What classification is given to a shared bike-vehicle lane?

A shared bike-vehicle lane is classified as a Class III bike facility. This classification indicates that the lane is shared with motor vehicles, allowing bicycles to operate within the same space as cars and trucks. Class III facilities often utilize signage and roadway markings to indicate to both cyclists and motorists that the lane is shared, promoting awareness and safety.

Class III bike facilities do not provide separate or dedicated space for bicycles, which distinguishes them from Class I and Class II facilities. Class I facilities are completely separate paths specifically for bicycle use, while Class II facilities are designated bike lanes marked on the road but still adjacent to vehicle traffic. As such, Class III is the appropriate classification for lanes where bicycles and vehicles cohabitate the same roadway without any separation. Class IV facilities refer to protected bike lanes that offer a physical barrier between cyclists and vehicular traffic, which is not applicable in the context of shared bike-vehicle lanes.