Barcelona City Council has initially approved an executive project. It will extend the Travessera de les Corts cycle lane by 485 metres. This initiative enhances cyclist safety with "red carpet" priority zones and advanced stop lines. The extension connects the existing section, which opened in April 2024, from Joan Güell street to Numància street. This development is located within the bustling Les Corts district.
The new segment will maintain the current bidirectional configuration. It will be situated on the sea-facing side of the road, segregated from motor traffic. The lane measures 2.70 metres wide, with an additional 0.50-metre separation strip from vehicle lanes. This design aims to significantly improve visibility and priority for cyclists, particularly at complex intersections.
Enhancing Cyclist Safety and Visibility
The project introduces Advanced Stop Lines for Bicycles, commonly known as bike-boxes, at traffic lights. These innovative zones allow cyclists to position themselves ahead of motor vehicles. This grants them crucial priority and better visibility when starting from a standstill. Additionally, "red carpet" painted zones on the asphalt will clearly mark cyclist priority at challenging junctions. These include intersections like those at Vallespir and Numància streets. This visual cue reinforces the right-of-way for bicycles, especially during turning manoeuvres. Cyclists often intersect with vehicle paths at these points.
The "red carpet" zones will specifically protect cyclists making turns. For instance, when turning from the vertical lane of Numància street onto Travessera de les Corts, a bike-box will prepare cyclists for departure. The red carpet will then safeguard their turning path. This prevents them from becoming trapped in motor traffic. The design also includes standard safety elements. These feature recycled rubber separators with reflective elements and flexible maroon bollards with reflective bands. These measures collectively aim to create a safer environment for urban cyclists.
Project Management and Future Steps
BIMSA, Barcelona's municipal infrastructure company, manages this significant urban development project. The estimated execution budget stands at €386,000. The public information period for this project remains open until 1 June. This allows residents and stakeholders to review the plans and provide valuable feedback. Once all administrative procedures conclude, officials expect the construction works for this new cycle lane segment to last two months. The extension will also add 21 new inverted U-type bicycle parking spaces along its route. This provides convenient and secure options for cyclists.
This initiative represents a continued effort by Barcelona City Council to expand and improve the city's cycling infrastructure. It aims to make urban cycling safer and more accessible for residents and visitors alike. This project contributes directly to Barcelona's broader sustainable transport goals and enhances the quality of life in the Les Corts district.
Come and join our Barcelona English Speakers community on WhatsApp.
Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.
