What Happened?
The city of Topeka recently finalized its Bikeways Master Plan that will be funded in part by a Kansas Department of Transportation grant. The city was awarded $1.4 million to implement the first phase of the bikeways strategy after applying to the state’s Transportation Enhancement program.
The Goal
The state and federal funding will be used to create 32 miles of bike lanes along nine routes throughout the city. The first phase of the plan will combine trails with streets that can be converted into bikeways easily for a more seamless pathway for residents not using a vehicle. Most of the initial construction will take place in central Topeka where there is the highest concentration of bikers and traffic. The strategy will fill in gaps where existing trails may be disconnected from major roadways, as well as connect Lake Shawnee to a citywide network of trails and paths.
Federal funding will account for 80 percent of the project’s costs, while Topeka is responsible for the remaining 20 percent. City engineers are designing the master plan, with Topeka municipality departments calling for $365,000 to complete the project, $280,000 for construction and $85,000 for designing. All five phases of the bikeways strategy are expected to be completed by 2026.
Master Plan
The Topeka Bikeways Master Plan has several goals to improve residential living and mobility, while encouraging reduced carbon emissions. Topeka officials plan to extend existing trails that connect urban amenities to park trails, as well as develop new multipurpose trails to increase options for all residents. The plan’s goals include:
- Increasing the number of people opting to bike around the city rather than use a car. This entails making biking an appealing option not only for recreational purposes but also as a means to get to work and other destinations.
- Making bicycles more accessible throughout the city. The new roadways and bike paths will be designed with key community destinations in mind so trip planning is easier
- Providing connecting links from residential and downtown neighborhoods to existing trails and greenways. The city wants to optimize all established bike routes and expand their use through additional links to different areas of Topeka
- Using bikeways to improve the city’s sustainability efforts by reducing carbon emissions, lowering vehicle and roadway maintenance costs, and encouraging daily physical activity for improved residential wellness
- Improving the safety of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians along city roadways. With more bikeways available, cyclists and pedestrians can take convenient routes away from busy streets and high traffic congestion
- Optimizing bikeways to increase tourism revenue and overall productivity of residents
Other Projects In Progress
Tualatin Valley in Oregon recently had its scenic bikeway project approved by the state. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission signed off on the construction of 50 more miles of bikeways through Forest Grove and Banks, arguing the paths will boost traffic to local businesses and encourage a more green lifestyle for residents.
Gov1 has also tracked the development of bike-sharing programs across the country and other green initiatives to enhance productivity.