bicycle pedestrian advisory committee...
TRANSCRIPT
THE PLANNING COUNCIL AND METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION FOR PINELLAS COUNTY
1. CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS (8:30 – 8:35)
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 26, 2016 (8:35 – 8:40)
3. FORWARD PINELLAS ACTIONS – OCTOBER 12, 2016 (8:40 – 8:45)
4. WEST BAY DRIVE TRAIL HEAD PROJECT (8:45 – 8:55)
5. SAN MARTIN BOULEVARD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT STUDY (8:55 – 9:05)
6. 2016 TRAFFIC CRASH TRENDS AND CONDITIONS REPORT (9:05 – 9:30)
7. SUN TRAIL PROGRAM (9:30 – 9:40)
8. SPOTlight EMPHASIS AREAS UPDATE (9:40 – 9:45)
A Vision for U.S. Highway 19 Corridor
Gateway Area Master Plan
Enhancing Beach Community Access
9. BPAC BUSINESS (9:45 – 9:55) A. Nominations for 2017 BPAC Election of Officers B. Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) C. Pinellas Trails, Inc
10. AGENCY REPORTS (9:55 – 10:05)
11. OTHER BUSINESS (10:05 – 10:15) A. Membership B. Correspondence, Publications, Articles of Interest C. Suggestions for Future Agenda Topics D. Other
12. ADJOURNMENT (10:15)
NEXT BPAC MEETING – NOVEMBER 21, 2016
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact the Office of Human Rights, 400 South Fort Harrison Avenue, Suite 300, Clearwater, Florida 33756; [(727) 464-4062 (V/TDD)] at least seven days prior to the meeting.
Appeals: Certain public meetings result in actions taken by the public board, commission or agency that may be appealed; in such case persons are advised that, if they decide to appeal any decision made at a public meeting/hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and, for such purposes, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY
COMMITTEE (BPAC) MEETING AGENDA
October 17, 2016 – 8:30 a.m.
310 Court Street, 1st Floor Conf. Room
Clearwater, FL 33756
BPAC – October 17, 2016
2. Approval of Minutes The meeting summary for the September 26, 2016 meeting is attached for review and approval. ATTACHMENT: BPAC Meeting Summary – September 26, 2016 ACTION: Approval of Meeting Summary
PINELLAS COUNTY BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SUMMARY
September 26, 2016 The following is a summary of the Forward Pinellas Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) held on September 26, 2016 in the Pinellas County Planning Department Conference Room, First Floor, 310 Court Street, Clearwater, Florida.
BPAC Members Present Brian Smith, Chairman At Large Citizen Representative Geri Raja, Vice Chair South County Citizens Representative Becky Afonso North County Citizen Representative, Oldsmar Lynn Bosco At Large Citizen Representative Valerie Brookens City of Largo Megan Carmichael Department of Health - Pinellas Lucas Cruse St. Petersburg Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Win Dermody Clearwater Citizen RepresentativeLyle Fowler PC Parks & Conservation Resources (PCR) Eric Gibson PSCO Byron Hall Pinellas Park Citizen Representative Steve Lasky At Large Citizen Representative Charles Martin Dunedin Citizen Representative Casey Morse Pinellas County Public Works Jim Parent South Beaches Citizen Representative (St. Pete Beach) Ron Rasmussen Pinellas Park Citizen Representative Michael Siebel At Large Citizen Representative Jim Wedlake Seminole Citizen Representative Georgia Wildrick Largo Citizen Representative Robert Yunk At Large Citizen Representative Jacob Labutka PSTA BPAC Members Absent Charlene Cobb Sunstar Paramedics Kimberly Cooper St. Petersburg Citizen Representative Felicia Donnelly Clearwater Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Tom Ferraro North County Citizen Representative Julie Bond CUTR Edward Hawkes At Large Citizen Representative Chip Haynes Clearwater Citizen Representative Paul Kurtz At Large Citizen Representative Frank Lopez Largo Citizen Representative Anthony Matonti TBARTA Tom McGinty School System Representative Annette Sala At Large Citizen Representative Camille Soleil St. Petersburg Citizen Representative Bert Valery North Beaches Citizen Representative (Indian Rocks Beach) Others Present Doug Bentley Visitor/Citizen Daniel Alejandro City of Largo Citizen Menna Yassin FDOT Howard Frankland Bridge Project Manager Eric Trull Coast Bike Share Donald Hall Deputy Chief of Police, Clearwater Richard Hartman Street Smarts Florida – New Non-Profit Bike/Ped Safety Education Ray Raja South County Visitor Chris Keller Tindale Oliver Rodney Chatman Forward Pinellas Division Manager Al Bartolotta Forward Pinellas Special Projects Manager Sarah Perch Forward Pinellas Staff Maria Kelly Forward Pinellas Staff Susan Miller Forward Pinellas Staff
BPAC MEETING SUMMARY September 26, 2016
Page 2
1. CALL TO ORDER & INTRODUCTIONS
Chairman Brian Smith, At Large Citizen Representative, called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The summary from the August 15, 2016 BPAC meeting was approved as provided in the agenda packet. One correction was made to 11D reflecting Sands Point Drive.
