In 2008, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials established a nation-wide corridor plan for US Bicycle Routes to facilitate travel between the states on roadways identified as suitable for cycling. US Bicycle Routes traverse a majority of roads and streets, with some connections on separated trails when appropriate.
State Departments of Transportation, such as Caltrans, determine the suitability of a route for a US Bicycle Route and submit an application to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials for the official designation as a US Bicycle Route. There is no requirement for facility construction or upgrades to routes identified as a US Bicycle Route. When submitting the request for designation, State Departments of Transportation must confirm that all relevant jurisdictions support the proposed route through local resolutions.
The Adventure Cycling Association houses many relevant resources to guide the route implementation process, including reference to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Purpose and Policy document (web attachment). Adventure Cycling Association also promotes the environmental, economic, health and transportation benefits of establishing a US Bicycle Route.
Adventure Cycling Association has identified a handful of clarifications for questions that have arisen in establishing a US Bicycle Route:
- The target audience for US Bicycle Routes are long-distance bicycle travelers who are experienced road users and accustomed to riding in higher-density traffic and at higher speeds.
- There is no cost for implementing a US Bicycle Route and there is no requirement for signage. Routes can be designated through a number of ways, including: maps, signs, pavement markings, downloadable geographic coordinates, etc.
- The roads, streets and trails designated as US Bicycle Routes are not limited in any way from being changed.
- Local jurisdictions are encouraged to submit alternative alignments to Caltrans if they desire.
An interactive map of the draft alignment proposed for US Bicycle Route 95 is included as a web attachment. Staff recommends zooming into your area of interest to see the proposed alignment most clearly.