Connecting Spring 2023PPPM 438/538 Topics in Bicycle Sisters, Oregon Transportation Marc Schlossberg Professor • Planning, Public Policy and Management Grace Lee Report Assistant • Planning, Public Policy and Management COLLEGE OF DESIGN Acknowledgements The author wishes to acknowledge and thank the following staff for making this project possible: Scott Humpert, Explore Sisters Scott Penzarella, Sisters Trail Alliance Scott Woodford, City of Sisters Community and Development Director Jackson Dumanch, Public Works Project Coordinator, City of Sisters Matthew Martin, Principal Planner, City of Sisters Emme Shoup, Associate Planner, City of Sisters Ronald Tamse, Traffic Engineer (Utrecht, Netherlands) Contents 4 About SCI 4 About SCYP 5 About City of Sisters 6 Course Participants 7 Executive Summary 7 Introduction 8 Street Redesign Ideas 24 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities 37 Mobility Hub Augmentation 40 Recreation from Sisters to Beyond 42 More Bikes for More People in Sisters 44 Community Engagement and Events 56 The (Bike) Future for Sisters Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon About SCI The Sustainable Cities Institute (SCI) 2. Our Urbanism Next Center, which is an applied think tank focusing on focuses on how autonomous vehicles, sustainability and cities through applied e-commerce, and the sharing economy research, teaching, and community will impact the form and function of cities. partnerships. We work across disciplines that match the complexity of cities to In all cases, we share our expertise and address sustainability challenges, from experiences with scholars, policymakers, regional planning to building design community leaders, and project partners. and from enhancing engagement of We further extend our impact via an diverse communities to understanding annual Expert-in-Residence Program, SCI the impacts on municipal budgets from China visiting scholars program, study disruptive technologies and many issues abroad course on redesigning cities for in between. people on bicycle, and through our co- leadership of the Educational Partnerships SCI focuses on sustainability-based for Innovation in Communities Network research and teaching opportunities (EPIC-N), which is transferring SCYP to through two primary efforts: universities and communities across the globe. Our work connects student passion, 1. Our Sustainable City Year Program faculty experience, and community needs (SCYP), a massively scaled university- to produce innovative, tangible solutions community partnership program that for the creation of a sustainable society. matches the resources of the University with one Oregon community each year to help advance that community’s sustainability goals; and About SCYP The Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP) provide students with real-world projects is a yearlong partnership between SCI and to investigate. Students bring energy, a partner in Oregon, in which students enthusiasm, and innovative approaches and faculty in courses from across the to difficult, persistent problems. SCYP’s university collaborate with a public primary value derives from collaborations entity on sustainability and livability that result in on-the-ground impact and projects. SCYP faculty and students expanded conversations for a community work in collaboration with staff from the ready to transition to a more sustainable partner agency through a variety of studio and livable future. projects and service- learning courses to 4 About City of Sisters Located at the foot of the Cascade Mountains in Central Oregon, the city of Sisters offers beautiful natural surroundings, a variety of year-round recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy. The City of Sisters is located near the Three Sisters mountains in Central Oregon. Source: Visit Central Oregon, n.d. | visitcentraloregon.com/ cities/sisters Sisters was a place where Paiute, Warm The townsite of Sisters was platted Springs, and Wasco peoples stopped in 1901, although the town was not during movement across central Oregon. incorporated until 1946. The original The name of Whychus Creek, a tributary townsite for the City was six blocks in size, that runs through town and joins the circumscribed by Adams Street on the Deschutes River just beyond the city north, Larch Street on the east, Cascade limits, comes from a Sahaptin phrase, Street on the south, and Elm Street on “The Place We Cross the Water.” Sisters the west, which represents the downtown became a way station and became core of the City of Sisters north of Cascade accessible once roads were constructed Avenue today. through McKenzie Pass and Santiam Pass in the Cascade Mountain Range. In With Sisters’ strategic location as the the early twentieth century, Sisters was “Gateway to the Cascades,” major a center for sheep and cattle ranching industries have included sheepherding, and later became a focus for the timber cattle ranching, timber production, industry, with numerous mills surrounding and provision of goods and services Sisters and even a mill in town. for travelers. Sisters has capitalized on 5 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon accommodating visitors, initially serving attract people to Sisters as a tourism the transient tradesmen that traveled destination. The economy strengthened, through central Oregon. the population returned, and in 1992, the Sisters School District reopened its high Many people know Sisters for its Western school after 25 years of sending students frontier design theme that derives to Redmond High School. architectural inspiration from the town’s beginnings in the 1880s. However, Sisters The 2021 population in Sisters totaled did not always look this way. When Brooks 3,475 residents, a result of the population Resources developed Black Butte Ranch, doubling every decade since the 1990s. a resort community eight miles west of Sisters continues to serve as a gateway Sisters, it envisioned a plan to help the to the central Oregon region while Sisters downtown core reinvent itself. In also being known for local attractions coordination with the City Council, Brooks including Hoodoo Ski Area and prominent Resources offered loans, forgiveable after community events such as the Sisters 10 years, to businesses who built with a Rodeo, Rhythm and Blues Music Festival, Western theme. From this idea, the City Harvest Faire, the Sisters Outdoor Quilt developed a strong identity that helped Show, and the Sisters Folk Festival. Course Participants Abt, Coby R. Heckman, Ethan P. O'Bryan, Cole M. Amick, Sam W. Heironimus, Anna G. O'Hara, Quinn J. Anderson, Sam T. Herran, Lily P. Poore, Anabelle P. Bartholomew, Abe Z. Hodges, Riley A. Reince-Seibert, Evan W. Bedell, Maya L. Hush, Zella R. Roth, Jacob E. Calkins, Samuel E. Johnston, Alyson J. Russell, Maysen C. Cardoza, Logan Kerr, Stephenie