liiklusteed

Liiklusteed is a planning concept used in Estonia to describe the network of routes and corridors through which traffic flows. It encompasses motor roads, streets, and non-motorized routes such as sidewalks and cycling paths, all organized to support safe and efficient movement of people and goods. In planning documents, liiklusteed are developed as cohesive systems that connect settlements, neighborhoods, and public facilities, while accommodating multiple modes of transport. A subset of the broader network are kergliiklusteed, designated for light traffic such as pedestrians and cyclists, often constructed separately from motor vehicle traffic.

The governance and classification of liiklusteed are typically divided by function and responsibility. State roads (riigiteed) form the trunk of the network; local roads are managed by municipalities; private roads may exist in some contexts. Planning and design follow national and European standards to ensure safety, accessibility, and compatibility with surrounding land use. Features commonly encountered on liiklusteed include protected cycle lanes, crosswalks, traffic calming measures, lighting, and accessible interfaces for people with mobility limitations.

The purpose of the liiklusteed network is to promote multimodal mobility, reduce car dependence, improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and support sustainable regional development. The development of these routes reflects broader trends in Estonia toward integrated transport planning, climate goals, and EU funding programs that support cycling infrastructure and pedestrian networks.