Bicycle Friendly Communities

Summit County, CO | Bronze Level

Recent bicycling investment: Summit County completed several projects in 2011 at an overall cost of 1.4 million dollars. This including the construction of approximately 2 miles of grade separated pathway, and approximately 1.5 miles of 4-ft climbing lane on a narrow, winding road. These projects were the final phases in the County's ultimate goal to complete the recpath circle around Dillon Reservoir. The County also completed reconstruction of approximately 1 mile of recpath that included colored pavement to increase visibility in a location where the path is at-grade next to a road.

Bicycling highlights: Summit County, Colorado known as one of the nation's "highest playgrounds", and in order to preserve its culture, charm, history, natural features and place, steps have been taken to focus on community access and growth patterns that support a growing, more economically diverse range of population.
The 55-mile Summit County Recreational Pathway System, a grade-separated, paved bicycle and pedestrian pathway that links communities throughout Summit County (Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Copper), and ultimately Eagle County and Glenwood Springs, provides an incredible recreational experience and also serves as a non-motorized commuting option between communities. Summit County also has world class mountain biking trails.

Percentage of arterial streets with dedicated bicycle facilities: 75%

Bicycling education in 100% middle schools

Signature cycling events: Pro Cycling Challenge, Copper Triangle Triple By-Pass, Children's Hospital Courage Classic, Circle the Summit/ Bob Guthrie Memorial Ride

Some coming bicycling improvements: Summit County Government will invest in three more significant capital projects. Two of the projects will entail the reconstruction of 4,000 linear feet to include the removal and replacement of asphalt, full depth patching and new asphalt overlay. The reconstruction will be designed in accordance with the guidelines and standards noted in the Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The planning department is working in a small sub-division (Summit Cove) to create safe routes to school for Summit Cove Elementary.