For the last several years the Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) has recommended communities prepare and adopt Pedestrian Safety Action Plans. This is in response to the continuing number of pedestrian crashes both nationally and here in New Mexico, which has one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates. FWHA has prepared a guidebook, “How to Develop a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan” local communities can follow.
Pedestrian and bicyclist facilities are an integral part of the Bernalillo County transportation system. They include sidewalks in the more urban areas, soft-pavement trails in the rural areas, bike lanes along major roads, and bike trails and equestrian trails off the road network. When planning for pedestrian and bicyclist facilities, the primary goal is to ensure safety for all travelers along county roadways, especially children on routes to school and access for disabled persons to transit stops. Other goals include:
· Provide a choice in transportation to work, school, and shopping for all ages and abilities,
· Promote healthy lifestyles and recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities by encouraging residents to exercise daily,
· Reduce energy use and improvement air quality.
This study will identify the pedestrian and bicyclist issues in the County and help to prioritize those projects.
Public meetings for the South Valley area have been scheduled over the next couple of weeks. You are encouraged to attend any of these meetings and share your views:
· Far South Valley Area
Monday, May 2
6:00pm – 7:00pm
Los Padillas Community Center
· Mid South Valley Area
Thursday, May 12
5:30pm – 6:30pm
South Area Command (Sheriff’s sub-station)
2039 Isleta Blvd
· Mountain View Area
Wednesday, May 18
5:30pm – 6:15pm
Mountain View Community Center
Comments can also be shared via email to the Bernalillo County Public Works Division, Richard Meadows, Transportation Planner at RMeadows@bernco.gov.
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