3. FORWARD PINELLAS ACTIONS
Mr. Rodney Chatman, Forward Pinellas (FP) Division Manager, reviewed the actions from the Board’s September 13, 2016 meeting as provided in the agenda packet. In August, the committee received a presentation on Multimodal Transportation Priorities and had the opportunity to voice their concerns and choices of which bicycle/pedestrian projects (as well as road and transit) they would like to see completed. The Board approved the final Multimodal Priority list which included several of the bicycle/pedestrian projects to include Harn Boulevard Overpass and Starkey Road sidewalks. PSTA Activities Report on the Central Avenue Bus Rapid Transit, Public Technical Work and Outreach is pointing PSTA to St. Pete Beach as a terminus for the Central Avenue BRT project; however St. Pete Beach is not a member of PSTA, therefore they will need to find a way to commit some funding for the BRT to move forward in their direction. PSTA has also launched a Flamingo Fares pilot program which allows the use of a smart phone app to pay for fares on PSTA, Jolly Trolley and Looper. The PSTA Board also approved new Jolly Trolley/Looper agreements and expanding services on the Jolly Trolley Coastal Routes from a weekend service to a seven days a week service. An event to celebrate this is October 10th, 5:30 pm, in Dunedin. Discussions regarding the new rule change that puts forth requirements for a regional MPO resulted in the Board suggesting a study to look at the whole region to see what would work best.
*** WALK-ON ITEM*** HOWARD FRANKLAND BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT Ms. Menna Yassin, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), is the project manager for the Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) Studies for the Tampa Bay Express (TBX) Projects. Ms. Yassin shared a presentation to the committee on the Howard Frankland Bridge Replacement Project. This project covers replacement of the northbound span of the bridge, which is ending its serviceable life. FDOT will construct a new bridge, with additional reinforcements, west of the southbound lanes due to less impact on the environment. When transit comes to the area, an additional bridge will be built in the same place as the one coming down and the reinforced bridge will become the transit bridge. The additional reinforcements are for the sole purpose of future transit. Public hearings are scheduled for October 4th at 5:30 pm at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon and on October 6th at 5:30 pm at the Tampa Marriott Westshore. Ms. Yassin encourages everyone to attend. Questions were taken and appropriately answered.
4. US HIGHWAY 19/SR 55 SAFE ACCESS TO TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY
The US 19 Safe Access to Transit Corridor Study Summary Report was submitted to the committee by Mr. Chris Keller of Tindale Oliver and Associates. He updated the committee on identifying safety related solutions to pedestrian and bicyclist traffic along the US 19 corridor. The study produced several options for roadway and pedestrian overpasses and underpasses as well as a transit circulator. Roadway underpasses would be more helpful if designed into the project and overpasses would require additional ROW and non-motorized users would need to travel out of direction to access. Transit circulator integrate current bus stops with pedestrian and roadway overpasses to cross US 19. Chris is seeking approval of the summary report for review by Forward Pinellas Board. A motion was made to approve the summary report, it was seconded and the report was approved to go to the Forward Pinellas Board for review.
