How to Be Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 17, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner is responsible for providing safe, convenient, and efficient transportation options for those who choose to walk or bike. By developing and implementing plans that include infrastructure improvements, such as improved roadways, better lighting and signage, and dedicated bike lanes, they help to create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists while also reducing congestion and air pollution. Furthermore, the planner is also responsible for encouraging active transportation as an alternative to driving, thus promoting public health, reducing energy consumption, and creating economic benefits in the community.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner is to obtain a bachelor's degree in urban planning, civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related field.
Gain Experience. Many employers prefer candidates who have experience in either transportation planning or urban planning. You can gain this experience by completing an internship or working part-time as a research assistant.
Obtain Certification. You may also wish to pursue a certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). This certification can help demonstrate your competence in the field and increase your job opportunities.
Get Licensed. Depending on your state, you may need to obtain a professional license in order to practice as a Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner. Requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to check the requirements for your state.
Take Continuing Education Courses. Continuing education courses can help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the field. Many states also require continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification or license.

The need for skilled and competent pedestrian and bicycle transportation planners has grown significantly due to the increasing number of people utilizing these methods of transportation. This demand for skilled professionals has been fueled by the numerous benefits associated with pedestrian and bicycle transportation, such as reducing traffic congestion and pollution, promoting physical activity, and improving public health. To become a successful planner, one must possess strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to plan and execute projects efficiently.

experience in urban planning, engineering, or architecture is highly advantageous. With the right skills, knowledge, and experience, a competent pedestrian and bicycle transportation planner can work to improve cities and communities by creating safe, efficient, and enjoyable pathways for walking and cycling.

You may want to check Traffic Signal Technician Supervisor, Traffic Signal Design Engineer, and Traffic Signal Timing Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Develops and implements innovative strategies to improve the safety and efficiency of pedestrian and bicycle transportation systems.
Evaluates existing transportation infrastructure to identify gaps in pedestrian and bicycle safety and access.
Creates plans for new pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, including sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, and bike racks.
Develops public engagement strategies to solicit input from stakeholders and community members.
Analyzes data related to pedestrian and bicycle usage, accidents, and safety to inform policy and program decisions.
Develops grant proposals to secure funding for pedestrian and bicycle projects.
Collaborates with other professionals, including planners, engineers, and public health professionals.
Develops educational materials to promote pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Coordinates with local government agencies to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Represents the organization at public meetings and other events to advocate for pedestrian and bicycle policies.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of pedestrian and bicycle transportation planning principles, including traffic engineering, urban design, land use planning, and GIS.
Familiarity with the principles of public health, social equity, and environmental sustainability.
Working knowledge of relevant local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies related to pedestrian and bicycle planning.
Ability to develop and implement comprehensive plans and programs that increase the safety and accessibility of pedestrian and bicycle travel.
Experience with public engagement techniques to solicit input from stakeholders and the public regarding proposed plans and programs.
Ability to analyze, interpret, and evaluate data related to pedestrian and bicycle travel, including data from surveys, observational studies, and traffic counts.
Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively present information to a variety of audiences.
Ability to collaborate with stakeholders, community members, and other agencies to ensure successful implementation of plans and programs.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and GIS software such as ArcGIS.

Creating a successful Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner requires a variety of skills, including critical thinking, organization, and communication. Critical thinking is essential for understanding the needs of the community, as well as evaluating existing infrastructure and planning for future initiatives. Organization is key to ensure the plan is comprehensive and efficient, with each element working together for the greater good of the community.

Finally, strong communication is necessary to explain the plan and its benefits to stakeholders, as well as to keep the community informed of progress throughout the planning process. By mastering these skills, a Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner can create an effective plan that meets the needs of the community.

Traffic Signal Technician, Parking and Traffic Control Technician, and Highway Traffic Operations Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How would you go about developing a comprehensive plan to improve pedestrian and bicycle transportation in a given area?
What strategies do you use to identify potential transportation issues and solutions?
How do you ensure that all stakeholders are included in the planning process?
What experience do you have working with local government, community groups, and other stakeholders to develop pedestrian and bicycle transportation plans?
How do you ensure that your plans are actively implemented?
What methods do you use to assess the success of pedestrian and bicycle transportation plans?
How do you balance competing interests when it comes to designing and implementing pedestrian and bicycle transportation plans?
How would you promote the use of pedestrian and bicycle transportation in a given location?
How are safety considerations taken into account when developing pedestrian and bicycle transportation plans?
What is your experience in advocating for pedestrian and bicycle transportation needs at the local, state, regional, and/or federal level?

Common Tools in Industry

GIS Software. Geographic Information System (GIS) software is used to create maps, analyze spatial relationships, and manage data. Example: ArcGIS
Pedestrian and Bicycle Modeling Software. This software is used to simulate pedestrian and bicycle traffic patterns and behaviors. Example: VISSIM
Traffic Analysis Software. This software is used to analyze transportation data, including traffic flow and speeds, to identify issues and opportunities. Example: SIDRA
Data Collection Tools. A variety of tools can be used to collect information on pedestrian and bicycle traffic, including surveys, GPS tracking, and automated counters. Example: Strava
Design Software. Design software is used to map out pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, including bike lanes and paths, sidewalks, and crosswalks. Example: AutoCAD
Public Engagement Software. This software is used to facilitate public engagement and input on pedestrian and bicycle planning initiatives. Example: MindMixer

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP)
Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
Alliance for Biking and Walking
Safe Routes to School National Partnership
League of American Bicyclists
International Mountain Bicycling Association
WalkBoston
National Center for Bicycling & Walking

We also have Traffic Supervisor, Parking and Traffic Control Engineer, and Traffic Signals Inspector jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Active Transportation. The use of human-powered transportation such as walking, biking, and rolling (e. g. skateboarding) for everyday transportation needs.
Bicycle Network. A connected system of roads, paths, and trails that are designed to accommodate and encourage bicycle travel.
Complete Streets. Streets designed and operated to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities.
Connectivity. The ability to move from one place to another without interruption or delay.
Infrastructure. The physical components of a transportation system, such as roads and bike paths.
Multi-modal. A transportation system that allows for multiple modes of travel, such as walking, biking, driving, and public transit.
Non-motorized. Travel by non-motorized means such as walking and biking.
Safe Routes to School. A program focused on improving safety and access to schools for walking and biking by providing infrastructure improvements and education programs.
Shared-Use Paths. Multi-use paths that are designed to accommodate both bicyclists and pedestrians.
Traffic Calming. Techniques used to reduce the speed and volume of motor vehicle traffic on a street or road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner?

A Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planner is a professional who works to create equitable, safe, and efficient transportation networks in communities by focusing on walkability and bikeability.

What goals do Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners strive to achieve?

Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners strive to create transportation systems that are accessible and equitable for all users, while addressing issues such as air pollution, traffic congestion, and public health.

What are some strategies employed by Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners?

Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners may employ strategies such as increasing the availability of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, developing safe routes to schools, and improving access to public transportation.

How do Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners measure success?

Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners measure success by assessing the number of pedestrians and bicyclists using the transportation network, the average speed of travel, and the number of reported crashes in the area.

What qualifications do Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners need?

Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation Planners typically need a Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning or a related field, as well as experience in public sector planning or engineering. Knowledge of GIS and other relevant software is also beneficial.