A map of trail routes throughout the Town and Village of Stillwater, NY

A map of a trail route with two images of roads without bicycle facilities

Town of Stillwater Bike Feasibility Study

Identifying Bike Facilities for Every Rider in Stillwater

LaBella Associates was hired by the Town of Stillwater to conduct a feasibility study of an on-road bicycle facility between the Village of Stillwater, Town of Stillwater, and Saratoga National Historical Park. The project area primarily focuses on roads located in the Town of Stillwater. However, the Town aims to provide a connection and trailhead within the Village of Stillwater as well. The study will guide decision-making and future allocation of funding toward the proposed bike facility.

The feasibility study identified existing road conditions and facility user types, evaluated safety, recommended best facility practices, and explored potential routes, connections, and likely project costs. The report provides recommendations and strategies for implementation.

There are many factors to consider when determining the appropriate bicycle facility for an active road. One of these factors is the user. While advanced bicyclists are capable of riding in most traffic conditions, federal and state transportation agencies agree that the average bicyclist prefers a designated facility. The feasibility study assessed this in a comprehensive manner.

The Stillwater Bikeway will expand upon the existing New York State Empire State Trail; provide new alternative transportation opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors; encourage economic development; and improve the quality of life in the Village and Town of Stillwater.

Funding for the study was provided through the Town of Stillwater, Hudson River Valley Greenway, and the Saratoga County Trails Grant Program.

Pathways to History

The goal of the Stillwater Bikeway is to provide a continuous and safe on-road facility for bicyclists from the Village of Stillwater’s Major Dickinson Children’s Park (pictured) to Saratoga National Historical Park, the site of the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. The Stillwater Bikeway will also expand upon the existing New York State Empire State Trail.

A photo of Major Dickenson Children’s Park in Stillwater, NY

Recommendations

In addition to an overall recommendation to study each segment in more detail, the report identifies suggested improvements to support bicycle facilities, which vary by segment:

Install bikeway identification and speed control devices
Reduce speed limits
Widen the road to integrate a designated buffered bike lane
Install a paved shoulder

Some bikeway options are also identified in the report, including a shorter, more local route within the Village and a longer route with the potential to attract more capable riders to Saratoga National Historical Park.