Pedestrians and cyclists likely to share paths in Hong Kong’s latest bicycle networks
Model represents departure from ‘segregation’ of road users currently practised in city
Two of Hong Kong’s districts are likely to see the city’s first cycling networks shared by both cyclists and pedestrians, in a move away from what critics describe as a “segregation” system separating these two types of road users.
Proposals for a cycle track in the Kai Tak development area and a shared cycling passage near Hong Kong Velodrome in Tseung Kwan O will be discussed by the Kwun Tong and Sai Kung district councils on Tuesday.
Trials could take place as early as next month and early next year.
In the government’s latest paper submitted to the Kwun Tong district council, officials proposed to adopt the sharing concept on the 13km Kai Tak cycle track.
“Compared to the traditional separation-style cycle track, [the sharing model] can more efficiently make use of the recreational spaces and the waterfront within the Kai Tak development area,” the document stated. “It will also promote the integration of the track and its surrounding environment, and improve ... the connectivity of the design.”
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The track, which officials have proposed to name the “green corridor”, will be six to 10 metres wide, according to the paper. In areas without such space, the track will be divided into cycling and pedestrian lanes.