Downtown Bicycle Facility Alternatives Analysis

With adoption of the 2017 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, RTC provided a blueprint for creating safer, more connected bicycle and pedestrian facilities throughout the Truckee Meadows region. The plan identifies gaps in the existing network, and prioritizes projects to connect existing and new facilities. Recognizing the need for dedicated bicycle facilities connecting UNR with Midtown, RTC Washoe developed four alternatives on Center, Sierra, and Virginia Streets for evaluation. These alternatives are:

1. A two‐way cycle track on Center Street from S. Virginia Street (at Mary Street) to 9th Street.

2. A northbound bike lane on Center Street from S. Virginia Street (at Mary Street) to 9th Street AND a southbound bike lane on Sierra Street from 9th Street to California Avenue.

3. A one‐way cycle track northbound on Center Street from S. Virginia Street (at Mary Street) to 9th Street AND a one‐way cycle track southbound on Sierra Street from 9th Street to California Avenue.

4. A center‐running two‐way cycle track on Virginia Street from 9th Street to Liberty Streets.

This report presents the evaluation of these alternatives to determine project feasibility, estimated costs, and the overall best option for a high‐quality north‐south downtown connection.