Do you want safer routes for bicycling in Baton Rouge?

There is a way, but we have to demonstrate support for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan's (BPMP) implementation. 

That's where you come in!

The Plan has been updated and achieved approval in July 2025. The updated plan includes four phases.

Phase 0, below, includes all existing facilities as of September 2024.

 

 

 

 

Phase 1 includes programmed, funded, or in-construction projects as of September 2025. BREC's Freedom Heritage Trail that connects Memorial Stadium to Scotlandville Parkway Park is a terrific example of a Phase 1 project. The map below illustrates Phase 0 and Phase 1 projects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phase 2 includes projects that are easily implementable and are slated for completion within 10 years. Most of these projects are "wayfinding" routes, that is, signage on low-volume, low-speed neighborhood streets away from busy streets and roads. These projects could easily be accomplished within 5 years.

 

 

The map below illustrates Phases 0, 1, and 2 projects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phase 3 projects require more expense, more planning, and - in many cases - changing existing roadway configurations for adding protected bike lanes, side paths separated from the roadway, and bike trails completely off roadways like Ward Creek and the Dawson Creek Trail behind Pennington.

Given the size and complexity of these Phase 3 projects, many but not all are considered "vision" projects.

The map below illustrates all four phases.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have a good start on an Active Transportation Network (ATN) in East Baton Rouge Parish. Within two years, it will be possible to ride from one end of the parish to the other largely on separated trails - the Levee Trail, the Freedom Heritage Trail, and the Scotlandville Parkway Park Trails. By incorporating the Phase 2 wayfinding routes, we can significantly expand the ATN to the east and southeast.

But . . . we need to demonstrate that there is support for expanding the ATN by implementing the Bicycle + Pedestrian Master Plan. 

The plan is there.

There is support for the Plan on the Metro Council.

Some money is available to kick-start Phase 2, if we can show there is support for the Plan.

Help us all ride easier and safer by showing your support for the Plan!