How to use Active Transportation Facilities in the City of Portage la Prairie

With the installation of Bike lanes on Saskatchewan Ave. W. completed and bike week happening this week, the City of Portage would like to provide information and tips for using these new facilities safely and respectfully.

Who should be using the bike lane vs multi use path vs sidewalk?

The City of Portage has three main types of active transportation pathways.  If you are not sure which to use here are some guidelines:

• Bike lanes are suitable for bikes, scooters, electric mobility devices, skateboards, etc.  They are typically asphalt paved and have markings designating them as bike paths.  In general, if you are travelling faster than a walking pace but slower than a motor vehicle (30km/hr or less), then using the bike lane would be appropriate.
• Sidewalks are typically concrete and are for pedestrians only, this would include mobility devices travelling at a walking pace. 
• Active Transportation/Multi Use paths are typically asphalt and often will have a dashed line down the centre (Crescent Path for example).  These paths are shared by pedestrians, bikes, and the other types of traffic that use sidewalks and bike lanes.

Riding Rules of Thumb

Bikes are vehicles, so behave like one! Only ride in the direction of traffic, obey all traffic signs and signals, and don’t ride on the sidewalk

When passing another cyclist or a pedestrian, make sure to say “on your left” and ring your bell so they know you’re passing and don’t jut in front of you out of distraction or surprise.

Always use hand signals when you turn to alert other riders, drivers, and pedestrians of your intention to change direction. 

Remember—just because you’re in a bike lane doesn’t mean cars will automatically respect your space. Never assume drivers can see you and always ride with caution!
 

Riding in Protected Bike Lanes

Protected bike lanes are those that use curbs, posts, parked cars, or other barriers to shield the bike lane from moving car traffic. These lanes are for one way travel on each side of the road.

Use extra caution when leaving the protected bike lane. Examples include when you’re maneuvering around an obstacle, making a left hand turn, or if you need to turn around. Again, be very careful when turning left. 

1. Watch for cars turning right. Protected bike lanes are usually designed for high visibility at intersections, but some drivers still might not be able to see clearly, may have forgotten that a bike lane exists, or are just plain distracted. 
2. If possible, ride toward the center of the lane. When riding in a bike lane next to the curb you should ride more toward the center of the lane to avoid puddles, debris, and anything else that could potentially fly up from the road. 

Riding on Bike Paths and Recreational Paths

The traffic you’ll encounter on bike and recreational paths is mostly from other cyclists and pedestrians. You’ll only deal with car traffic at intersections.

1. Be very aware of other path traffic. This can include pedestrians, little kids, dogs, strollers, other cyclists, sight-seers, etc. With so much going on, it’s easier to get distracted, and people often act unpredictably. 
2. Be respectful when passing other users. Call out “on your left” before you pass and consider using a bell to alert others to your presence. Depending on who you are passing and how distracted they seem, you might even want to slow down while you pass. Similarly, reduce your speed through high-traffic areas. 
3. Obey lane markers, if applicable. Most bike paths have two-way traffic, so try to stay in your lane unless you’re passing. 

When we all follow the rules and respect other users we can contribute to a more enjoyable and fun experience for all. Remember to always use a bike helmet and ride with front and rear lights. Under Manitoba law, it’s compulsory for anyone under 18 years old to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet when cycling.