HomeMy WebLinkAboutDept Report 04-01-08
CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE
DEPARTMENT REPORT
APRIL 1, 2008
2. Docket No. 08030002 CPA: Bicycle Routes & Loops Systems Plan
The applicant seeks to amend the Thoroughfare Plan section of the Carmel/Clay Comprehensive
Plan, in order to propose and identify a system of Bicycle Routes and Loops on existing facilities.
Filed by the Carmel Department of Community Services on behalf of the Carmel Plan
Commission.
In January, the Bicycle Route Task Force was formed at the Department's request. The purpose of the
Task Force was to assist the Department in identifying a comprehensive bicycle network taking advantage
of existing facilities, including multi-use paths, bike lanes, and a multitude of low-volume residential
streets. A potential system has now been identified. It was unveiled and received well by the public at a
meeting of the Task Force on February 27.
The proposed bicycle network identifies 8 cross-city bik,e routes and 5 bike loops. The Routes consist
of 2 east-west routes and 6 north-south routes and are intended to provide longer connections to the
Monon, bike loops, or to neighboring communities. The Loops provide family-friendly circuits, passing
some of Carmers best amenities along the way. Each offers its own unique riding experience to cyclists
by highlighting different areas within Carmel. It is our hope that the publication of these routes and loops
will encourage more people to ride their bicycles while enhancing the experience of those already cycling
in Carmel.
Simultaneously, the Department is working to establish a logo, or "'brand," for the effort; something to
include on marketing materials, signs, or user-friendly maps. It is our goal to have something ready for
Bike to Work Day on May 16.
Enclosed in your info packets are:
1. Overall System Map
2. Aerial Views of Loops
3. Draft Council Resolution
March 18 Plan Commission Meeting, brief overview of comments/concerns:
1. Crossing US 31 is a concern, especially with the recent Council vote to ban truck traffic on
Keystone. Remove the US 31 route.
2. The US 31 crossing should be shown as a hazardous crossing or future connection.
3. Where is the budget for the printing/distribution of this map coming from? What is the budget
in dollars?
4. Put a date or version number on the map.
5. Leave the loops, but remove the paths.
6. Possibly break into 3 maps. It seems one map is doing too much.
The Department of Community Services recommends the Committee forward this item to the April
15 Plan Commission meeting with a favorable recommendation, after aU questions/concerns are
addressed.