5. CLEARWATER ARTS ALLIANCE 1ST ANNUAL SIGNAL BOX BIKE RIDE
Mr. Chatman gave a brief overview on this item as Mr. Matt Campbell, with Clearwater Arts Alliance, was unable to attend. Clearwater Arts Alliance will hold its 1st Annual bike ride on October 17th. There are several signal boxes around downtown Clearwater, wrapped and embellished by local artists. The intent is for a bike ride around downtown Clearwater to stop and check out the art work.
BPAC MEETING SUMMARY September 26, 2016
Page 3
6. SEPTEMBER 20, 2016 REGIONAL TRI-COUNTY BPAC OVERVIEW Mr. Chatman gave a brief review on this item. Of the three BPAC’s, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas, Mr. Chapman commended the Pinellas BPAC in that we always have the most attendees at these Tri-County events, showing support and commitment to bicycle and pedestrian issues. There were several presentations, beginning with Pasco County’s Bicycle Safety Plan, related to the conflicts bicyclists are experiencing with the rancher/farmer interests in the northeast part of the county. Competitive cyclists use these rural roads for training, conflicting with tractors and farming equipment trucks. Hillsboro continues to work on their Vision ZERO project and the Health Impact assessment in the Town and Country area. Brian Smith discussed the SUN Trail funding and Mr. Chatman discussed the Green Bike Lanes project along Gulf Boulevard. Anthony Matonti with TBARTA gave a brief update on the Southwest Coastal Regional Trail Connector and Chris Speece with FDOT gave a brief update on Coast to Coast Connector Trail. In terms of the SUN Trail funding, the department is looking at programing projects for FY 2017 to include Courtney Campbell Overpass and one of the Duke Trail segments.
7. PEDESTRAIN SAFETY AWARENESS WEEK, OCTOBER 30 – NOVEMBER 5, 2016
Ms. Susan Miller, Forward Pinellas (FP) staff, reviewed the BPAC Proclamation for Pedestrian Safety Awareness Week. The month of October begins with National Walk Your Child to School Day at the beginning of October. In the middle of October, there are a couple of law enforcement safety week activities as well as school bus safety effort. This year BPAC has selected the week around Daylight Saving Time to highlight the need for pedestrian safety, especially around Halloween as it is twice as likely for a pedestrian child to be hurt by a vehicle during this time. A Proclamation was formed as a robust invite for other municipalities and agencies to join us in this important endeavor, to present to the Forward Pinellas Board. A motion was made to adopt this proclamation, it was seconded and approved to go to the Forward Pinellas Board for approval. .
8. SUN TRAIL PROGRAM Chairman Brian Smith updated the committee on the status of SUN Trail. Because SUN Trail did not spend the $25 million from the first year, therefore the second year is the first year, so there is $50 million in the funding for this year. The funding will be split in three ways: 1/3 to Coast to Coast, 1/3 to regional trail River to Sea and 1/3 to individual trails, i.e. Pinellas Trail. SUN Trail is a couple of weeks away from announcing the projects that will be funded. In years 2 – 5, funding will be based on due process on the next projects through March with the next available $25 million. Becky Afonso, North County Citizen Representative and Executive Director of the Florida Bicycle Association (FBA), and Brian Smith are on the Florida Greenways and Trails Council Inc. which just met in Miami prior to the BPAC meeting. Mr. Smith will let the committee know when the council meets again in Tampa. There is a website for the Florida Greenways Trails: http://dep.state.fl.us/gwt/default.htm
9. SPOTlight Emphasis Areas Update
Mr. Chatman updated the committee on the SPOTlight Emphasis Areas of enhancing Beach Access, US 19 Corridor and Gateway Expressway. A Waterborne Transportation Technical Forum will be held on October 7th at the Madeira Beach City Hall at 9:30 am presented by Forward Pinellas, focusing on the regulatory process and procedures of water taxi’s, and water ferry’s and building out these types of transportation. The SR 60 multimodal implementations strategy study has been launched looking at multimodal accessibility from Tampa International Airport out to Clearwater Beach. Along with the US 19/SR 55 Safe Access to Transit Corridor Study presentation, a land use economic assessment will be conducted with Pinellas County. Forward Pinellas staff is also developing a scope for the Gateway-Mid County strategic plan.
10. BPAC BUSINESS
A. Protected Intersection Mr. Chatman shared a video with the committee showing how the City of San Francisco has been constructing intersections to safely separate cars, bicycles and pedestrians at busy intersections. This video was well received.
