Drivers, walkers, cyclists untangled in new traffic plan

An improved pedestrian experience is seen as part of the city's slow-traffic system, according to the trial Guidelines for Zhuhai Urban Streets Traffic Plan issued by the Housing & Urban-Rural Planning & Construction Bureau.

Under the guidelines, city streets must meet grading, separation, and paving requirements with foot travel coming first. Slow-traffic spaces that favor pedestrians must be consecutive, intensive, and independent with greater safety and human-based facilities.

Depending upon their usage and surrounding landscapes, streets or roads will be designated for either traffic, residential, commercial, industrial, or comprehensive use.

The rules state it is not advisable to designate any parking areas on newly planned streets. However, parking is not seriously restricted on already planned or upgraded streets as they accommodate small cars and sidewalks as well as non-motor vehicle lanes.

Slow-traffic pathways [Photo courtesy Zhuhai Daily]

In addition, the rules call for separate sidewalks and bikeways. Similarly, slow-traffic lanes will run beside isolation belts and street-side buildings.

By segregating motor and non-motor vehicle lanes using colored pavement, bikes can be guided onto designated paths with their rights-of-way clearly marked.

The measures were drafted because bicycle lanes are beginning to overwhelm the pedestrian system, said a bureau official. There now are at least 150,000 cyclists in Zhuhai every day, according to official statistics, which has raised the call for better road safety management.

Also planned is a micro-circulation transportation system suitable for small communities with a high-density street pattern and narrow roads. Neighborhood structures of more than 500 m are encouraged to open interior slow-traffic lanes.

A seamless transfer from buses to bikes is to be realized via a refined arrangement between bus stops, bike lanes, and green spaces. Also to be upgraded are exclusive bus lanes and mass transit. And, weatherproof corridors between bus stops and buildings are to be created.