Today is a hallowed day. Today, Google Maps has just made public an option that allows folks to get directions for bicycling to their destination. And it works.
In a partnership with the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Google Maps added more than 12,000 miles of trails, bike lanes, and recommended routes for more than 150 cities (and counties, like ours truly) across the U.S., according to The Official Google Blog. The feature gives turn-by-turn directions, mileage, and expected travel time for an average pedaler.
Arlington is awash in solid and dotted dark and light green lines representing the bike network. The network is up-to-date too and includes the I-395 underpass trail which was constructed less than a year ago.
Not only is the new Google Maps feature good for folks wanting to find the best route to bike to work, but this also is great for finding the best bike route for getting around town to run errands and socialize. With a nationwide map of trails, you can also plan your next trip on a trail that you may have not known even existed. I found a bunch of trails in the Mid-Atlantic region that are now on my list of places to go.
If you've been thinking about biking to work now that the weather is breaking or using your bike to replace some car trips, Google Maps is a great help.
Here's Google's video about their new service:
Enjoy!
by Paul DeMaio, MetroBike, LLC, a consultant to Arlington County Commuter Services.
Awesome addition. I use Google maps when I'm driving. I'm eager to see how well the GPS will work on the handheld and how accurate the locator will be since you have to be more precise when you ride a bike. Either way, great news that Google listens to their customers requests.
Posted by: NookSurfer | March 10, 2010 at 02:23 PM