B. Florida Bicycle Association
Ms. Afonso updated the committee on FBA’s recent activity. A current edition of the Messenger was provided with “Support Vision Florida” as the cover story. There is a petition supporting Vision Zero Florida, going to the
BPAC MEETING SUMMARY September 26, 2016
Page 4
legislators that says “Yes, Florida is interested in zero fatalities.” Members can sign on the website and sign the petition for support. FBA’s “Autumn Triple Play” has three events coming up. The first is the annual membership meeting in St. Petersburg at the main library auditorium on Saturday October 22nd from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. There are tables for local advocates. On October 28th and 29th is the Celebration of Cycling in Gainesville, FL where there will be a display of bicycle floats relating to kinetic energy. Finally the Horrible Hundred in November, Best Practices Workshop, with Hugh Aaron of Bike Walk Indian River to walk everyone through with the process of how Indian River Became a Bicycle Friendly Community. City of Oldsmar is having their finale of their Centennial Celebration at the track featuring an outdoor concert.
C. Pinellas Trails
Mr. Jim Wedlake, Seminole Citizen Representative, addressed the committee regarding the status of the SUN Trail project. There is meeting coming up November 2nd, at the Pinellas County Traffic Building for a tour of Traffic Engineering Operations. It is a public meeting and everyone was encouraged to attend. Flyer was provided in the agenda packets.
11. AGENCY REPORTS
Updated information was provided for the following items:
Tri-County Trail / Starkey Wilderness Trail & Brooker Creek Trail Chairman Smith stated the construction on the Tri-County Trail project is moving along.
Court Street / Chestnut Street Railroad Crossing Ms. Casey Morse, Pinellas County Public Works, reported on this crossing that the Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) was difficult to see and she referred the problem to Paul Bertel, City of Clearwater with FDOT for action. At Chestnut, you cannot tell if the light has come on when the button is pushed.
Elfers Trail Spur Mr. Chatman reported that the county and the City of Tarpon Springs are continuing to move in the direction of stabilization and as soon as they begin to turn dirt, notification will go out.
Belleair Road / U.S. Highway 19 Trail Crossing Ms. Morse reported that FDOT has assured that the crosswalk would be relocated closer to the intersection for improved visibility at the Belleair / U.S. Highway 19 intersection, shortly. It was brought up that the light at that intersection does not allow time for pedestrians to get across. The bus stops on the north end of the intersection with no crosswalk for the bus riders. Therefore the people who get off the bus cross without the crosswalk. Mr. Jacob Labutka, PSTA representative, will inquire about the bus stop itself.
Orange Street Overpass Mr. Lyle Fowler, Parks and Conservation Resources, said the Orange Street overpass span-replacement project is currently in the design/bid phase.
St. Petersburg Bike Share Program Mr. Lucas Cruse, St. Petersburg Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator updated the committee on this Bike Share program in that permits and site prep is currently being completed and they are on track for the pilot program to begin on November 1st with the full launch to follow shortly thereafter. St. Petersburg is about to announce the opening of their Municipal Service Center (MSC) Bike Room for bicycle parking, available to all employees. A number of new bike racks were placed in and around the parks and they are currently updating the city’s bike map. October 9th, 1:00 to 5:00 pm is the St. Petersburg Open Streets event at Mirror Lake and Williams Park downtown.
SHINE Mural Festival & Arts Program Ms. Miller shared an article in the agenda packet sharing information on the City of St. Petersburg partnering with local artists and educators to expand the “My Sunshine City” Campaign.
BPAC MEETING SUMMARY September 26, 2016
Page 5
Ulmerton/Walsingham Sidewalks Ms. Miller spoke on the subject of no sidewalks at the Walsingham and Ulmerton intersection. When the Wawa was constructed, the county went in and made some beautiful crosswalks and concrete area for pedestrians to walk in front of the Wawa, but there is still an issue to get people across at the signals because there was no place for them to walk. FDOT and Public Works are currently consorting to come up with a plan to create a better pedestrian crossing. It was also brought up that the buttons to work the crosswalks were not properly working and there is a phone number to call 727-464-8926, for assistance
12. OTHER BUSINESS A. Membership
There are no current vacancies on the BPAC. There was no further discussion regarding membership.