N. Snyder, Olivia D. Colville, Porter J. Kim, Pauline Taylor, Zoe A. Cooper, Kai A. Kranwinkle, Rose X. Trachtenberg, Sam B. Cullop, Ravi J. Krause, Tanner T. Tyler, Sam J. Davis, Claressa A. Lee, Grace E. Valentine-Wilson, Harry J. De Crozuc, Sulwyn C. Markey, Will P. Ward, Kevin F. Dimaculangan, Ysbella Martin, Cam D. Webster, Bryan R. Esbeck, Bella M. Martinez-Smith, Amena B. Wolf, Ernest M. Frost, Cory O. McNamee, George B. Youngblood, Audrey M. Gates, Naomi B. Nguyen, Minh Bashar, Shahinur Gathrid, Aaron A. Noonan, Maya C. Gillespie, Cimmeron F. Haefker, Finn O. Nopp, Elliot U. 6 Introduction Situated in the northwest pocket of norm due to the popularity of Sisters as Deschutes County, Sisters includes varied a regional destination and ‘on the way’ outdoor recreation options, beautiful between central Oregon and the more scenery, and top tier hiking and mountain populous regions to the west. biking trails. Population and housing growth are The city’s thriving downtown is bisected expected to continue over the next by East Cascade Avenue, which bustles decade, putting pressure on Sisters to with economic activity and serves as both accommodate new residents and a throughway to Redmond, Bend, and maintain a high level of community central Oregon. The street is often livability. Sisters Elementary School will congested with vehicular traffic, which soon be moving to join a middle and high keeps speeds slow and makes crossing school on a single campus area on the for most pedestrians relatively easy, if southwest side of town. New housing not slightly uncomfortable. Crossing this developments are occurring throughout primary street by bike, however, is more the entire Sisters community and many difficult, especially for less confident students live in outlying communities in cyclists such as youth and the elderly. the region as well, creating automobile traffic to the school and through the Parallel streets to East Cascade Avenue community during school drop-off and also enjoy robust commercial uses, pick up. contain extensive car parking for the entire downtown region, and run the Because of its small size, travelling within risk of acting as alternative ‘through the city is relatively easy to do by foot, streets’ for motorists trying to avoid East bike, or driving, though there could Cascade. A downtown bypass road to the be more to explicitly support people north of East Cascade Avenue, primarily on bike both in terms of infrastructure for diverting freight trucks from the city connectivity design and in encouraging center, is being planned and developed, its use. And with better support for and will likely reduce truck traffic through cycling, both residents and tourists to the the heart of Sisters, making viewsheds community stand to benefit. Below are of pedestrians and cyclists crossing East some of the key ideas that can help move Cascade Avenue slightly easier, though the community in this direction. congested conditions are likely to be the 7 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Street Redesign Ideas Sisters has relatively quiet streets, flat topography, and close proximity to most community destinations. And yet, as Sisters grows in the future, it must make some purposeful decisions to maintain that high quality of life while welcoming in new residents and visitors. Communities that are overrun by vehicles and safety for cycling, while still undermines basic quality of life for all, accommodating the obvious need for car thus finding ways for as many trips as access. possible, by residents and visitors, to occur on foot or bike while in town, will be Firstly, it is important to have a grand very important going forward. vision of what the priority bicycle Changes to street infrastructure will network should be, while recognizing that inevitably be part of the equation to people on bike ought to have safe and maintain a livable community. Local comfortable facilities on all streets just streets should be reserved mostly as private vehicles are allowed access. for local traffic with speeds low to be Below is one vision for the priority bicycle consistent with the family nature of the network for Sisters (green and blue lines) community. Low vehicle speeds can best with key intersections highlighted in red to be accomplished through street design, draw attention to locations where crossing as opposed to official speed limits. And streets require enhanced designs. For keeping speeds low through design example, raising the entire intersections makes more streets more safe and more at key crossing points on East Cascade comfortable to people of all ages and can be a way to both create a ‘speed table’ abilities on bike. that keeps vehicular speeds low through the commercial area (when there are not Here are a few ideas of street redesign, many vehicles travelling) and marks a key intended to increase the comfort bicycle crossing location. 8 Street Redesign Ideas Below is perhaps the most forward- businesses. There are different ways to thinking redesign idea to the street do this, so the below graphic is just one network: creating a ‘filtered’ street example. In this example, some streets network that reduces vehicular have been turned into one-way travel for connectivity through quieter streets but cars with some segments coming at each maintains such connectivity for people other in those one-way directions. This on bike. This filtered approach keeps approach has the effect of removing some vehicle volumes and speeds low, which streets as continuous for vehicles, but automatically enhances the safety and maintains that continuity for people on comfort for people on bike, while not bike, yet vehicles can still access 100% of denying vehicular access to homes and the properties currently accessible. 9 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Other approaches to street filtering Some of the benefits of street filtering include changing some intersections include: such that there is entry and/or exit for • Slower speeds cyclists only, but not for cars. This can be • Increased cycling comfort accomplished by significantly reducing the • More connected bike network street width at the point of intersection • Improved traffic flow with another street such that only bikes • Connects residents to commercial areas can come in or out (emergency vehicle and essential services access can still be achieved through • Less cut-through traffic in residential such designs, or depending on the street areas grid, parallel streets can continue to • More aesthetically pleasing! provide such access without diminishing response times). For example, it may be The two main risks of pursuing street that some of the streets intersecting East filtering include: Cascade ought to be ‘closed’ to turning • Confusion during initial implementation vehicles (or perhaps exiting vehicles) so • Tension between cyclists and motorists that those cross streets can be prioritized for crossing by people on bike. All the This filtered approach to street design is properties and on-street parking on those best practice internationally to maintain cross streets can still be accessed by cars, livable streets in both commercial but perhaps only through a slight one and residential areas, Sisters’ street block detour. Such approaches can reduce network is a perfect setup for this type of unwanted car volume and speeds on the intervention. streets that ought not to be prioritized for car travel, while still allowing access by car, albeit slightly more indirectly. 