Starting Oct. 27, changes will be made to the westbound lanes on the Richmond–San Rafael (RSR) Bridge.
The existing bike and pedestrian path, currently open 24/7, will be available only from Thursdays at 2 p.m. through Sundays at 11 p.m. At all other times, the lane will return to use as a highway shoulder lane, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.
To support cyclists when the path is closed, a free bike shuttle service will run 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Monday through Wednesday) and 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday.
Ahead of this transition, cyclists are invited to a hands-on demonstration of the new RSR Bridge Bike Shuttle trailer this Thursday, Oct. 9, from 2-4 p.m. at Marina Park Parking Lot, 1200 Melville Square in Richmond. Especially encouraged to attend this demonstration are owners of non-standard bikes (recumbents, trikes, e-bikes, bikes with trailers, etc.).
Supporters of the lane-reconfiguration state that converting the bridge’s shoulder into a travel lane during weekday periods will enhance vehicular flow and shorten emergency response times during peak demand.
Over the coming three years, the configuration will be evaluated. The possibility of converting the westbound shoulder into a part-time HOV lane will also be under review.