The Department of Transportation, Division of Highways, referred to in this chapter as “the Department,” is hereby authorized to establish bikeways within this State for the use, enjoyment and participation of the public in nonmotorized bicycling. The routes established for such bikeways shall be designed with consideration for the safety of both cyclists and motorists and may be separate roadways, or may utilize existing roads, streets and parkways or other appropriate thoroughfares. Such bikeways may also be constructed on land acquired by the Department specifically for that purpose.