10 Street Redesign Ideas More Redesigns Again, Sisters has an easy-to-use street On Elm Street, near Village Green grid and with many existing streets that park, students suggest adding a few have enough existing right of way to visual reminders to all users toward integrate more and better uses out of the acceptable presence of people on what already exists.Combining some bike, including adding bike parking smart tweaks to the right of way can make in a ‘car’ parking space, some street it easier for more people of all ages and sharrow symbols, a reminder sign about abilities to navigate Sisters by bike, reduce yielding to pedestrians, and detectable car volume and speeds where desired, warning pavers on the curb ramp - all and doing both things while still allowing elements designed to support the multi- relatively easy and ubiquitous access to all generational users of this nice city park. destinations by private vehicle as well. One future improvement, not visualized here, would be to actually keep the Here are some additional thoughts and crosswalk at the same grade all the way possible re-designs directly from some across the street, symbolically switching of the student groups’ reports slides, the situation from the sidewalk ‘crossing’ and renderings. These groups did choose the street to the street ‘crossing’ the their focus streets strategically in terms sidewalk. Such a change has two primary of where they think the best value for benefits: the community can be gained through 1) it keeps the sidewalk at grade, some basic street reconfigurations, but which is easier for people in walkers, these types of principles can absolutely wheelchairs, strollers, etc.; and be applied to other areas as well in order 2) the new raised crosswalk acts as a to create a comprehensive and cohesive speed table for vehicles, keeping bicycle transport system throughout speeds down to appropriate levels Sisters. for this residential and park-adjacent street. 11 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon 12 Street Redesign Ideas Larch—Residential Section 13 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Larch—Commercial Section 14 Street Redesign Ideas 15 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon 16 Street Redesign Ideas One student group looked at East amenities. Thinking proactively about this Cascade, adjacent to the school district street prior to new development can help site, with an eye toward the future as that guide the way that site redevelopment site gets redeveloped in ways that will flows into the new circulation system. likely include housing and other public Here are their thoughts. 17 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon 18 Street Redesign Ideas 19 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Other students looked at some streets but have done so in order to create where the right of way may be available continuous, high-quality safe and for expanding infrastructure rather than comfortable bicycle infrastructure for simply repurposing what already exists, all users. 20 Street Redesign Ideas With East Main, students suggest flipping facility. Such a design also brings cyclists the bike lane and the car parking so that closer to adjacent businesses and with the parked cars protect cyclists rather than addition of bike parking (much needed cyclists protecting the parked cars. This in downtown Sisters – even a car parking small switch makes biking much more space or three could be turned into 12- comfortable for more people because it bike parking spaces each) then the link reduces conflicts with cars, and by the between people on bike and stopping at a same token reduces stress for drivers local store can be made much more fluid. by giving cyclists their own separated 21 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Many of the students also noted how biking, all with an eye toward safety, wide many streets were and thought comfort, and access. Here are a few of there could be some more purposeful those street re-design suggestions via a re-allocation of that public right-of-way graphical approach (courtesy of a free on- in order to achieve a more inclusive line tool called Streetmix): approach toward driving, walking, and 22 Student Project Highlights 23 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities A bicycle wayfinding system consists of efficiency, opportunities for expanded comprehensive signage and pavement community branding, possibilities for local markings to guide bicyclists (and often business sponsorship and visibility, and all road users) to their destination along enhancing the overall outdoor experience preferred routes, providing both guidance while travelling within the community. and legitimacy for people traveling by bike. Benefits of comprehensive Below are examples of a range of possible wayfinding systems can include safety bicycle wayfinding enhancements within and security for all road users, reduced Sisters (and beyond). stress and anxiety during trips, increased Branding through Murals, Artwork, and Possible Merchandise Sisters already has some fantastic public of Oregon Scenic Bikeways could look art and murals; promoting some of the like, enticing future riders, bringing joy already existing scenic bicycle routes to those who have already used some of that interconnect with Sisters is a way to these routes, and adding general joy to all simultaneously elevate those rides and by showing just how much natural beauty create more public art. The following is exists in and around Sisters. an example of what such a public mural 24 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities Additional mural or even poster art that nature, Sisters, and cycling can be found supports the interconnectedness with in these examples: 25 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Signs Wayfinding signs provide an opportunity Here are a variety of wayfinding signs to be both functional and visually additive that can integrate a unified visual theme to the Sisters landscape. Wayfinding is across locations in order to provide important – especially to new users on the needed information explicitly, as well infrastructure – as it helps guide cyclists as implicitly just by their recognizable to the destinations, they seek along the look. Signs can range from informational routes that are either most efficient, most kiosks at strategic central locations, comfortable, or both. When designed signs at trailheads that offer a bit more well, wayfinding can also contribute to information about the route itself a community’s branding identity while (with a QR code to link to more on-line limiting the visual pollution that too information), and smaller signposts that many signs often brings to a streetscape. alert users that they are on the right path, similar to the use of blue diamonds in the forest to demarcate hiking/cross-country skiing routes. 