Bicycle Friendly Community

Arcata, CA | Silver Level

Recent bicycling investment: In 2011, the City od Arcata invested in bike lanes and bike parking on H Street- a main street heading towards the center of town.

Three bicycling highlights:

Arcata continues to improve bicycle infrastructure. The Samoa Gateway Project and the H Street Sidewalk Widening Project both included significant traffic calming features. Bicycle lanes were expanded on Samoa Boulevard and automobile traffic was diverted from one lane on H Street to prioritize bicyclist use. The City has also invested in property acquisition and is planning for a Ridge Trail. Once completed, bicyclists will be able to travel from the north to the south of City limits without encountering automobiles. The City has also spearheaded regional planning efforts for a multi-use trail between Arcata and Eureka.

Arcata's elected officials and City staff are committed to bicyclist safety and comfort, as well as the broader social and environmental goals of bicycle promotion. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan is an example of this forward-thinking governance, as is the Community Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan. City leaders also set positive examples in their own transportation choices. A majority of councilmembers are bicyclists, including the Mayor and Vice-Mayor, both of whom participate in Car Free Day and other bicycle-oriented events.

Arcata is a vibrant university town populated by environmentally conscious people. Bicycle commuting in Arcata is more than ten times the national average. There are bicycle advocacy organizations, clubs, educational events, and social gatherings. Support for trail development is widespread.

Community volunteers and nonprofits have raised thousands of dollars for trail development. According to local polling, a large majority of Arcata voters favor conversion of the abandoned railroad right-of-way to a multi-use trail.

Percentage of arterial streets with dedicated bicycle facilities: 95%

Bicycling education in 75% elementary schools and 50% middle schools

Signature cycling events: Arcata Bike Rodeo; Humboldt State University Criterium; Arcata Community Forest 12-hour races; Kidical Mass kids bike rides; Tour of the Unknown Coast

Some coming bicycling improvements: The City is planning on seeking funding for the Arcata-to-Bracut rails to trails project, developing a Bike Boulevard, establishing more bike parking for city events, farmers' market and the like and developing a cycle track.