RTC debuts new bike map with more than 1,000 miles of bike lanes and routes

The updated RTC Bike Map for Southern Nevada touts more than 1,000 miles of bike lanes, paved paths and shared roadways among other useful information. Of the total miles, about 36 percent cover off-street trails and sidewalks, and about 14 percent of these miles are “high comfort” facilities appropriate for all ages and abilities. Since the map was last printed in 2013, the miles of bike lanes, paths and routes grew 13 percent. And with more than 50,000 bikes carried monthly on RTC (Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada) transit buses, the region truly is “bike friendly.”

The 2018 Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) bike map is now available at local bike shops, RTC facilities and community centers.

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The updated map reflects significant progress in advancing safe and easy access to bicycling routes and amenities across Southern Nevada. It replaces the map released in 2013 and supports the Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan recommendations and Southern Nevada Strong Regional Plan to increase transportation choices for residents and visitors.

Reflecting growing interest in and demand for additional bike facilities, the region now boasts more than 1,000 miles of bike lanes, paved paths and shared roadways. Of the total, about 36 percent of the network is made up of off-street trails and sidewalks. About 14 percent of roadway miles are “high comfort,” or appropriate for all ages and physical abilities. To underscore progress made, the League of American Bicyclists recently honored Clark County as a bike friendly community.

Highlights of new bike facilities in Southern Nevada since 2013:

  • All bike accommodations (bike lanes, on- and off-street routes) increased by 13.3 percent to 1,022 total miles
  • On-street bike accommodations grew from 558 miles to 651 miles, a 16.6 percent gain
  • Off-street bike accommodations increased from 343 miles to 371 miles, up 8 percent

Nationwide, bike share programs are contributing to the interest in multi-modal transportation options. Last fall, RTC Bike Share marked its first year in operation with 21 docking stations and 180 bikes strategically placed in downtown Las Vegas, which also boasts an extensive network of dedicated green bike lanes.

Available in print at all local bike shops and RTC facilities, the free map provides useful information for both avid and recreational cyclists, including location of bike centers, retail outlets, bike lanes, trails, and maintenance contacts.

About the RTC

The RTC is the transit authority, transportation planning organization, regional traffic management agency and administrator of Southern Nevada Strong, the regional planning effort for the Las Vegas valley. The RTC’s vision is to provide a safe, convenient and effective regional transportation system that enhances mobility and air quality for citizens and visitors. The RTC encourages residents and visitors to use a variety of transportation choices to help reduce traffic congestion, clean the air and improve the quality of life in Southern Nevada. For more information about the RTC and its major initiatives or to download its transit app rideRTC, visit rtcsnv.com.

Published in July 2018 in The Western Planner

Paul Moberly