Bike & walk reports
Take a look at how we measure biking and walking facilities.
Connectivity metrics
Walk and bike facility completeness on state highways is a measure of available facilities and the level of traffic stress (LTS). Even when sidewalks and bike lanes are available, if the adjacent road conditions create a high-stress environment, people will avoid using them. Level of traffic stress is presented as a range between 1 and 4 with an LTS1 being acceptable to all ages and abilities and an LTS4 being the most stressful for people walking and biking
Baseline (as of 2019)
- Bicyclist LTS 1 or 2 - 100 miles
- Bicyclist facilities (bike lanes) - 60 miles
- Pedestrian sidewalk and LTS 1 or 2 - 670 miles
Safety metrics
These metrics track the number of pedestrian and bicyclist traffic deaths and serious injuries across Washington. It also includes a measure of posted speed limits on state highways in population centers where walking and biking are permitted. Higher speeds result in more severe injuries, especially to people walking and biking. In 2019, most pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities (83Charlotte.Claybrooke@wsdot.wa.gov%) occurred on roads with a posted speed above 25mph.
Baseline (as of 2019)
- Pedestrian fatalities - 107
- Bicyclist fatalities - 9
- Pedestrian serious injuries - 358
- Bicyclist serious injuries - 103
- Miles of state highway in population centers with a posted speed above 25mph - 90
Opportunity metrics
A good transportation system provides access to safe, healthy and active transportation connections for all people. These metrics focus on improvements for historically disadvantaged communities to enable and empower them to address active transportation disparities.
Baseline
- Miles of bicyclist and pedestrian LTS 1 or 2 roads in neighborhoods with a high percentage of black, indigenous and people of color - TBD
- Miles of bicyclist and pedestrian LTS 1 or 2 roads in neighborhoods with a high percentage people living in poverty - TBD
Participation
These metrics focus on mode choice for different types of trips and overall changes in physical activity for better health.
Baseline (as of 2019 unless noted otherwise)
- Percent of trips taken by walking or biking - 12% (2017)
- Percent of people who use active transportation to reach their transit connection - 85%
- Percent of children walking/biking to school - 11.7%
- Percent of adults meeting physical activity recommendations - 57.9%
Slow down on ice and snow.
It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.
Carry chains, practice installing them.
Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.
Pack your winter car kit.
Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.