Columbus has matched Oregon. Well, at least in the installation of an experimental pavement marking called a “Bike Box.” A set of these “bicycle-priority, bicycle staging areas” have been marked, and painted at the corners of Milton & North Broadway, in the heart of Clintonville where the Olentangy Bike Trail weaves through a residential neighborhood.

The Bicentennial Bike Plan describes the possible benefits of Bike Boxes / Advance Stop Lines this way: “When a traffic signal is red, bicyclists can move into this “box” ahead of the cars to make themselves more visible, or to move into a more comfortable position to make a turn.”

You’ll note in the pictures that the bike lane which allows bicyclists to advance on the right to the front of the traffic, is approximately two-car lengths. Yes, the allowance (encouragement) of bicyclists passing on the right of motor vehicles presents the possibility of a “right hook” conflict. This type conflict is the primary argument against bike lanes in many places; however, the heavy bicycle traffic on Milton Ave. and the general feeling that residents of this neighborhood expect a high volume of bicyclists, make this a possible low-risk intersection for evaluation of this pavement treatment. The cyclists have always surfed their way to the front of this intersection before. Perhaps this treatment will provide a little more safety to the existing behavior?

And remember, just because the bike lane is there, doesn’t mean you have to use it. If you choose to wait your turn among cars, with control of a lane…as you should on any other street in our region….we’ve got no problem with that. Ironically, this innovative treatment is encouraging behavior that many competent cyclists have condemned. It’s confusing to investigate progressive treatments, eh?

These pavement treatments have not been included in the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices; therefore a special waiver from the FHWA was obtained to test and evaluate these treatments at this specific location. The engineering firm of EMH&T, worked with the City of Columbus to collect data, do analysis, and request the treatment. They will monitor the intersection in the coming months to provide evaluation to the FHWA. We’re all eager to understand the effects of this innovative treatment!

So, check out the treatment the next time you’re in the neighborhood. You’ll note clear signage for “No turn on red” (for cars), and indications of where bicycles and cars should stage at the intersection. There is no longer a push-button for actuating the traffic light; rather a series of highly sensitive under-pavement sensors that detect bicycles easily.

Let’s remember this is an “experimental treatment.” See the picture below of the video camera which has been collecting data for evaluation.  The data is extensive, and revealing; it notes rolling and stopping positions of cyclists, moptorists, and pedestrians. And, it’s even captured the red-light runners too! Please feel free to contact the City (at 311) with feedback.