County Seeks Public Input on Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plan
Towson, Md. (January 6, 2012) - County Executive Kevin Kamenetz invites bicycling enthusiasts and other interested people to review the latest draft of the Western Baltimore County Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plan. The new version responds to the public comments that were submitted on the previous draft, and includes expanded recommendations for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
Benefits
The plan is part of a county-wide long-range plan to guide future improvements to the county's transportation network to better accommodate access by walking and bicycling. The plan also recommends supportive encouragement, enforcement and education strategies to promote safe travel by these sustainable transportation modes. This phase covers the first, second, third and fourth council districts in the urban area of the county.
"Bike lanes and walking trails are positive, family-friendly amenities that attract people to a community and enhance their everyday quality of life," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. "We are very interested in hearing from the public about this plan so that we can position ourselves for future improvements."
"I'm enthused about the progress on this important plan that will bring tangible community benefits," said Baltimore County Council Chair Vicki Almond.
Updates to Draft Plan
The Western Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plan can be viewed online. The recommendations for bicycle improvements can also be viewed on an interactive map by selecting the Bicycle Facilities tab. The map depicts the recommendations of both the Eastern and Western Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plans. The Eastern Plan was approved by the Baltimore County Council in 2006.
Next Steps
After this round of public review, the Western Plan will be submitted to the Baltimore County Planning Board and the County Council for adoption as an amendment to the County's Master Plan.
As noted in the plan, it will take considerable time and effort to realize the plan's recommendations, particularly in light of current economic conditions. However, having an adopted plan provides the guidance needed to begin the process. As the county continues to evolve, creating environments that support walking and bicycling will become increasingly important in maintaining the county's quality of life. As the basic elements of a multi-modal transportation system, improving access by walking and bicycling will help reduce air pollution, traffic congestion and reliance on oil. In addition, these active transportation modes promote better health, expand recreational opportunities and enhance the vibrancy of the county's communities.
Open Houses Scheduled On Western Plan
The Baltimore County Office of Planning will host two informational meetings on the Western Plan so that citizens will have a chance to view the plan and discuss it with county planning staff.
- Wednesday, January 18, 2012 from 6-8 p.m.
Benjamin Banneker Museum, Almanac Hall
300 Oella Avenue, Baltimore 21228 - Wednesday, January 25, 2012 from 6-8 p.m.
West Towson Elementary School Cafeteria
6914 N. Charles Street, Towson 21204
Public Input Invited
Citizens will have an opportunity to comment on the plan at either of the open houses. Written comments can also be submitted until January 27, 2012 to:
Kathy Schlabach, Project Manager
Baltimore County Department of Planning
105 West Chesapeake Avenue, Suite 101
Towson, MD 21204
Information: Contact Kathy Schlabach at kschlabach@baltimorecountymd.gov or 410-887-3521.
