I've failed to check Alexandria's Pedestrian and Bicycle Citizen's Group's meeting notes online. The most recent meeting with notes is from last May and here are the things that I haven't already covered.
Existing Projects
1. Holmes Run/Chambliss Crossing - A contract has been initiated with a design firm to develop crossing plans. As part of the Federal Government’s Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) project, additional funding has been obtained for streambank stabilization/restoration. Two community meetings were held as recently as September. More info here.
2. Tarleton Trail - Construction was to begin in summer 2009 (??). This gravel trail will establish a formal trail connection between the Holmes Run Greenway and Gordon Street.
3. Eisenhower Avenue Phase 1B -Funding for this project was part of the 2005 transportation enhancements. Of the initial $850,000, less than $250,000 was used for the new trail between Lake Cook and the Cameron Run Bridge. The City is working to fund the remainder of the project (Phase 1A, underpass) using stimulus funding.
4. Bicycle/Pedestrian Safety Projects -The City continues its bicycle/pedestrian safety initiatives. Major intersection improvements have been completed at Van Dorn and Stevenson and on-street bikeway markings are planned for Commonwealth Avenue, Braddock Road and Cameron Street in 2009.
5. Wayfinding – The complete citywide wayfinding plan is on-line. The project proposes trail signage for the City’s three main trail corridors: the Mount Vernon Trail, Holmes Run Greenway and Four Mile Run. No funding is available in the FY2010 budget for wayfinding. On-Street bikeway signs will continue to be erected by T&ES and consistent with existing bike route signs. VDOT erected signs as part of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail project.
6. Metro/WMATA Bicycle Parking – Bicycle racks at Braddock Road, Van Dorn and King Street Metro stations have been replaced and some capacity has been added.
New Projects
• Safe Routes To School 2010 -The Alexandria City Public Schools formally rescinded its policy prohibiting walking/bicycling to school at Tucker Elementary. Additionally, VDOT has awarded $95,000 to ACPS and the City for Safe Routes to School funding. Some of the initiatives toward this project will be to create and distribute maps, designate Walking Wednesdays and hire a program coordinator by fall 2009.
• Pedestrian Legislation 2010 – Councilman Rob Krupicka is recommending passage of legislation that would require motorists to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks on roads. The current law, Sec. 46.2-924 of the Virginia Code states that drivers must “yield” to pedestrians in crosswalks. It goes on to stipulate the various methods by which a driver may yield, including “changing their course…or stop if necessary.” Councilman Krupicka is asking for help and support to get his draft document into a bill and passed. Contact his aide, Elizabeth at Elizabeth.jones@alexandriava.gov , 703-838-4500 or Councilman Krupicka at council@krupicka.com with ideas or to be placed on update mailing list. More information can be found here.
Zoning/City Code update regarding bicycle display – In June, the Planning Commission and City Council considered a text amendment to the City's Zoning Ordinance and City Code to allow outdoor display of rental bicycles.
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