26 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities Here are two examples of the small post markings on the pavement itself, which version in both in-town and out-of-town communicates to all road users that a settings, as well as some wayfinding route is a preferred bike route as well. 27 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Here is one group’s suggestion for sign placements along the longer rides from Sisters to beyond: 28 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities 29 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Safe Routes to School Many students focused specifically on by providing support to kids who are ways that Sisters could be safer and more moving about their community in this comfortable for youth on bikes. Making space efficient, low carbon, independent it easier and more comfortable for more way. For example, murals along key routes kids to bike to school would enhance their (on the pavement or on signs or building physical activity and social engagement, facades) could be customized to make plus allow them more independence clear what the priority ‘safe routes’ are. of exploration of the entire community The map and images below are an idea during non-school hours. of both a comprehensive safe routes to school network along with some key Focusing on safe routes to school offers mural locations and some mural examples the opportunity to have some fun as well that fuse fun and nature together. 30 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities For children that are coming from outside so that bicycle transport is unnecessary. of Sisters, some students gave thought to Moreover, by designating these sites at ‘park and ride’ areas (see routes below), the edge of Sisters, it could reduce the where parents could drop their children vehicular traffic through the community off at sites on the edge of Sisters and allow that are made exclusively for school trips. their kids to then bike to school just like Reducing vehicular traffic makes it safer local kids could. Creating safe storage of for all kids getting to school by foot or bikes at this drop-off/pick-up location bike. 31 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon 32 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities Students also suggested partnering organizations to promote various with Bikes4kidz and both statewide activities to help kids get access to bikes and national Safe Routes to Schools and to use them in fun ways. 33 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Better Connections Between Website Trail System Map and Location Information Building on the work the Sisters Trail A consistent theme across student groups Alliance has already put in, trail system was the need for more user-friendly maps will show trail systems and information about cycling routes on- appropriate usage forms at each trailhead. line and in-person and to customize this For example, trail options at Peterson information to a range of abilities so that Ridge and users (hikers, mountain bikers, each cyclist can find opportunities that equestrian, etc.). We suggest that these match their comfort level for moving maps include the colorway and icon about by bike in and out of Sisters. Many system they represent in line with the student groups also strongly advocated hierarchy maps to create a cohesive for the inclusion of QR codes throughout system. We also recommend that bike community-based materials (including racks be placed near trailheads so that murals) to help direct more people to residents and tourists have the option to these on-line resources. bike to hiking opportunities. Bike racks should be designed to mitigate theft (i.e. Student groups felt a better hierarchy front tire and frame should be able to be of information on-line related to cycle attached to the locking post with a u-lock streets and routes would be beneficial to and the posts themselves should not be all users—both residents and visitors alike. easy to remove). Finally. QR codes could That hierarchy includes the following: be added so that users are able to scan and download a map of the trail to have Directory Map with them. This map would show routes to get to outdoor destinations and key trail Route Headers headers. Each destination or trail system These signs would be located at the should have a unique icon and colorway starting point for major routes that are that would be consistent across signage, not associated with broader trail systems. guiding riders from the hierarchy map to They represent a “passing off” of the their location of choice. We recommend hierarchy map directions to the route adding two of these maps – one at the itself. The hierarchy map gets riders from upcoming East Mobility Hub and another the hub to the starting point and the route at Village Green Park. Also, we recommend headers mark where riders would look at a adding a radial overlay to the map where new map if their recreation destination of each circle represents a mile out from choice is a trail/route itself. the center of town to make it easy to conceptualize the destinations within a Directional Markers/Posts distance someone visiting is willing to ride. These wooden posts (depicted above) can guide users once they’re on the route, indicating continuation and changes in direction as necessary to keep users on 34 Wayfinding and Communication Opportunities route. They can feature a QR code to a 3. Distance Metrics: We recommend map or other on-line information to be listing distance on route headers and easily accessible to tourists, but visually key directional marking signs. Distance unobstructive for residents. They also can should be conveyed as both mileage have the route icon and coordinating color and estimated time to destination to stripe on each side to help users recognize help riders accurately conceptualize directional cues as they’re riding. Adding how long and how far they can expect a “hitching post” style bike lock-up design to be riding. for the markers in town can reenforce community branding and expand bicycle QR Codes parking as desired. Care should be taken We recommend adding QR codes to each in