B. Correspondence, Publications, Articles of Interest Mr. Mike Siebel, At Large Citizen Representative, had an observation on the first page of the National Highway of Traffic Safety report where it showed 10 years of fatalities to include pedestrian fatalities and that auto fatalities has gone down significantly but pedestrian fatalities has stayed the same and this is not good.
C. Suggestions for Future Agenda Topics
There were no requests or suggestion for future agenda topics.
D. Other On 102nd Avenue and Duhme Road at St. Pete College Campus there is no crosswalk and this appears on the BP funding projects list. In inquiry was made as to what the status of this would be. Courtney Campbell Trail, the parking on the Clearwater side, FDOT is giving that property back to Clearwater (or at least a long term lease). There is no signage and it is overgrown. Follow up with Clearwater regarding the status of the this property.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Smith adjourned the meeting at 10:45 am. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 17, 2016.
BPAC – October 17, 2016
3. Forward Pinellas Actions – October 12, 2016
The October 12, 2016 Action Sheet will be distributed at the meeting for your information. A staff member will review actions taken by the Forward Pinellas Board at the meeting. ATTACHMENT: Action Sheet – October 12, 2016 (will be provided at the meeting) ACTION: None Required, Informational Item Only
BPAC – October 17, 2016
4. West Bay Drive Trail Head Project
The West Bay Drive Trail Head Project will connect the Pinellas Trail with the Downtown Largo neighborhoods and commercial center. The project is intended to add seven (7) access points to the study area. In addition to the access, the capital improvement project will provide landscaping and amenities to areas in and around the Pinellas Trail and West Bay Drive. Concept design for the project is underway with construction of the project to begin in FY 2018. The project area involves the Pinellas Trail and the areas adjacent to the Pinellas Trail from Washington Avenue SW to 4th Avenue NW. The final design improvements were presented to the Largo City Commission at its September 13, 2016 work session. The presentation document is online and the presentation video can be viewed online. The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a multi-use urban trail currently extending from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg and is a multi-use trail everyone can enjoy. Largo is fortunate to have over 3 miles of existing Pinellas Trail, however, there are minimal access points off of the trail to the community. In order to benefit from this countywide amenity, the City of Largo is proposing to construct pedestrian and bicycle access and trail head improvements along the Pinellas Trail within the West Bay Drive Community Redevelopment District. This area is considered part of the City's traditional urban core and downtown, and is home to a diverse group of businesses and historic neighborhoods. The improvements to the trail access points will address informational signage and new trail amenities for all to use. Please welcome Ms. Teresa Brydon, City of Largo, as she provides information about the West Bay Drive Trail Head Project.
ATTACHMENT: West Bay Trail Head Project Concept Drawings ACTION: None Required, Informational Item Only
WEST BAY DRIVE TRAIL HEAD Project Concepts
www.largo.com/egov/apps/document/center.egov?view=item;id=11122
BPAC – October 17, 2016
5. San Martin Boulevard Bridge Replacement Study Pinellas County is conducting a Project Development & Environment (PD&E) study for the rehabilitation or replacement of the existing San Martin Boulevard Bridge which goes over Riviera Bay. The limits of the bridge study are from Tallahassee Drive to Weedon Drive in St. Petersburg, Florida. A second component of the project will evaluate trail enhancements from Macoma Drive to Gandy Boulevard. The study of San Martin Bridge is needed in order to address the deficiencies of the existing bridge. The bridge was constructed in 1962 and is nearing the end of its service life. The existing bridge does not meet current design standards and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Trail enhancements have been identified as priorities in the City of St. Petersburg’s Trail Program, Pinellas County’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s North Bay Trail/Rio Vista Trail connection priority in the Long Range Transportation Plan. The trail component of the study will evaluate the opportunities to connect the North Bay Trail, which currently ends at Macoma Drive, with the Friendship Trail at Gandy Boulevard. Safe crossing locations will also be identified during the evaluation process. This study is expected to take approximately 18 months. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the environmental, engineering, and social impacts for the rehabilitation or replacement of San Martin Bridge. The study will focus on three alternatives for the bridge including a no-build option, rehabilitating the existing bridge, or replacement with a new fixed bridge. Information may be found online at: www.pinellascounty.org/sanmartinbridge. ATTACHMENT: San Martin Bridge Project Fact Sheet ACTION: BPAC to Recommend a Preferred Alternative
Project DetailsPinellas County is conducting a Project Development & Environment (PD&E) study for the rehabilitation or replacement of the existing San Martin Bridge over Riviera Bay. The limits of the bridge study are from Tallahassee Drive to Weedon Drive in St. Petersburg, Florida. A second component of the project will evaluate trail enhancements from Macoma Drive to Gandy Boulevard.
