Class I Bike Paths

Class I Bike Paths and Shared-Use Paths are two-way facilities dedicated to non-motorized users with an alignment independent of the roadway system. The Class I Paths are typically installed along bodies of water, utility rights-of-way, abandoned railroad rights-of-way, or within schools, parks, or planned developments.

Source: Google Earth

DESIGN FEATURES

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The paved width of a Class I Bike Path shall be 8’ minimum (acceptable only at constrained locations), 10’ preferred for two-way travel. If the path is anticipated to accommodate high volumes of non-motorized users, the preferred width is 14’. The minimum paved width for a one-way Bike Path shall be 5’.

A minimum 2’ shoulder shall be provided on either side of the Bike Path.

A minimum 2’ clearance from the edge of pavement to any obstructions should be provided, 3’ is preferred.

Pavement markings and signing can be used to designate direction of travel or speed of travel.

Class I Paths must be designed to be accessible per ADA requirements. REFERENCES

California Highway Design Manual, Chapter 1000 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Path entrances should be designed to prevent entry from vehicles. Design options such A Class I Path differs from a trail in that it is required to be paved. A sidepath differs from a Class I Path in that the sidepath runs parallel to a roadway. If an adjacent sidewalk is provided, pedestrians are required to use the sidewalk, and the Class I Path would be dedicated to bicycles only. Lighting for bicycle paths is important and should be considered where nighttime use is not prohibited

Source: San Gabriel Valley Bike Master Plan