Network level design for cycling

This chapter provides an overview of existing approaches for cycle network planning in research and in practice. First, main requirements for cycle networks are described, which are safety, cohesion, directness, comfort, attractiveness and adaptability. Second, an overview of traditional and emerging data sources for cycle network planning is presented and compared with the initially formulated requirements. Third, two approaches for the multi-modal functional classification of street networks including cycling are introduced, followed by a presentation of specific guidance for developing cycle networks and related academic studies. Three approaches for cycle network design are described. (1) The development of cycle networks based on desire lines and cycle routes connecting relevant origins and destinations as suggested by most guidelines is a suitable basis for cycle network design. (2) It should be combined with data-driven demand-focused approaches in order to optimally adjust the cycle networks with user patterns and preferences. (3) Optimization concepts and network growth strategies help to prioritize investments. The main challenge that is hardly addressed in any of the identified references is the coordination of cycle network development with the other transport modes and street functions. We therefore propose an integrated multi-modal approach for cycle network design, an approach that considers all transport modes, street users, street functions and usages and is also coordinated with street design and space availability.