March 2008 DC BAC Meeting Notes

I didn't attend so these are from the minutes

1. Rails to Trails Conservancy 2010 Campaign for Active Transportation -

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's 2010 Campaign for Active Transportation aims to build on the success of the Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program in SAFETEA-LU. The goal: empowering dozens of communities to each advocate for $50 million in federal funds to make focused investments in infrastructure and programs to shift automobile trips to walking and biking. The campaign aims to double the federal investment in active transportation in the next reauthorization.

Kevin Mills of RTC would like DC to apply to be one of the communities to receive this additional money. There was some discussion as to whether DC should do this by itself or in conjunction with surrounding jurisdictions. Arlington and Alexandria are applying together for example.

2. DDOT is working on 14 miles of proposed bike lanes for 2008, 4 miles done during resurfacing and 10 miles of retrofits.

3. Bike Station - the additional money DDOT was seeking was approved so construction should begin this summer.

4. DDOT has hired a Safe Routes to Schools coordinator. The DC program will begin with 8 pilot schools (one in each ward). Applications were due May 1.

5. Smart Bike - DDOT hoped to launch the program in April. Electrical hook-ups for the racks are the main hold up. DDOT and Clear Channel are working with PEPCO on this.

6. Rock Creek Park Trail - DDOT was to meet with NPS about widening the trail to 10 feet.

7. Anacostia Riverwalk Trail - There is a proposal to put in rumble strips near the boathouse so that cyclists will slow down and not hit a crew carrying a 60 foot boat.

8. Metropolitan Branch Trail - Design of the Rhode Island Avenue Metro Bridge has begun. This should take about a year.

9. Other - The Commerce department's bike parking area will be removed for about 18 months for renovation. The bike registration requirement has been rescinded by the council; police will be informed and educated on this change.