Types of Bikeways

Learn about bike lanes, paved paths, paved shoulders, shared lane markings and wide curb lanes.

• Bike lane: Bike lanes are areas on the road that are marked for use by bicyclists. Vehicles can cross bike lanes to make a turn or to park.
• Paved path: Paved paths are two-way paths that are physically separated from the road and are shared by bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Paved shoulder: Paved shoulders are slightly narrower than a full traffic lane. They are are a safety feature usually found on rural highways. Paved shoulders reduce the risk of run-off-the-road crashes and provide space for bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Shared lane marking: Shared lane markings (or ''sharrows'') are a roadway marking that helps guide bicyclists to ride outside the ''door zone'' next to on-street parking and where they are visible to motorists turning from side streets. Shared lane markings help improve safety.
• Wide curb lane: Wide curb lanes are outermost lane of a roadway that are wide enough (usually 14-feet wide) for a bicyclist and a motor vehicle to share the lane safely. Wide curb lanes are usually used when there is not enough space to add marked bike lanes.