implementing this aspect to (a) consider stage of signage that will direct users to a if the post locations match where people downloadable map of the system of routes would want to park and (b) if bikes would in and around Sisters. The map should obstruct the post for other users on the be downloadable so that it can still be road, particularly in pedestrian-heavy accessed when users are outside of cell locations. service range. While in cell service, the QR codes can be made specific to each sign/ Sign Features post so that a “you are here” marker will 1. Icons: A unique image and color show up corresponding with where the should be assigned to each major code was scanned. There is also potential route/destination in and around for the map and signpost QR-code system Sisters. Having a shape and color to be integrated with popular cycling apps associated with each destination so that post locations are identified on makes the signage for each route easy maps within those apps and riders know to identify at a glance while riding, when to expect wayfinding support. The while still being identifiable by shape code below takes users to a sample map for colorblind individuals. Some that the signage QR codes could direct to. routes/destinations we recommend “iconizing” are the Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway, Three Creek Lake, and Black Butte. 2. Elevation gain: A pictorial demonstration of general elevation gain and patterns for a ride are a valuable tool for people accessing the difficulty of a ride they are considering. This helps them make informed decisions about the trails they select and how to prepare for them. 35 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Other Ideas: Logos 36 Student Project Highlights Mobility Hub Augmentation A mobility hub is a central location ‘Park and Play.” In such a future, Sisters that integrates different modes of would be a logical destination for multi- transportation into one place, so residents day stays for visitors to access amenities and visitors have a wider variety of within Sisters, as well as all of the beautiful transportation options to suit their needs. resources beyond the city limits. Ideally, This includes bicycle, pedestrian, public visitors can simply arrive at the Mobility transit, and car infrastructure. A tourist Hub (side note: Sisters should come up could park their car at a mobility hub and with a catchy name of this location and continue their trip on a bike or bus, or a certainly not ‘East Portal’ since it is on traveler could park and explore the area the west side)), and either park their car on foot. or get off the regional bus and be able to be car-free for the entire extent of their The City of Sisters is currently in the visit, whether they are staying in town the process of developing a mobility hub on whole time or launching off from Sisters the westside of the city. This hub will be for a multi-day bike and/or backpacking in a section of land currently operated by excursion. Visitors ought to be able to the Forest Service, known as East Portal. park their vehicle, including charging their In addition to a regional bus stop and electric car (or bike), take local bikeshare private car facilities, the Transportation transport to access Sisters, park their own System Plan of Sisters aims to incorporate bike securely, have an enjoyable place to bike and pedestrian facilities into East congregate as they begin/end a journey or Portal as well, which is the focus of our meet friends for a weekend together, and recommendations. feel like they are in a memorable gateway to fun and adventure inside and out of A primary focus of the Mobility Hub should Sisters. The Mobility Hub ought to be both really be the visitors/tourists to Sisters, functional and a place where memorable with an eye toward creating a culture of pictures are taken to mark a visit. 37 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon There are several opportunities to Avenue. In addition, adding covered bike improve and incorporate bike access racks would be helpful to ensure bikes are into the East Portal, including a range of not wet or snowy. cycling infrastructure in order to make the experience of biking easier for the Long-term parking can be achieved user. Students propose including many through bike lockers. We propose that elements that will support cycling such as a minimum of six lockers be installed short- and long-term parking, wayfinding, to allow for secure storage of bikes for repairs stations, and accessible crossing those who want to secure the gear on points. their bikes. The lockers would be located at the central cycling area. The lockers Parking would be covered to protect bikes from Bicycle parking is essential to make the elements but offer panels so that the cycling safe and easy, by ensuring that content of the lockers can be seen from there is somewhere to park your bike the outside. The lockers are about 4 feet in when you reach your destination, and that height and can store one or two bikes per it will still be there when you return. In locker, making them ideal for couples or addition to typical around town cycling. friends. Sisters is the endpoint between various recreational sites. This means that many Repair Stations cyclists on longer journeys arrive in Sisters A bike repair station is an important with camping equipment, clothes, and resource for the mobility hub. They are bike tools attached to their bikes. Bike compact facilities that are easy to use lockers could make it smoother and easier and provide an assortment of tools and to stop and explore the city without the a bike pump that allow cyclists to make need to worry about their belongings. repairs to their bike as needed. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes. The first element to consider is both We recommend that the city invests in a long- and short-term bicycle parking. durable, long lasting repair station that is Short-term parking is achieved through covered from the elements to ensure the bike racks. These can come in a variety longevity of the tool. The city should issue of shapes and sizes, but we recommend repairs to the bike repair station semi- a ‘horseshoe’ shape to give a nod to regularly to ensure that parts have not the western heritage of Sisters, while been stripped and still functional. maintaining functionality. We propose a minimum of 20 bike racks be installed; 10 Bathrooms at the central cycling area and 10 adjacent ADA-accessible bathrooms and water refill to the on-street parking on Cascade stations are a must at the mobility hub. 38 Mobility Hub Augmentation Accessible Crossing Points which require heavy effort to get to the Accessible crossing points will ensure apex. Examples of tunnels in nearby that there are sufficient paths to connect Sun Rover adds value to the idea here the cycling infrastructure