Pedestrian or cyclist-involved accidents with motor vehicles seem to happen far too often.

On State Road A1A, the main drag in Amelia Island, transportation officials and residents are hoping a new construction project will reduce the danger of more of those tragedies.

The bike lane on A1A will remain for competitive cyclists, but to the right, the Florida Department of Transportation is constructing a paved pathway for cyclists, families, walkers and whoever wants to use it.

"We've had several tragedies in the north Florida area, really a shame," said Mike Pikula, of Trail Advocates.

That's why FDOT started construction of the 6-mile-long shared use pedestrian and bicycle path next to A1A on Monday -- to give people the option of off-road riding or walking.

"An experienced cyclist can cope with the traffic, but it just pains me to see a family with two young kids on the road trying to enjoy the sport and they can't do it safely," Pikula said.

The 10-foot-wide paved path will be from the north end of the Nassau Sound Bridge to Peters Point Park adjacent to Fletcher Avenue.

"The new trail is very important," Pikula said. "Many of us are experienced cyclists and we ride the roads, but we're always concerned about traffic and cars."

Other cyclists in the area agree.

"It's for people that are just starting out, they're not sure of themselves," said Don Eipeot, a cyclist for 20 years. "Having a nice bike trial is a safe ride, no traffic, no cars."

It will be separate path several feet away from traffic intended to keep cars and trucks away from bicyclists and pedestrians.

"Trying to stay safe is no easy chore around here," Pikula said.

Avid bike riders say when the new path is complete, families can enjoy the peace of mind of being away from nearby traffic.

The construction project costs $2.3 million and should be finished by spring of next year.