Capital
District Transportation Committee
Bicycle
and Pedestrian Task Force
Record of
Meeting on September 11, 2007
Attendance: Ross Farrell (CDTA), Jim Levy (Latham
Resident), Raj Malhotra (NYSDOT Region 1), Don Odell (ABC), John Stangle (Town
of Colonie), Elaine Troy (NYSDOH Healthy Heart), Ivan Vamos (NYBC), Mike Alba (CDTC), Teresa LaSalle (CDTC), Jason Purvis (CDTC)
1.0 NEW BUSINESS
1.1 Task Force—Plan of Action
(continued discussion):
1.1.1 Updating Priority Network – J. Purvis noted that if
attendance is sufficient at the October meeting actions will begin on defining
and refining the Bike/Ped Priority Network. The Priority Network is reviewable
in both text and graphic format on CDTC’s website on the BP Task Force page.
1.1.2 Working towards implementing Recommendations in Tool
Box – J. Purvis noted that members should be thinking about recommendations in
the Tool Box and how to work toward implementing some of the priorities.
1.1.3
Community Needs? - Possible ideas
include producing a flyer/brochure about facts and myths related to walking and
biking.
1.1.4
Others?
1.2 Safe Routes to School (Program Update): J. Purvis circulated a press release from the
Governor regarding the program. NYSDOT is still working out
the details of the program. Applications and guidebooks could be ready in
October. At this point CDTC is unsure
how MPO’s will be involved in the application review process.
1.3 MHBHT Map Update (begin process): The last print and update of the
Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail map was completed in 2004. There have been a few
changes to the trail since then and CDTC is looking to print an updated version
of the map in the spring of 2008. The
basic design and layout of the map will remain the same. CDTC will be looking for feedback on changes
to the trail over the winter. All task force members are encouraged to review
the map (it is available online as well) and provide any relevant input
regarding trail location/alignment for both on and off-road sections to
CDTC. Additional comments regarding map
content and design will be accepted considered as well, however the alignment
accuracy is most pertinent.
J.
Purvis noted that CDTC has some concerns regarding the distribution of trail
maps to agencies requesting large amounts, especially local Visitor’s
Centers. Due to supply issues and the
costs of printing, CDTC is looking into options to provide large quantities of
maps to agencies. One option is to have
agencies pre-order maps at the time of printing or perhaps limit the amount given
to one particular organization upfront.
I. Vamos suggested that CDTC provide agencies such as chambers and
visitors centers that send out relocation and our tourism packets with a flyer
advertising the map to prevent the distribution of large quantities of maps
that are sent to individuals who may not want or need the map. E. Troy suggested that the “I
Love NY” budget often works through chambers of commerce and that there may be
a way to tie into that budget. CDTC will explore these options over the winter.
1.4 Printing of Trail Survey: J. Purvis
reported that CDTC is currently soliciting printing quotes for 100 color copies
of the Trail Survey. All municipalities along any of the three surveyed trails
will receive a copy as will members of the task force. The survey will also be posted on CDTC’s
Bike/Ped Task Force page on the CDTC website as a PDF.
1.5 Other New Business:
J.
Purvis noted that to try and boost attendance for October and future meetings
he will send a group email to task force members reminding them that meeting
agendas and minutes are now available online only and meeting reminders are no
longer sent via mail.
R.
Malhotra noted that NYSDOT Region 1 will be holding a Planning Conference on
Wednesday, October 3rd in Schenectady. Attendance is by invitation only and is
limited to two attendees per municipality.
All municipalities within Region 1 have been invited. Several CDTC staff
members will be presenting at the conference.
D.
Odell discussed the Albany Bicycling Coalitions concerns regarding Delaware Avenue in the City of Albany.
R.
Farrell reported that CDTA will be analyzing data regarding the use of the on
bus bike racks.
The
Parks and Trails NY statewide conference will be held in Rochester September 28th
& 29th.
J.
Stangle noted that the Roundabout at Sand Creek Road and Colonie Center
Mall is expected to be completed by the end of the week of September 10th.
I.
Vamos noted that NYBC is advocating for the Complete Streets Legislation.
3.0 UPCOMING EVENTS
The next CDTC Bicycle and Pedestrian
Task Force meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 16, 2007 4:30 p.m. at the CDTC Offices.