Penn State University Park Bicycle Master Plan

The plan cements a vision for building out a bike network and what programs would support a more bikeable campus.

Nelson\Nygaard worked closely with Penn State to create the University Park Bicycle Master Plan (BMP). The BMP outlines strategies that will enhance the experience of biking to, from, and around campus. Importantly, the plan builds on the University’s ongoing efforts to advance bikeability, which has resulted in the campus’ Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly University designation.

Throughout the planning process, the project team engaged with students, faculty, and staff, evaluated the current landscape of biking on campus, defined specific goals and metrics for the project, and identified necessary trade-offs to complete the bicycle network. The final plan has resulted in a clear vision based on shared goals and objectives. The plan recommendations are comprised of a Biking Network for bike circulation and storage, and operational and program strategies for supporting infrastructure implementation and advancing campus bicycle culture. The network includes a variety of proposed bike path and street enhancements intended to support bicyclists on campus. Elements of the proposed projects within the bike network include short-term strategies such as signage and pavement markings, as well as long-term strategies such as rebuilding the curb and widening the right-of-way.

Guided by extensive campus engagement and analysis of biking conditions, the plan describes a unique future for the University Park campus to provide a safe, convenient, and connected bike network. This proposed bike network, in combination with recommended operations and resources, will ensure that the improved system will be practical, effective, and supported for years to come.