Currently, Durham County does not have a sidewalk maintenance or construction program. The City of Durham maintains all sidewalks and bicycle facilities within city limits. Outside of Durham City limits, there is sidewalk that has been constructed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and segments which are privately owned. Research Triangle Park (RTP) manages the sidewalk and multi-use paths within their boundaries.

City of Durham - Sidewalks Map

City and County of Durham – Existing and Proposed Trails Map

Commissions

The Durham Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission (BPAC) is a citizens group whose purpose is to advise Durham’s City Council and Board of County Commissioners on bicycle and pedestrian issues. To find out more information and view the schedule of upcoming meetings please visit the BPAC website.

The Durham Open Space and Trails Commission (DOST) is an advisory board that advises the City Council and the Board of County Commissioners on matters relating to the preservation of open space and trails. To find out more information and view the schedule of upcoming meetings please visit the DOST website.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans

In 2006, Durham City and County completed the Comprehensive Bicycle Transportation Plan. The purpose of the plan was to increase mode share and safety for all those cycling and provide a bike-friendly environment for all Durham's residents to enjoy.  It examined the current needs and deficiencies and provided route and policy recommendations.

The Trails & Greenways Master Plan was a joint City and County planning effort completed in 2011. The Plan outlined goals, policies, and recommendations for developing the trails and a greenways system throughout Durham County.  It also includes how trails should be designed/built, how and what they are named, and how they are managed and maintained.

To view additional City of Durham planning effort please visit the Adopted Plans page on the City’s website.

In 2024, the City and County will be working on an update to our joint Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan which will help determine what the future of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure within the County looks like. Please stay tuned for more information.

Grants

The Durham County Transportation Department is exploring opportunities to increase access to trails and greenways both within the City of Durham and to our unincorporated communities throughout the County.

Click here for more information on our Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) Grant Application to conduct a planning study on Durham-to-Roxboro Rail Trail Corridor.