Cobb
Bike and Pedestrian Improvement Plan
Cobb County
is in the midst of a 15 month project to identify ways to improve
biking and walking conditions throughout the county. Public
workshops were held in January.
Participants
were asked to rate project objectives. They reviewed maps and
photos showing current levels of service and latent demand and
were asked to choose their preferred overall level of service
(rated from A to F). Then using quadrant maps and color coded
tape, they had a chance to identify 5 miles to receive priority
treatment (not necessarily contiguous) for both biking and walking.
Finally, they viewed various options for Silver Comet Trail extensions
and indicated their preferences.
Results
were compiled and presented at the stakeholders meeting on May
21. Among the highest votes for priority treatment were John Ward
/ Irvin Rd / Dallas Hwy / Villarica as well as Lower Roswell Rd
for both bike and pedestrian improvements. This is partly due
to a concentrated email campaign from homeowners. Acceptable level
of service (LOS) votes fell heavily in the C range with 43% of
votes for bike LOS (followed by 29% B) and 34% for pedestrian
LOS (followed by 23% D).
The next
challenge is reducing the 790 miles of study network to a primary
network for consideration. Stakeholders were asked for input on
arriving at a prioritization process, including need for improvement,
latent demand, and workshop votes.
The Silver Comet Trail
Extension alternatives have been reduced to two: Highland Parkway
and Log Cabin/Cumberland.
The Safe Routes to
School program has begun pilot programs at four elementary schools
(Cheatham Hill, Sope Creek, Addison, Garrison Mill) and one middle
school (Floyd).
