Charlotte’s expanding bicycle network: A path to easier, healthier travel
Charlotte’s expanding bicycle network: A path to easier, healthier travel
Have you made a New Year’s resolution to be more active? Why not consider incorporating bicycling into your daily routine?
Charlotte is pedaling forward with its growing bicycle network, making it easier than ever to navigate the Queen City – to work, school and other daily destinations – on two wheels.
Over the past few years, the city has invested in expanding bike lanes, greenways, and shared-use paths to create a safer, more connected network for cyclists.
The benefits go beyond convenience. A robust cycling infrastructure supports healthier lifestyles, reduces traffic congestion, and promotes eco-friendly transportation. For residents and visitors, the growing network offers an opportunity to explore Charlotte in a more active and sustainable way.
How to find and navigate bicycle lanes and greenways in Charlotte
Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply enjoying the outdoors, here’s how to locate and navigate these bike-friendly routes.
- Find the right route
The Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) offers an interactive Charlotte Bike Map online, highlighting bike lanes, shared-use paths, and greenways across the city. Apps like Google Maps and Strava also include cycling-specific directions, making it easy to plan a safe and efficient route. Popular greenways like the Little Sugar Creek Greenway and the Cross Charlotte Trail (XCLT) offer scenic paths that connect parks, neighborhoods, and key destinations. - Understand lane types
Charlotte features various cycling infrastructure, including:
- Dedicated Bike Lanes: Painted lanes for cyclists, typically on busy streets.
- Protected Bike Lanes: Physically separated from car traffic for added safety.
- Shared-Use Paths: Wide paths for pedestrians and cyclists, often along greenways.
Look for signs, pavement markings, and maps along your route to identify these lanes.
- Stay safe and follow rules
Always wear a helmet, use lights at night, and follow traffic laws. Be mindful of pedestrians on shared-use paths and signal your turns for other cyclists and drivers. - Use greenways for recreation and connectivity
Charlotte’s greenways are not just for leisure—they’re a practical way to travel across town while enjoying nature. Popular greenways like McAlpine Creek Greenway or Irwin Creek Greenway provide direct connections to parks, schools, and shopping areas.
With a bit of planning and awareness, Charlotte’s bicycle lanes and greenways can transform your daily commute or weekend adventure into a seamless, enjoyable ride. This is a resolution you can feel great about keeping!
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