What is the Purpose of the Study?The purpose of the study is to evaluate the environmental, engineering, and social impacts for the rehabilitation or replacement of San Martin Bridge. Various roadway improvements, bridge types, and bridge locations will be evaluated including left, center, or right of the existing bridge. The study will focus on three alternatives for the bridge including:
• No Build• Rehabilitation of the Existing Bridge• Replacement of a New Fixed Bridge
*A movable option will be evaluated for cost comparison only.
The trail enhancement component of the study will evaluate the opportunities to connect the North Bay Trail, which currently ends at Macoma Drive, with the Friendship Trail at Gandy Boulevard. Safe crossing locations will also be identified during the evaluation process. This study is expected to take approximately 18 months.
Project Fact SheetSan Martin Boulevard over Riviera BayBridge Replacement PD&E Study
1
Contact InformationProject ManagerNancy McKibben, MPAPinellas County, Dept. of Environment and Infrastructure13 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater, FL 33756(727) 464-4812 [email protected] Websitehttp://www.pinellascounty.org/sanmartinbridge
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons with disabilities requiring reasonable accommodations under the American with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation service (free of charge) should call Ms. McKibben or the Office of Human Rights at (727) 464-4062 (VOICE/TDD) at least seven days prior to the meeting.
Why is the Project Needed?The study of San Martin Bridge is needed in order to address the deficiencies of the existing bridge. The bridge was constructed in 1962 and is nearing the end of its service life. The existing bridge does not meet current design standards and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Vertical profile alternatives will be evaluated for increasing the clearance at the bridge crossing. The trail enhancements have been identified as priorities in the City of St. Petersburg’s Trail Program, Pinellas County’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s North Bay Trail/Rio Vista Trail connection priority in the Long Range Transportation Plan.
This study is being undertaken in accordance with the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. The NEPA process will allow the County the opportunitiy to apply for federal grant funding.
Process and Schedule
2
BPAC – October 17, 2016
6. 2016 Traffic Crash Trends and Conditions Report
Forward Pinellas provides countywide transportation crash data to the public as well as other public agencies on an ongoing basis. This includes the production of an annual report, which provides information and analysis of crash trends and locations. This information is used for various purposes, including transportation safety studies and projects, prioritization of roadway improvements, targeted law enforcement activities, and design plans for road construction projects. Forward Pinellas staff will give a presentation summarizing the contents of the 2016 Traffic Crash Trends and Conditions Report. ATTACHMENT: 2016 Traffic Crash Trends and Conditions Report (will be distributed separately) ACTION: BPAC to recommend approval of the 2016 Traffic Crash Trends and Conditions Report
BPAC – October 17, 2016
7. SUN Trail Program In 2015, the Florida legislature agreed to set aside funds each year for the development and construction of paved shared use non-motorized trail projects - SUN Trails. The SUN Trails Program (www.floridasuntrail.org/) was created to connect existing local and/or regional systems and close existing gaps by coordinating efforts across the state. The 275-mile Coast-to-Coast Trail was chosen as the first system to be funded for construction. Each year FDOT will allocate $25 M from auto tag fees to fund SUN Trail projects. At its March 2016 meeting, the Florida Greenways and Trails Council selected three from the remaining seven regional trails with the St. John’s River to Sea Loop receiving the highest priority, the Capital City to the Sea Trails receiving second highest priority, and the Southwest Coastal Regional Trail (which includes the remaining Duke Energy Trail gaps) was third. FDOT continues to determine how project phases for regional trails will be included in the Five-Year Work Program, along the selection of individual trails to receive SUN Trail funding. Additional information will be provided at the BPAC meeting. ATTACHMENT: Florida Greenways & Trails SUN Trail Regional Priority Trail Connectors ACTION: None, Informational Item Only
