MEDIA RELEASE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT ON BIKE LANES FIRST YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES | August 12, 2013 The City is examining a new proposal to install bike lanes due to challenges discovered when investigating the original pilot project. The City originally intended to explore the installation of a bike lane “pilot project” extending from the downtown (46 Street) to McDonald Drive in Old Town. Based on the City’s technical investigation of the area a number of challenges in proceeding with this project without capital investment were discovered. The City is revising the bike lane proposal to coordinate with upcoming capital projects, scheduled for review during the 2014 budget deliberations. Challenges: • The road widths narrow from 12.5 meters from the downtown core to 10 meters and then 8 meters into Old Town which is not suitable to safely accommodate motor vehicles and a bike lane. • The roadway in many locations contains dips and gravel with no asphalt , which make them unsuitable for a bike lane. • Significant capital investment would be required to complete this project to ensure public safety and enjoyment of the lane. In order to balance public demand and safety the City is creating a workable pilot project to be implemented in 2014 which can be tied to the City’s capital program. An area for consideration for a pilot projects is 52 Avenue from 56 Street to Franklin Avenue (repaving from 49 Street to 56 Street). A bike-lane could be established along this corridor and would extend to Franklin Avenue. However, the City is planning on engaging with residents on a bike lane strategy. Public engagement, a model which has been successful with both the Government Dock and Pilot’s Monument projects, will incorporate a broader bike lane and phasing strategy providing essential links through corridors in the downtown and to major trail systems. “The City of Yellowknife recognizes a growing interest in the use of bike lanes. The City has and will continue to promote active transportation and better neighbourhood connectivity. Bike lanes are now becoming a fundamental aspect of community planning and development within many municipalities. We recognize that residents of all ages have important advice for the City on this matter and we are looking forward to developing a broad-based and age-diverse approach to asking residents for their guidance.” Says Deputy Mayor, Cory Vanthuyne For more information: Jeffrey Humble Director, Planning & Development Department [email protected] 867.920.5633
Posted on: Tue, 13 Aug 2013 00:45:07 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015