Bike and Pedestrian Improvements

Accommodating Bicyclists and Pedestrians in Virginia's Transportation Network

In 2004, the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) adopted the Policy For Integrating Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodations (2004 CTB Policy) (PDF). The policy provides a framework for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Chesterfield County to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians in the planning, funding, design, construction, operation and maintenance of Virginia’s transportation network.

These accommodations seek to provide the public with access to the transportation network, connections to alternate modes of transportation, and allow for personal transportation regardless of age, ability or income. View the Nov. 17, 2021, Board of Supervisors Community Connectivity Sidewalk Fund project update video.

Bike Lanes and Right Turns

Bike lanes are to separate bikes, e-bikes, motorized skateboards and scooters from other traffic. Bike lanes may be marked by signs, as well as white lines or colored pavement, and symbols applied to the pavement. Parking is not allowed in bike lanes. Often cyclists need to ride outside a bike lane when it is too narrow or hazards are present.

Motorists will not drive in a bike lane except in some cases when making a right turn. Motorists are only allowed to cross into a bike lane when turning right. Before crossing a bike lane to turn, drivers must scan for cyclists to the right, rear and forward, use their turn signal, scan again and then merge into the bike lane for the turn. 

Correct and incorrect methods for vehicles to make right turns with a bike lane present.