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LegendCoast to Coast Regional Connector - 250 milesHeart of Florida Regional Connector - 135 milesNortheast Coast Regional Connector / East Coast Greenway - 200 milesSouthwest Coast Regional Connector 225 milesNature Coast Regional Connector - 175 milesOld Florida Regional Connector - 100 milesGreat Northwest Coast Regional Connector - 275 milesRiver of Grass Greenway - 100 milesTropical Terminus / East Coast Greenway - 250 milesFlorida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail - 100 milesSt Johns River to Sea Regional Connector - 90 milesAll Aboard Florida Regional Connector - 230 MilesCapital City to the Sea Trails - 85 MilesNortheast Florida Regional Connector - 130 MilesOther Priority Trails
Atlant icOcean
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TITLE Data Source: FDEP OGTBasemap courtesy of Florida Department of TransportationPrepared Date: July 7, 2015This map is for display purpose only. Any other use is not advised.Engineering - Landscape Architecture - Planning - GIS
Regional PriorityRegional PriorityTrail ConnectorsTrail Connectors
GEORGIA
ALABAMA
MISSISSIPPI
50 0 50
Miles
Northeast FloridaNortheast FloridaRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
St. Johns River to SeaSt. Johns River to SeaRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
Tropical Terminus /Tropical Terminus /East Coast GreenwayEast Coast Greenway
Florida KeysFlorida KeysOverseas Heritage TrailOverseas Heritage Trail
River of GrassRiver of GrassGreenwayGreenway
Southwest CoastSouthwest CoastRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
Heart of FloridaHeart of FloridaRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
Nature CoastNature CoastRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
Great Northwest CoastGreat Northwest CoastRegional ConnectorRegional Connector
Coast to CoastCoast to CoastRegional ConnectorRegional ConnectorOld FloridaOld Florida
Regional ConnectorRegional Connector
Printing Date: 7/7/2015 11:53:44 AMFile:\\FILE-TPA\projects\8586\004\GIS\MXD\20150629-RegionalPriorityTrailConnectors-2-11x17.mxd
Northeast CoastNortheast CoastRegional Connector / Regional Connector / East Coast GreenwayEast Coast Greenway
Capital City toCapital City tothe Sea Trailsthe Sea Trails
All AboardAll AboardFlorida RegionalFlorida Regional
ConnectorConnector
BPAC – October 17, 2016
8. SPOTlight Emphasis Areas
Staff will provide a brief update on the status of the activities related to the three SPOTlight Emphasis Areas.
ATTACHMENT: None ACTION: None Required, Informational Item Only
BPAC – October 17, 2016
9. A.-C. BPAC Business A. Nominations for 2017 BPAC Election of Officers
In accordance with the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) Bylaws, the Committee elects a Chairman and Vice Chairman at the last regularly scheduled meeting of each year. This year, the Election of Officers will take place at the November 21, 2016 meeting. Currently, Brian Smith is the Chairman and Geri Raja is the Vice Chair. A copy of the current BPAC membership is attached.
ATTACHMENT: BPAC Membership List – October 2016 ACTION: BPAC to Nominate a Chairman and Vice Chairman to serve in 2017
B. Florida Bicycle Association (FBA)
The Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) was created in 1997 as an advocacy organization focused on protecting and improving the bicycling environment and policies in Florida. The FBA is actively involved in Tallahassee, works with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and partners with many other organizations and agencies. Safety education is one of FBA’s priorities, and several publications and programs provide education and training for cyclists, motorists, law enforcement, educators and the general public. For more information, see the website, floridabicycle.org. Ms. Becky Afonso, FBA Executive Director, will provide an update regarding FBA activities along with a brief legislative update.
C. Pinellas Trails, Inc.
A representative from Pinellas Trails, Inc. may take this opportunity to provide updated information for the BPAC.
