Insights Resources

Evolution of Quick-Build Bikeways

 

Quick-build projects have come a long way from their paint-and-plastic beginnings. Our toolbox offers an easy way to compare materials.
February 19, 2026 • 2 minute read
Barriers used for a bike lane in Boulder Colorado
Insights Resources

Evolution of Quick-Build Bikeways

 

Quick-build projects have come a long way from their paint-and-plastic beginnings. Our toolbox offers an easy way to compare materials.
February 19, 2026 • 2 minute read
Agencies everywhere share similar goals: safer, more comfortable streets that work for everyone. But big street makeovers take time and money. Quick-build projects fill the gap, protecting the most vulnerable roadway users like cyclists and pedestrians now—not years down the road when big plans finally break ground.

The first wave of quick-build materials like flexible posts, striping, and temporary barricades are versatile and allow for quick construction, but they aren’t as durable or inviting to a wide range of users as newer materials.

Orange bollards marking a bike lane on a road
Bike lane with bollards on a bridge on a sunny day
Closeup of a bike lane running parallel to a street
Bike lane with a painted buffer and green markings
Today, agencies have far more options than they did even a few years ago. These newer materials last longer, need less upkeep, and look and feel more like permanent infrastructure, making streets safer and more inviting while still being practical and efficient to install.

Why Material Selection Matters

Thoughtful choices help agencies:

  • Bridge funding gaps by extending the life of quick-build projects until permanent reconstruction is feasible.
  • Pilot complete street concepts at scale in safe, efficient, and compelling ways.
  • Demonstrate results that help decision-makers build support for long-term, permanent investments.
  • Build public trust in infrastructure investment choices with materials that are durable, low maintenance, and well-integrated into streets and communities.
  • Improve people’s experience on the street with materials that feel protective, comfortable, and reliable for all, regardless of a person’s age or ability.
Successful quick-build projects start with the right tools, so it helps to have a wide range of materials to consider.

Introducing a Quick-Build Materials Toolbox for Bikeways

Our Quick-Build Materials Toolbox for Bikeways highlights materials that fit a range of budgets, timelines, and goals for durability, maintenance needs, and aesthetics. It is designed to help public agencies compare options and select the right fit for their project goals.

View the Toolbox

Toolbox in Action

We and our partners have several projects under design or construction throughout the US. See some of these materials from the Toolbox in current designs, and stay tuned for built pictures coming this year!

Protected Bikeway with Extruded Curb

Santa Monica, CA

Map of protected bikeway in Santa Monica, CA

Draft designs by Fehr & Peers. Final design subject to change.
Image credit: Fehr & Peers

Broadway in Santa Monica features extruded curb, which is a concrete curb median that is formed and laid with the help of a concrete extrusion machine. Because it does not require excavation, it can be installed more quickly than traditional cast-in-place curb. This makes it an ideal quick-build option that offers greater durability than other bikeway buffer material options.

Extruded Curb and Self-watering Planters

West Hollywood, CA

Map of self-watering planters on Fountain Avenue in West Hollywood

Draft designs by Fehr & Peers. Final design subject to change.
Self-watering planter image credit: EarthPlanter

Fountain Avenue in West Hollywood pairs extruded curb with self-watering planters. The planters reinforce curb extensions, reduce vehicle encroachment, and add greenery to the corridor. Their built-in water reservoirs lower long-term maintenance needs (and costs) and create a streetscape that feels more welcoming.

Precast Curbs for Protected Bike Lanes

Dallas, TX

Map showing precast concrete curbs in downtown Dallas

Draft designs by Fehr & Peers. Final design subject to change.
Image credit: Fehr & Peers

Downtown Dallas is using precast concrete curbs to create durable, quick-to-install protection for new bike lanes. Precast elements helped the city tailor spacing, buffer width, and striping to local needs while staying within a rapid delivery timeline. Oversized raised pavement markers were added to discourage vehicle encroachment while remaining mountable for service vehicles at driveways.
Connect with our team for help finding the right materials for your quick-build projects!

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Contributors

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Josh Peterman

Principal

PE, RSP1

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Headshot of staff member Kendra Rowley

Kendra Rowley

Senior Associate

PE

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Headshot of staff member Natalie Chyba

Natalie Chyba

Senior Associate

PE

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Staff photo of Danielle Caparas

Danielle Caparas

Engineer/Planner

EIT

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