The much-anticipated U.S. Bicycle Route System is one step closer to becoming a reality, according to sources. The network of connected bike paths across the United States is a numbered system, similar to the United States numbered highways.
Only two routes were completed between 1982 and 2010—one running through North Carolina and Virginia, and another that spans from Illinois to Virginia, running through Kentucky. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials—AASHTO—established a task force in 2003 in charge of expansion for the USBRS. Similar to the US Highways, even-numbered routes run east-west and odd-numbered routes are north-south. The routes that are planned to run through California include Routes 50, 66, 70, 85, 87, 90 and 95.
According to TriplePundit.com, more cyclists than ever have been out, making the demand for the USBRS extremely high. According to Adventure Cycling, “The goal of the U.S. Bicycle Route System is to provide the opportunity for more people to travel by bicycle, especially for medium and long-distance travel.”
Once the system is completed, it should significantly increase California bicycle safety for cyclists of all ages.