filed under: master plans
This document will review CDTC’s accomplishments in improving the bicycle and pedestrian travel environment throughout the region and identify any shortfalls. It will propose new goals, with a focus on improving the health and increasing economic activity in the region related to bicycling and walking. The document also includes an implementation plan to help CDTC prioritize bicycle and pedestrian programs, projects and initiatives to have the greatest regional impact and achieve the most goals. This updated document has been renamed the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan.
by Capital District Transportation Committee
Bicycling and walking are viable modes of transportation and mobility for many people in the Capital District. Everyone has their own transportation preferences but at some point in everyone’s trip they become a pedestrian. In fact, Webster’s Dictionary includes the word “pedestrian” in its full meaning of traffic: “the movement (as of vehicles or pedestrians) through an area or along a route.” Bicyclists, formerly known as “wheelmen,” joined together across the United States in the late 1800s to advocate for paved roads. At the time, the roads were rutted and made of gravel and dirt and bicyclists faced antagonism from horsemen, wagon drivers, and pedestrians. The success of this advocacy effort ultimately led to our national highway system.
Rates of bicycling and walking are on the rise nationwide, and not just for recreation. Bicycling and walking help reduce emissions, improve health and have a positive impact on economic development. Safe walking and biking is a quality of life measure, and is proving to be a sought-after amenity for house shoppers. Long term trends also show that fatality rates for bicyclists and pedestrians are on the decline.
Numerous communities in the four-County region have adopted Complete Streets ordinances or policies, seeking to more equally consider the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians, as well as transit riders, freight, and automobiles.
Published September 2015
The Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC) is the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy and Saratoga Springs metropolitan areas.
Sun Corridor Trail Alliance Action Plan
The SCTA Action Plan serves as a checklist of guiding tasks for the new organization as it continues to move the Sun Corridor Trail forward.
San Jose Trail Program Strategic Plan
While the Trail Program has identified and documented 133 miles of potential trails, the Strategic Plan is focused on delivery of the immediate 100-mile goal in the most cost effective and efficient manner.
The Jeffco Trails Plan explores the path ahead for the future of all trails in Jefferson County, Colorado.
The Great Shasta Rail Trail will link the towns of McCloud and Burney and nearby recreation areas along an 80 mile trail that will feature local heritage, scenic landscapes, and stimulate the economic and social vitality of the region.
