DEVELOPING THE CITY'S BIKEWAY SYSTEM

Chicago's efforts to develop its bikeway system throughout the city are described in this article. Beginning in 1970, plans were prepared for the bikeway routes, and they were implemented the following year. Surveys yielding favorable reaction to the system resulted in expansion of the existing routes, and trial of an exclusive bicycle lane. Inevitable problems arose upon implementing this, however, and it is not likely that the concept will be expanded. An encompassing, regional bikeway system is also currently being planned, and a route which features the architectural landmarks of the city has been created. A change in the funding of bikeways occurred in 1972, which continued to pay for route signs, but not curb ramping or path paving. Although problems such as these still need to be resolved, Chicago has made much progress in the development of facilties for this alternate form of transportation and recreation.