to the entry as it helps boost a regional identity points and will help make entering and or approach/support for cycling in exiting the hub as easy as possible. central Oregon. A tunnel can also be For example, Highway US 20 cuts right an additional mural art opportunity as through the heart of the City of Sisters, well. Tunnels also require less space creating a significant barrier that hinders than overpasses. the seamless flow for pedestrians and • Median refuge island—Constructing cyclists. The absence of designated a raised island in the middle of the crossing specifically designed for non- highway gives pedestrians and cyclists motorized road users makes crossing a protected space to wait for a pause in the highway and unnecessary risk. traffic, while simplifying the crossing. Pedestrians and cyclists must navigate Crossing a single lane at a time creates through fast-moving car traffic, which not a significant safety improvement only jeopardizes their safety but disrupts compared to the crossing of two lanes. the flow of traffic. The lack of safe and It is critical that in this design, that the accessible crossing points on Highway 20 refuge island be a bit wider than that poses constant danger for pedestrians, of a typical bike so that someone their discouraging actives modes of bike across the street can safely wait transportation and impeding connectivity in the median with their bike. It is likely within the city. Addressing the issue by that more than one person at a time establishing designated pedestrian and would be crossing, so the design should cyclist crossings is crucial to ensure the comfortably accommodate 3-5 people safety and mobility of all commuters at a time. within Sisters. Below is a list of common • Painted crosswalk with signage— accessible crossing points used around Marking a designated pedestrian the United States to allow pedestrians crosswalk with proper signage, zebra and cyclists to cross roads with significant markings, to alert drivers and prioritize traffic. The options are ranked in order of pedestrian safety. Typically, this is the preference for the safety of pedestrians most cost-effective option. and cyclists: • Painted crosswalk with flashing • Underpass (tunnel)—Creating a tunnel lights—Similar to a painted crosswalk or underpass beneath the highway, with signage, except the addition of allowing pedestrians and cyclists motion sensors flashing lights to create to cross without interfering with additional safety especially at night. In motorized vehicular traffic. Tunnels are general, adding flashing beacons are a better than overpasses as they allow symbol of a poor intersection design, the downhill momentum for cyclists to not to mention the light pollution that carry them through to the uphill of the such lights add to the environment. other side, as opposed to overpasses, 39 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Recreation from Sisters to Beyond 40 Recreation from Sisters to Beyond 41 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon More Bikes for More People in Sisters Sisters has the opportunity to expand • Docked vs Dockless its economic and tourist opportunities Whether or not the bikes are meant by providing accessible transportation to be locked up to a parking hub at options within the city, which could help the beginning and end of each trip address traffic congestion and promote a determines the flexibility of commutes healthier lifestyle. for users. Dockless systems go point to point, more like owning a personal One of Sisters’ priorities is making the bike. However, dockless bikes can add town more bikeable. Plans are in place to barriers to use, and rely on strategic create a multi-modal Mobility Hub, which planning to have enough bike parking at will connect the surrounding region to all destinations. Sisters, as well as improving residential streets for cycling. Sisters is a quickly • Electric vs Non-Electric growing town that is looking to make Electric bikes make getting around biking easier and more pleasant-a bike much easier. For example, a bike trip to share program could be the next step. the grocery store is now much shorter and less physically draining, increasing Bikeshare in Sisters accessibility for elderly or those with The unique opportunity of bike share in physical limitations. However, the Sisters, a tourist town already looking clear trade-offs of electric bikes is cost, to improve its bikeability, is that a bike which is higher than traditional models, share program will bring those benefits to including the logistics of charging. tourists. • Branded vs Non-Branded In designing a bike share system, there Cohesively branded bikes can add to are many choices that impact the end- the brand of a town. For Sisters, that product. Below are five choices that all kind of branding is integral to the have a significant effect on program town’s aesthetics. However, an overly or experience/success, and what each choice poorly branded system can not only be prioritizes. aesthetically unpleasing but impact the surrounding western theme appeal. • Formal vs Informal Formal bikeshare is centralized and • Tourists vs Residents uses a standard process for checking Choosing whether to cater to tourists out and returning city bikes. It reduces or residents can mean adjusting the the risk of loss or theft, while providing location of parking docks, pricing a cohesive experience for users and plans, and methods for checking out increases time between repairs. a bike. Usually, providing a robust However, maintaining a formal system system for residents will create a solid will usually be more expensive, and base for adding extra amenities for an informal system can be easily tourists. Proper planning and consulting customized for the specific needs of an surround fundamental needs and area. uses for city bikes will provide a solid structure for the program. 