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Neighborhood and recreational cyclists are usually willing to change their routes for safety considerations, and are less willing than commuter cyclists to compete with automobile traffic, preferring instead to operate in specially designated bicycle facilities. Commuter cyclists, whose expertise is usually greater, prefer the most expeditious and directo route, and are therefore more willing to share space on the roadways with motor vehicles. Usaqe Consideration In addition to safety and design considerations, a number of factors combine to determine the attractiveness of cycling in San Marcos. Some of these include: 1. Continuity - A bikeway system, as with any transportation system, must be continuous. A barrier to bicycle travel at a single point may discourage use of miles of otherwise excellent bike routes. San Marcos contains a number of such barriers including major highways and intersections, railroad tracks and creeks. Special design solutions are often required to overcome these barriers. 2. Maintenance - Poorly maintained bikeways are often a deterrent to bicycle travel and pose serious safety problems for the cyclist. Cyclists must be assured that designated bikeways will be kept free of glass, gravel, dirt, potholes, and other debris, and clear of overhanging branches, etc. 3. Parking Facilities - Even with the best of bikeway systems, many riders are discouraged by the lack of secure parking facilities at their destinations. Both the type of facility provided ( bike racks, lockers, etc. ) and its location can be critical. Bicycle facilities should be available near transit stops and should be located in conspicuous places adjacent to but not crossing pedestrian access to buildings. 4. Public information/promotion - The success of a bikeway system can be enhanced considerably by making the public aware of the system -5-