Just like any other space, end-of-trip facilities need to be safe, easily accessible and efficient to use. To make sure the facility is all of these things, it’s important to consider the user or traffic flow when designing the space. How do people enter and exit the facility? Are there other mode shares (and therefore: traffic flows) in the area? And what about peak hour traffic?
In this article, we’ll outline the key things to consider regarding the access of an end-of-trip facility, helping you to make space enjoyable for cyclists to use.
Mind the ramp gradient
Let’s start with ramps. Most buildings have ramps in their parking – which is where most end-of-trip facilities are. This means that cyclists often have to use the ramp to access the bike or change room. You want the ramp gradient to be 1 in 8 maximum. Otherwise, they simply become too steep.
Pass boom gates safely
Boom gates are very commonly used to manage traffic, mostly for cars. They also form a common hazard for cyclists and cause accidents when badly designed. To allow cyclists to pass safely, a clearance of 1500mm (or 4’ 11”) should be provided.
Grates designed to not let tyres slip in
Parkings often have grates to regulate traffic. Standard grates are very dangerous for cyclists and often lead to accidents as tyres slip in. To keep riders safe, make sure the grates are designed in a way tyres don’t get stuck – like the ones shown below.
Bike-proof stairs
If you can avoid stairs, do so. They aren’t great for users with bikes. However, we know that at times they are essential. If so, such stairs need to be bike-proof. This means the following:
- Widthwise, we suggest 1250mm wide (or 4’ 1”) for single traffic and 2500mm (or 8’ 2”) wide to allow for bidirectional traffic.
- Channels should be incorporated to accommodate the wheels of the bicycle. They should be located at least 400mm (or 1’ 4”) from walls, be 75mm to 150mm (or 3” – 6”) wide, and rounded to provide for ease of wheeling for all bikes.
- Guardrails should be located on the alternative wall of the channel to mitigate clash points.
- Generous going should also be provisioned and the stair gradient should be no more than 30 degrees.
- A clear turning space of 1500mm by 1500mm (or 4’ 11” by 4’ 11”) should be accommodated at the top and bottom of any stairs.
Appropriately sized lifts
Lifts provide a safe means of connection but can bottleneck traffic during peak times. Especially if they are used for getting bikes to the facility. To provide for optimal user flow, they need to be appropriately sized – at least 2m by 2m internally – and preferably have double sided doors.
Use rubber or plastic speed humps
Speed humps are a good way to regulate speed in car parks but can be dangerous for cyclists. We recommend using rubber or plastic speed humps instead of metal design, as these become a hazard when wet.
Driveway markings are a must
Finally, you want to make sure to fully consider your design for a bicycle pathway and pedestrian marking. They help increase safety but also work well as wayfinding.
So, that’s our short guide to access-design for end-of-trip facility projects. Need a recap? Make sure to check out this great 3-minute video. Still feel a bit lost? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