42 Bike Subsidy Program In terms of tourism, the program would Local officials will make a contractual be an effective way for the City of Sisters arrangement with a bike manufacturing and their local economy to contribute company to create Sisters city-branded in reducing their carbon footprint. Not bicycles. These bicycles should have a only is this an additional amenity that distinguished color and labeling that businesses can provide for their guests reflects the unique cultural aesthetic at an affordable cost, but it will further of Sisters. The city will then put out a distinguish Sisters as an environmentally submission form to the public in which conscious city while benefiting public business owners can submit a purchase health and reducing air and noise request for x-amount of subsidized bikes. pollution. Those requests will be used to order the proper amount of desired bikes through Risks the manufacturing company. Such a A bike subsidy program is viable because process will ensure that there will always it assumes low risk. One of the tricky be proper overhead to cover the cost of elements of a public bike-share program the bikes. in smaller cities is attaining enough demand to sustain proper maintenance The subsidy will have a targeted benefit of the program. In this case, there are to local businesses who participate in no program upkeep costs because Sisters’ hospitality and tourism industry: each business will be purchasing and Hotels, BandBs, Airbnbs, VRBOs, etc. It taking ownership of the bikes. The will be an option for an additional amenity demand for bikes will then spawn out that reflects the Sisters’ outdoorsy of their marketing techniques toward lifestyle at an affordable cost. Sisters’ independent customers. branded bikes have the potential to become a unique association for tourists, Additionally, the proposed program would in which people will prefer to stay in town allow Sisters to start the process toward where they can ride the trendy city bikes bike identity branding before committing across town. to the idea and costs of an entire city bike share program. Tourists would have During initial implementation, there access to bikes and the program would can be an inaugural push where local receive free advertising every time a businesses have the option to submit Sisters bike would be ridden across town. bike requests to the city by a deadline, in The subsidy program would allow the city order to be a participant in a pilot program to test the demand for a city bike program of Sister branded bikes. Following the and increase recognition and demand inaugural push, businesses can submit throughout the duration of the subsidy. new requests at any point moving forward This would, in turn, lead to an easier to be processed by the city. Also, Sisters implementation process if Sisters decides may hold an inaugural city event in hopes to take the step to invest into a city-wide of bringing positive media attention to the bikeshare program in the coming years. program. Businesses participating could also gain advertisements by joining the celebration of the program. 43 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Community Engagement and Events The Sisters Circuit: New Sisters-Based Challenge One of the most interesting proposed Students saw these circuits as a flexible events is the creation and marketing of a opportunity that can be formally series of longer-distanced bike rides that organized and put on every other month begin and end in Sisters, called The Sisters to create an annual series, can be focused Circuit. This series of rides takes riders on the shoulder seasons when tourism to different destinations and on different is lower, or can just exist as stand-alone cycling terrains, giving participants access routes that individuals can ‘acquire’ at to all the surrounding beauty and also their own place. Routes can be branded challenges riders to experience different and that branding can translate into local type of cycling environments. merchandise (shirt and tote bag examples are below). Here are example flyers and routes for six circuits. 44 Community Engagements and Events According to the student group, the overall Environmental Awareness purpose of “the Sisters Circuit” includes: Sisters and its surroundings offer breathtaking natural landscapes. The Promote Cycling bike circuit will highlight the scenic The bike circuit will encourage people trails, mountain buttes, and countryside, of all ages and skill levels to engage in promoting the region as a premier cycling cycling and will provide an accessible destination. By immersing participants in and enjoyable means for individuals to the environment, we hope to encourage improve their fitness levels, enhance them to opt for more sustainable modes cardiovascular health, and strengthen of transportation to reduce their carbon muscles, promoting it as a healthy and footprint and help combat climate change sustainable means of transportation and to protect the environment. recreation. Fundraising Boost Tourism A percentage of participant entry fees By hosting a series of bike races, Sisters (if this model is used) can be allocated will attract cyclists from near and far, towards a trail or transportation fund contributing to increased tourism to help promote widespread cycling. By and the local economy. Participants investing in these initiatives, the project and spectators will explore the town's aims to create lasting benefits for the amenities, accommodations, restaurants, community and foster a cycling culture and shops, resulting in a positive beyond the events themselves. economic impact. Sisters experiences high volumes of tourism during the summer Education months already, so having a race every The circuit can incorporate educational other month will help to broaden this initiatives to enhance participants' window and attract more regular tourists. knowledge and skills related to cycling. It may include workshops on bike Community Engagement maintenance, bike and helmet fittings, The bike circuit will foster community and nutrition for cyclists. Additionally, engagement by involving local businesses, the circuit may collaborate with local organizations, and residents. It will schools to implement cycling education provide opportunities for volunteering, programs, teaching students about road sponsorship, and collaboration, creating safety, environmental awareness, and a sense of pride and unity among the benefits of active transportation. community members. By providing educational resources and opportunities, the circuit seeks to empower participants with the tools they need to become confident and responsible cyclists. 45 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Here are the actual routes that students identified: 46 Community Engagements and Events 47 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Fun merchandise that local businesses/ excursions (“collect all six!”) and help Sisters Chamber of Commerce can help spread Sisters as a global destination organize, standardize, and produce through this type of ‘active tourism’ would help participants remember their marketing. 