AG 2002 12 16 (Regular) - Laserfiche WebLink

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BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN TRANSPORTATION Current Status The Town of Mount Pleasant has always maintained a strong sidewalk system throughout the Town. This amenity has enhanced the Town's character as a small, friendly town where citizens interact with each other. The recently adopted Unified Development Ordinance now requires these types of improvements on all new development projects. The benefit of these requirements is that there is an existing system to connect to and in which to continue. As these new developments and streets occur, there may bc instances of gaps, lack of connection between developments and projects along the thoroughfare and collector street systems. As such, it is recommended that a plan be established to determine how to fill those gaps in the transportation system. Outside of the Town and ETJ sidewalks and bike lanes do not exist. Because of the nature of development in these areas sidewalks are not practical. However, the provision of shoulders on rural roads would enhance safety for both the motorist and bicyclists. As part of the Livable Community Blueprint, several roads were identified for bicycle routes. Roads along these routes should be improved with shoulders during planned NCDOT resurfacing projects. NCDOT and Cabarrus County have also identified several on-road routes that are currently suitable for bicycle traffic. These routes are in the process of being mapped. Signage of these routes will be provided as part of the project. Goals and Recommendations Accommodations for bicycle and pedestrian travel lanes have gained more popularity and discussion since the surge of development, not only in Cabarrus County, but also around the State. With Neo-traditional projects serving as the latest trend of suburban development, sidewalks and bike lanes have become a point of interest for many homeowners and communities. The increased popularity is a result of efforts and interest in making areas more walkable, more community oriented, to give another safe option for transportation, and to reduce the negative impacts of vehicular traffic. It is recommended that the Town reviews its existing streets and sidewalks to determine the opportunities for non-automobile travel and make improvements as projects occur. All new road projects and improvements to existing roads should be evaluated for the feasibility of bicycle and pedestrian improvements. To efficiently accomplish these tasks, it is recommended that a bicycle and pedestrian plan be written in conjunction with the greenway and bicycle routes suggested by the Livable Community Blueprint Plan. This plan has provided a "needs assessment" for all portions of the County and has given recommendations for establishment of greenways. A site specific bicycle and pedestrian plan that focuses on the Town of Mount Pleasant would provide a guide for new sidewalks, connections to be made between sidewalk segments, and establishment of bike lanes as roads are re-paved. The two documents, together, will make it possible for people to make both short and long trips by foot or on a bicycle. The biggest challenge facing Mount Pleasant at this time in regards to pedestrian and bicycle transportation is in regard to Highway 49 and its scheduled widening. The Town will need to work very hard with NCDOT to come up with a feasible solution that will allow for safe passage across Highway 49 at Main Street. By accomplishing a safe way to cross Highway 49 from Main Street, several very positive effects will occur. First, it will provide a protected means for citizens to reach both schools on the north side of Town. Second, it will connect the residential area on the