Dutch government launches cycle path safety projects

Source: Nieuws Fietsberaad

The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment has commissioned four pilot projects aimed at improving cycle path safety.

These projects, which target the growing challenges posed by light electric vehicles (LEVs) on bike paths, will explore strategies to mitigate speed and mass differences that compromise cyclist safety. An informational session for road authorities interested in the pilot projects will be held on December 3 in the city of Utrecht, in the Netherlands.

As the popularity of LEVs like e-bikes, electric cargo bikes, and other small electric vehicles rises, so does the disparity in speed and weight on shared cycle paths. This growing variance, according to the ministry, puts additional pressure on traffic safety. In response, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment seeks to understand the potential benefits of rerouting certain LEVs to roadways, regulating bike path speeds, and reducing risk factors for cyclists.

Pilot project overview

Consultancy firm DTV is developing four specific pilot proposals under this initiative:

Roadway Relocation for Electric Cargo Bikes: This pilot examines moving electric cargo bikes used for freight transport from cycle paths to roadways, aiming to reduce congestion and speed variations on bike paths.

Setting Maximum Bike Path Speeds: By establishing a maximum speed limit on bike paths, this pilot aims to create a safer and more uniform flow of traffic among cyclists and LEVs.

Ban on LEVs in Pedestrian-Cyclist Shared Spaces: This pilot would prohibit LEVs in designated pedestrian areas where cycling is also permitted, addressing potential safety conflicts between pedestrians and faster, heavier vehicles.

Advisory Speed Limits Using Matrix Signs: The final pilot involves installing matrix signs to display recommended speeds on cycle paths. The signs would offer real-time guidance to cyclists and LEV users, promoting safer and more consistent speeds.

These proposals are intended to identify feasible solutions that could inform future policy on LEV regulation in shared spaces.

Road authority meeting due to take place

Road authorities are invited to Utrecht on December 3, to discuss and provide input on the pilot projects’ initial designs. This event offers an opportunity for stakeholders to learn about each proposal and discuss potential implementation. The day’s program will include dedicated sessions for each pilot project.

The Dutch government’s latest commitment to improving green mobility

This initiative is the latest scheme that signifies the government’s commitment to adapting urban infrastructure for safer, more efficient travel, addressing the evolving demands of cycling and electric mobility in the Netherlands.