48 Community Engagements and Events Students also suggest special recognition in a single year. In this case, students be given to those completing the circuit designed a belt buckle with completion in a single year similar to the way children year as the memento, both honoring may get passport stamps for visiting the achievement and encouraging different national parks or adults can participants to complete the circuit year complete their own passport book for after year to collect their annual prizes! visiting multiple McMenamins brewpubs 49 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Cascade Community Celebration Students also propose to add festivals free of cars, with ample access for people and integrate various bicycle elements to to explore the community in a comfortable these new festivals on Cascade Avenue and inviting space. The celebration would that uses the entire street for the benefit ideally be hosted in the fall or spring to of pedestrians and cyclists, especially create the opportunity for the community when the new bypass is completed making to congregate in the non-summer months. it easier to transform what is currently To do this, we would change the route of the main highway through town from a automobile access using the bypass that place for vehicles to a celebratory place is planned in Sisters. Redirecting traffic to for people . This festival would create a continue their routes along parallel streets vibrant atmosphere in the downtown core, would be similar to how Sisters opens up the roadway for the annual quilt show. 50 Community Engagements and Events We envision a festival that combines the Mobility Hub Grand Opening charm of a street fair with the excitement Throughout this event, residents will of live music, interactive bike obstacle have the opportunity to explore the courses, and delicious local cuisine. newly redesigned space and talk with This will create an inviting atmosphere, professionals about all its uses. Staff from attracting residents and tourists to different partnering organizations will be explore the vibrant tapestry of the able to guide residents on proper uses and community and reveal how the area can how to connect with other local amenities be navigated without a car and car traffic. to make this space more comfortable for all. Hosting a festival of this nature provides a platform for local vendors to showcase It is also not a celebration without their goods and services and fosters a vendors, so collaboration with local food strong sense of community. From artisans spots in Sisters along with the bike shops and craftspeople to small businesses and in the community creates the opportunity entrepreneurs, we want to provide a lively to support the local economy and connect and bustling marketplace in the street people with new places and products. that connects them with customers. Collaboration with businesses could also create the chance to host a raffle as an Furthermore, the festival can serve as a attraction, and give away gift cards to catalyst for economic growth, stimulating local businesses or other sought-after increased foot traffic and encouraging merchandise. In addition, organizing residents to discover new businesses and live music will add to the ambiance and establishments in the city. We believe that provide the opportunity to showcase local empowering local vendors through events musicians and talents from within the like the Cascade Community Celebration Sisters schools and local community. will contribute to the overall prosperity and vitality of the Sisters community. 51 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon 52 Community Engagements and Events In addition to the ability to walk around The guided bike tours could also focus the new space, citizens could also go on on the scenic routes available on the community bike rides led by volunteers. outskirts of Sisters starting at the mobility These routes will start at the new hub and hub. Hosting a guided ride provides the will help individuals learn how to navigate opportunity to navigate the numerous to favorite destinations while providing trails in a group setting, thus increasing the chance to cycle with neighbors around the comfort of riding for novices. This the city. These community rides would be event could also become reoccurring, organized by distance, age, and location, where each year the city comes together making routes that are accessible and to take part in different community bike exciting for a range of individuals. Bike rides to see the scenic views of Sisters. route tours that go through different parts This is also an opportunity to partner of town can help riders perceive what with The Sisters Trail Alliance to design it might look like to incorporate cycling different scenic bike tours that start at the into their everyday day. Furthermore, a mobility hub and range across different brochure at the mobility hub could make levels of difficulty. Hosting tours that these tour routes available after the event. showcase both community created routes Promoting bike tours that showcase city and the awesome scenic tours that have art, shops, and the beautiful scenery could been created by other student groups make the mobility hub a local favorite. would make the mobility hub event exciting for everyone. 53 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon Other Events Students had ideas for additional events festival was brought to Eugene in 2023 that could exist as stand alone activities or and was quite a success, particularly as ones that could be integrated into existing the local student organizers invited local events throughout the year in Sisters given film submissions to be paired with the the annual event calendar is already quite official festival films – this is a great way to robust. get people of all ages (especially youth) to combine their artistic abilities with cycling One idea is to bring the Bike Film Festival and their larger community. The Eugene to Sisters and invite the Central Oregon event also included a community ride that region to come and engage. This film ended at the film event itself, which was quite fun and celebratory. 54 Community Engagements and Events Give Kids a Challenge with a Bike Rodeo Bike Rodeos are essentially pop-up design examples, but the key thing to bicycle obstacle courses that can be remember is that they are loads of fun for created adjacent to any community event, kids and can be paired with prizes when giving children a fun challenge and also certain age-appropriate challenges or encouraging their continued bicycle skill skills are met. Bicycle Rodeos can also be development. There are many on-line paired with bicycle expos where kids and adults can try different styles of bikes. 55 Spring 2023 Connecting Sisters, Oregon The (Bike) Future for Sisters Sisters can connect both residents and many benefits those plans would bring, visitors alike to the outdoors like they both in economic impacts and through never have been before. This will make increased livability. Through a relatively the town one of the greatest for biking in small amount of effort and money, Sisters the state and will help it continue being can achieve something truly unique and a destination for outdoor recreation and transformative that would make the city bicycle tourism. Our plan details the stand out not only in the region but the different options Sisters could pursue nation while simultaneously building a to increase bicycle access, and the more equitable city. 56