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I have really mixed feelings about this. The first is the notion that the Pkwy isn't a commuter route. It is and it has to be. The day of that road being a quaint scenic thoroughfare died over the years as traffic volume has increased. Its a needed avenue for transportation. Second, if there are no cyclist or pedestrians on the roadway I am not sure what the reason for slowing things down would be. The road is relatively an easy drive at most speeds up to 60. Yes, they need to be lower near each end of the stretch we are talking about, but otherwise, I don't get it. As for the trail and bikes (and bikes related to using the Pkwy) I agree 100%. The trail surface due to roots is terrible (as it is on other trails like W&OD in spots). And the path could definitely use to be wider. No studies needed, just do it.

It clearly wasn't built as a commuter route so isn't designed as one, but yes, it is one. But 60 is way too fast for that road. People wreck all the time near Rosslyn, and you sometimes see tire tracks across the grass and trail near Trollheim. Eventually a pedestrian or cyclist is going to get hurt.

I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the trail. It has become ridiculous in places.

It is a commuter route, but it doesn't have to be one, at least not one like it currently is.

We could, for example, use one lane during rush hour for express buses between Ft. Belvoir and the King Street Metro. And/or put a rush-hour congestion charge on the road.

No reason it can't be a parkway AND a commuter route. Imagine how many people would feel safe commuting by bike if they got the whole road to themselves during rush hours and cars were relegated to off-peak times like weekends. Then walkers could have the trail, which would probably be safe for them once the bikes take the road. We've got to get over our car bias.

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