The City of Eugene launched a path etiquette campaign this summer promoting courteous and safe behavior on our shared-use paths. Distinctive blue signs along popular paths remind community members:
- Paths are for everyone — walk, bike, wheelchair, skate, or scooter, all are welcome
- Travel a safe speed — bikes and e-bikes should only go the max speed (20 MPH) when no other users are present
- Stay on your side — stay right, pass left, don’t take more than your half
- Give warning when passing — call "passing on your left” or ring a bell
- Keep dogs on a short leash — 6 feet or less and allow for passing
- Use lights at night — see and be seen, use a front white light and red rear light
Eugene’s shared-use paths are popular and well loved. With over 45 miles of paths, there’s options for everyone!
Since the pandemic, there’s been an increase in the number of people and the variety of wheeled devices on our paths, including e-bikes, scooters, skateboards, one-wheels and more. With the increase in usage, there has also been an increase in speeding. The City wants to remind path users that — while 20 MPH is the maximum legal speed on paths — all users should travel a safe 10 to 12 MPH whenever others are present.
The City’s path etiquette campaign educates community members, highlighting best practices for travelling on crowded paths. The campaign launched in July and includes temporary path signage, community outreach, education and media.
The first phase of the campaign focused on outreach, education and surveys. The second phase of the campaign kicks off this month with temporary path signage, print and online media, and continued data collection. Keep an eye out for City staff placing signage and recording speeds on the busiest shared-use paths!