DC plans to build several streetcar (or light rail) lines in the city, the first in Anacostia. The city is also going to lay down track on H Street NE in preparation for a streetcar to run on that road. Not to be outdone, Arlington and Fairfax have decided to build their own streetcar on Columbia Pike. I've discussed some of the issues with streetcars, as they pertain to bikes, before. Despite desires by some to see other methods of transit or elevated systems, it doesn't seem any jurisdiction in the area has an interest in using an untested technology.
The Columbia Pike line could be a real benefit. It would intersect with the W&OD and Four Mile Run Trails at Four Mile Run and the new Route 50 Trail. Thus, it could provide a way - other than driving - for casual users to get to the trails. But only if space is provided on the cars for bikes - which is often not, but not always. [it would be especially great if a grade separated crossing at W&OD and Columbia Pike could come out of this project]
On the other hand, Columbia Pike is a critical bike access route and tracks in the road could preclude its use.
I generally tend to think that the "Share the Road" philosophy is a two-way street such that cyclists need to be willing to share the road too - and the pike transit plan does involve bike lanes along most of Columbia Pike (except in "activity centers" where high pedestrian activity should slow traffic enough to make bike lanes unnecessary) so it might be a net win for cyclists. [The picture shows the streetcar with a bike lane on the outside and a bike path farther out]
I think rather than fighting streetcars (a losing fight, IMO), bike advocates should fight for streetcars, and streets, that are safe for and welcoming of, bikes.
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