the RBPP will undoubtedly make Southern Nevada safer for cyclists, accidents remain a reality. When an accident occurs, cyclists often face significant challenges when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and legal claims. This is where Lawyers 4 Cyclists can help.
Here’s why it’s crucial to hire a dedicated cycling attorney after an accident:
- Specialized Knowledge: Lawyers 4 Cyclists specialize in Nevada’s cycling laws, which can be complex and vary depending on the circumstances of the accident. They know how to navigate these legal intricacies to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: After an accident, insurance companies may attempt to minimize your compensation. Lawyers 4 Cyclists are experienced in dealing with these tactics and can negotiate to ensure you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.
- Understanding the Full Extent of Injuries: Cycling accidents can result in serious injuries that aren’t always immediately apparent. Lawyers 4 Cyclists will work with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries and ensure that long-term medical costs are factored into any settlement.
- Advocating for Your Rights: In cases where the driver is at fault, it’s essential to have a legal team that will fight for your rights and hold the responsible party accountable.
Whether you’ve been involved in a minor crash or a serious accident, Lawyers 4 Cyclists can provide the legal support you need to recover both physically and financially.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Southern Nevada Cyclists
The Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan marks a significant step forward in making Southern Nevada a safer and more enjoyable place for cyclists. With ambitious plans to expand high-comfort bike lanes, improve safety measures, and increase connectivity, the future of cycling in the region looks bright. However, until these plans are fully implemented, road cyclists must remain cautious, particularly in high-traffic areas where accidents are more likely to occur.
If you are involved in a cycling accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Lawyers 4 Cyclists are here to help. With their expertise in Nevada cycling law and commitment to protecting cyclists’ rights, they can provide the legal guidance you need to get back on the road with peaceon. Whether it’s managing insurance claims, handling medical costs, or seeking compensation for damages, Lawyers 4 Cyclists have the expertise to support you at every step.
To learn more about how you can stay safe on Nevada’s roads and how Lawyers 4 Cyclists can help if you’re involved in an accident, visit our website or schedule a consultation today.
Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy the ride across Southern Nevada’s growing network of cycling paths. This article is intended to be informative, only. It is not intended to provide legal advice. If you have quesitons about your rights as a cyclist, please call us at 1-877-7-CYCLIN (1-877-729-2546).