FAQs
Frequently Asked Project Questions
Why is this project being constructed?
The Ford and Jackson protected bike lane project was identified in both the 2020 Transportation Master Plan (Tier 2 priority) and 2023 Pedestrian and Bike Plan (Tier 1 priority). These plans included extensive public engagement through public meetings, online ideas maps, and City Council hearings. Council allocated funding via the 2024 budget process.
A common theme from residents was the desire for more separation between bikes and vehicles. Protected bike lanes increase ridership for all users—women, families, and less confident cyclists—by providing physical separation, clear intersection markings, and maintainable infrastructure.
When is construction happening?
Construction is expected to begin in Fall/Winter 2025 and continue into early 2026. The contractor will notify residents along both streets when work is scheduled for specific blocks.
How has the City gathered public feedback?
The project began in May 2024 with mailers sent to property owners along both streets. Two public meetings were held (June 2024 and December 2024) with 13 and 25 attendees, advertised via the Weekly Update, social media, and corridor signage. Staff also contacted property owners directly about parking changes and ADA ramp construction.
A third meeting will be held once a contractor is hired, focusing on construction schedule and impacts. This meeting will not revisit project design decisions.
What is a protected bike lane?
Protected (or separated) bike lanes are designed for people of all ages and abilities. They are separated from vehicle traffic with a buffer and a vertical element such as a curb or flexible delineators. Federal Highway Administration studies show that converting to protected bike lanes can reduce bike–vehicle crashes by more than 50%.
For this project, the vertical element will be a concrete curb with flexible delineators to improve driver awareness.
What will the street look like after construction?
The full 100% plans are available under the “Documents” tab. The proposed cross sections are on page 7:
- Ford Street: 5-foot bike lane, 5-foot buffer, two 11-foot travel lanes.
- Jackson Street: 4.5-foot bike lane, 4.5-foot buffer, two 10.5-foot travel lanes.
Will Ford and Jackson be reduced to one lane?
Ford Street will remain two lanes. Jackson Street will be two lanes except between 15th and 18th, where it will narrow to a single lane—matching Ford Street north of 15th. At 17th and Jackson, a 12-foot shared bus/bike lane will allow RTD and Ore Cart vehicles to stop without blocking traffic. This design also shortens pedestrian crossing distances near a flashing crosswalk beacon installed after a past fatality.
How will the bike lane and street be maintained?
Streets or Parks staff will maintain the bike lanes. The design accommodates City equipment for sweeping and plowing.
Will on-street parking be removed?
Yes. About 84 spaces will be removed on Ford and 37 on Jackson. Replacement parking will be built behind the curb on Ford between 18th and 19th where homes lack alley or driveway access.
Parking counts in 2024 showed low utilization, with most blocks having no parked vehicles. The few high-use areas were near Safeway (Ford) and between 20th and 22nd (Jackson).
Existing spaces are only 6 feet wide (less than the 8 feet required), causing mirrors to extend into travel lanes. Parking remains available on side streets, with some subject to permit regulations near Golden High School.
How will trash service be provided?
The City’s hauler is required to use alleys whenever possible. If pickup must occur on Ford Street, the bike lane buffer is designed to hold trash cans without blocking the lane.
Will the project address speeding?
Yes. The speed limit on Ford and Jackson between 24th and 14th will be lowered from 30 mph to 25 mph. Combined with lane narrowing to 11 feet, this change aligns with other residential corridors in Golden. Research shows lower speed limits reduce both the frequency and severity of crashes. Enforcement by Golden Police, plus the street redesign, should help reduce speeding.
