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1. Where does The Arcata Bike Boulevard project start and end?

The proposed location on I Street begins at South 17th Street and goes to Samoa Boulevard. On 10th Street it begins at the Intermodal Transit Facility (ITF) on F Street and extends west to Q Street and north to the 11th and Q Street intersection.

2. How is the project being funded?

The project is funded by Caltrans' California Bicycle Transportation Account (BTA) and matching local funds.

3. What is the purpose of the project

The purpose of the Arcata Bicycle Boulevard project is to increase bicycle use as a more viable transportation alternative and to increase awareness of their use through placement and creation of specialized signage, striping and minor landscape bulb outs. Also, the project seeks to increase awareness, safety and connectivity for bicycle commuters and the public.

4. What are the proposed project improvements?

The project generally includes traffic calming devices such as signage, minor traffic circles and striping, as well as crosswalks and wayfinding signage.

5. Are cars allowed on the Bike Boulevard? And what are the rules for automobile drivers and bicycle riders?

Yes, cars are allowed on the Bike Boulevard. The concept is to make all users aware of these bicycle preferred routes.

When driving an automobile: Vehicles are allowed to drive on and over bike boulevard pavement markings. If you find yourself driving behind a bicyclist and need to pass, only overtake the bicyclist at a safe speed and only if there is a legally safe passing distance of at least 3 feet. Motor vehicles are permitted on almost all portions of bike boulevards unless signs or pavement markings indicate otherwise. Turning from or onto a bike boulevard may be restricted at some intersections.

When riding a bike: While a bike boulevard prioritizes bicycle traffic, you must still obey all traffic signs and signals. Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians and motorists who have the right-of-way.

6. Will the project eliminate on-street parking?

No, on-street parking will still be available for cars and additional bike parking will be created on sidewalks along the boulevard (not in the road).

7. Will the speed limit on the Bike Boulevard be reduced?

No, the speed limit will remain at 25 mph. In some cases the drivable speed limit may be reduced to allow for passing.

8. What construction impacts are expected?

Construction impacts are expected to be minor with improvements generally limited to pavement striping, signage, and some road paving, concrete and electric work improvements.

9. How long is construction expected to take?

Construction is expected to take approximately 30 to 40 calendar days.

10. What improvements are proposed for the 11th and Q Street intersection?

The City is currently evaluating a 1-way vehicle concept for vehicles to go south and a 2-way bike/pedestrian area. One-way traffic would reduce the vehicle conflicts at the 11th and Q Street intersection and allow for a dedicated bike/pedestrian crossing.

11. What improvements are proposed for the 11th and I Street intersection?

The City is considering the installation of an all-way (4-way) stop, with pavement markings and signage.

12. What improvements are proposed for the 10th and K Street intersection?

The City is considering a pedestrian/bike activated crossing beacon, pavement markings and signage.

13. Can delivery trucks still get to my business?

Yes. The project improvements will not prevent delivery trucks from accessing businesses.

14. What does green pavement designate?

Green pavement markings designate bike lanes and areas of potential bike/vehicle conflicts. Automobiles are permitted to across green pavement markings.

15. How can I get additional information on the project?

For additional information, contact Netra Khatri, Assistant City Engineer/Public Works Deputy Director, at 707-825-2128.