Jessica Wilson has provided a great summary of TDOT objectives for Bike/Ped programs. (CLICK HERE
to view it). It offers a great way to see what has been accomplished
over the last two years and what might be expected in the future. If
you are an advocate, you need to read this Summary and offer your
comments. Your perspective is very important to the priorities that
TDOT and BWT are able to set in an environment of significantly (more
than 30%) reduced spending and loss of Federal mandates.
This is a really wonderful comprehensive list of objectives. All of them are important, but personally I would love to see some big progress on the following items:
ReplyDeleteExpand and Improve a Statewide Network of Bicycle Routes
-Implement the proposed State Highway Bicycle Route System (as presented in Technical Memorandum #2) connecting major urban areas, recreational areas, and visitor destinations with distinct route signage.
-Provide user maps showing the bicycling conditions and locations in the state (update maps every 2 to 3 years to account for changing roadway conditions).
-Allow state highways with existing traditional bike route signs and the State’s old signed BRAT routes to remain as part of local routes and/or as previously designated routes. Over time, evaluate these routes to determine necessary changes.
-Work with Adventure Cycling Association and other advocacy groups within the state to develop bicycle routes through Tennessee that are part of the U.S. Bicycle Route System. Additionally, as appropriate assist in the development of other touring routes throughout Tennessee that add to the proposed State Highway Bicycle Route System (as presented in Technical Memorandum #2).
Statewide Information Systems
-Develop statewide bicycle route maps (in print and online) that show recommended routes on state highways.
-Develop a standard geo-referenced (GIS) database that would allow local agencies to seamlessly transfer spatial information and update TDOT’s GIS databases relative to local bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
Update the State’s bicycle level of service (BLOS) “bicycle suitability map” every 2 to 3 years to account for changing roadway and traffic conditions.