Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan 2005

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In order to develop a statewide bicycle and pedestrian planning document with meaningful input from interested citizens and local officials, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) contracted with the state’s regional development centers to produce regional planning documents.  Under the direction of GDOT, the Middle Flint Regional Development Center (MFRDC) developed a Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) and solicited input regarding bicycling and pedestrian issues from this group and from the public.  In 2004, the PAC held meetings on February 10, April 13, May 25, September 14, October 12, and November 23.  Public meetings were conducted on March 2 in Americus, March 9 in Cordele, and November 23 in Americus.  Although attendance at both PAC and public meetings was low, those persons in attendance were generally enthusiastic and provided valuable input.  From this information, MFRDC staff developed the “Goals and Objectives” and “Recommendations and Implementation Strategy” sections of this document.

 

The “Goals and Objectives,” and thus, the “Recommendations and Implementation Strategy,” identified by the PAC and public for the Middle Flint Region focus on the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians, the health benefits of increased physical activity from cycling or walking, and the potential economic benefit of increased tourism due to improved bicycling facilities.  Goals and recommendations generally include: developing and implementing public education campaigns for all ages that address both safety and health issues; maintaining and improving existing facilities to ensure safety and comfort; and identifying the need for and developing new facilities.

 Bicycling and pedestrian activities are generally limited in the Middle Flint Region.  As the region’s communities lack any significant transportation congestion, interest in alternative transportation modes such as cycling and walking is generally a reflection of personal recreational or fitness interest.  Nevertheless, the PAC recognizes that significant health and economic benefits could accrue to the region should bicycle and pedestrian planning goals and recommendations be addressed, encouraged, and implemented.  This document represents a “starting point” from which the Middle Flint Region’s citizens and communities can begin to understand and appreciate those benefits and develop policies, programs, and projects to promote them.