Regional Active Transportation Plan Needs Your Input by Sept 14th
Calling all bike riders, walkers, and rollers in the Pikes Peak region! The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) is seeking your input on the final draft of their Active Transportation Plan, a key part of the region’s long-range transportation vision. We shared info on a survey that helped shape this plan in February 2024. This plan aims to make getting around by bike, foot, or wheelchair safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable for everyone.
What’s in the Plan?
The Active Transportation Plan focuses on creating a connected network of trails, bike lanes, and sidewalks throughout the region. While the plan includes recommendations for expanding our urban trail system, it also delves into on-street treatments, suggesting the best types of bike and pedestrian facilities for different road types.
One exciting aspect of the plan is the identification of priority corridors. These corridors represent key areas for investment in order to create a more seamless active transportation network. Here are a few that caught our eye at Bike Colorado Springs:
- Pinecreek Trail: This project would connect the Pikes Peak Greenway to Briargate, filling a crucial gap for cyclists and walkers in the northeast part of the region.
- Platte Corridor: This corridor would provide a direct eastbound connection from downtown, making it easier for people to get around the city without relying on cars.
- Sand Creek Trail: Completing the missing pieces of the Sand Creek Trail would create a valuable east-west connection across the region.
Demand Index analysis
Below is a selection of Demand Index analysis for some key corridors within the City of Colorado Springs. As part of this plan PPACG analyzed all of their identified active transportation corridors (PDF of all corridor analysis available here) including Population, Employment, Health Care, Retail, Parks and Schools
What Does This Mean for You?
The priority corridors are a great starting point, but the plan’s success depends on your voice! The PPACG is actively seeking public input to ensure the plan reflects the needs of the community. This is your chance to advocate for better biking and walking infrastructure in your neighborhood.
How to Get Involved:
- Read the Plan: Head over to the PPACG website to access the full Active Transportation Plan: link to the plan
- Share Your Thoughts: Let the PPACG know what you think! The comment period is open until September 14th.
- Spread the Word: Share this post with your friends and neighbors who care about active transportation.
Additional Note
One of Bike Colorado Springs’ biggest concerns is the need for improved infrastructure connectivity and consistency. Trails or bike lanes that abruptly end without clear direction can be dangerous and discouraging for people trying to get around by bike or walking. The Active Transportation Plan addresses this issue by focusing on creating a more connected network of trails, bike lanes, and sidewalks throughout the region.
By addressing these inconsistencies and working together, we can create a more seamless and user-friendly active transportation network for everyone in the Pikes Peak region.
By working together, we can create a Pikes Peak region where getting around by bike, foot, or wheelchair is a safe, convenient, and healthy option for everyone. Let’s get rolling!