October 2016
BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP LIST Voting St. Petersburg Area (St. Pete/Gulfport/So Pasadena/Tierra Verde)
1. Camille Soleil (01/13/16) 2. Kimberly Cooper (10/13/99) 3. Geri Raja (VC) (09/09/09)
Clearwater Area
4. Chip Haynes (04/13/11) 5. Robert Yunk (02/09/05) 6. Win Dermody (03/12/14)
Dunedin Area
7. Charles Martin (04/08/09)
Pinellas Park and Mid-County
8. Ronald Rasmussen (12/13/06) 9. Byron Virgil Hall, Jr., (12/13/06)
Largo Area
10. Daniel Alejandro (to be appointed 10/12/2016) 11. Georgia Wildrick (08/16/06)
North County Area (Tarpon Springs/Palm Harbor/Ozona/Oldsmar/Safety Harbor)
12. Tom Ferraro (04/09/03) 13. Becky Afonso (10/08/14)
At Large Area
14. Paul Kurtz (12/11/13) 15. Mike Siebel (03/14/12) 16. Brian Smith (Chairman) (12/12/12) 17. Lynn Bosco (11/14/12) 18. Steve Lasky (11/14/12) 19. Ed Hawkes (11/18/98) 20. Annette Sala (03/12/14)
Seminole Area
21. Jim Wedlake (05/12/10)
Beach Communities
22. Bert Valery (10/1983-10/1998) (reappointed 07/10/02) 23. Jim Parent (04/13/16)
Technical Support
1. County Traffic Department (Tom Washburn – Representative, Gina Harvey and Casey Morse – alternates)
2. County Parks and Conservation Resources (Lyle Fowler – Representative, Spencer Curtis – alternate)
3. PSTA (Chris Cochran – Representative; Heather Sobush and Kristina Tranel – alternates) 4. City of Clearwater (Felicia Donnelly) 5. City of St. Petersburg (Lucas Cruse as Representative and Cheryl Stacks as alternate) 6. City of Largo (Valerie Brookens as Representative and Christine McLachlan as alternate) 7. Pinellas County School System (Tom McGinty) 8. TBARTA (Anthony Matonti – Representative; Michael Case 1st alternate and Ramond
Chiramonte 2nd alternate) 9. Pinellas County Health Department (Megan Carmichael) 10. CUTR (Julie Bond) 11. Sunstar Paramedics (Charlene Cobb, Community Outreach Coordinator) Sheriff's Office /Police/Law Enforcement Representatives
1. Pinellas Park Police Dept. 2. St Petersburg Police Dept. 3. Largo Police Dept. 4. Sheriff’s Office – Deputy Eric Gibson 5. Clearwater Police Dept. – Deputy Chief Donald Hall Non-Voting Technical Support
(Chris Speece – FDOT)
BPAC – October 17, 2016
10. Agency Reports The BPAC is tasked with reviewing and advising Forward Pinellas on bicycle and pedestrian-related system development, and related issues and priorities. The Committee also may assist communities with development of bikeway and pedestrian facilities, recommend safer bicycling and walking provisions, and promote a safer roadway environment. Updated information on the following programs or projects of interest to the BPAC will be provided at the meeting.
Tri-County Trail Project – Starkey Wilderness Trail and Brooker Creek Trail
Court Street / Chestnut Street RR Crossing and Trail Crossings
Elfers Trail Spur
Belleair Road / U.S. Highway 19 Trail Crossing
Orange Street Overpass
St. Petersburg Bike Share Program
National Bike Ped Documentation Project Update ATTACHMENT(S): 2040 LRTP Multi-Use Trail Facilities map, 2014 ACTION: None Required, Informational Item Only
Tampa Bay
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
MANATEE COUNTY
Gulf of Mexico
Whitcomb Trail
KLOSTERMAN RD
Starkey Wilderness Trail(Part of Tri-County Trail)
Bee Pond Trail
Dunedin Loop TrailHoneymoonIsland Trail
Bayshore Trail(Clearwater)
Enterprise Trail
Old Coachman Road Trail
Ream Wilson Clearwater TrailBelleair
Cswy Trail
SeminoleSPC Trail Spur
Treasure IslandCswy Trail
Bayway Trail North
Historic Booker Creek Trail
Island Loop Trail
Pinellas Trail / Chesnut
Ross Norton Conn.
Clearwater Beach
Conn Trail
Trinity Blvd Trail
WalsinghamTrail
Largo Central Park Trail
Bay Pines Blvd Trail
South Beaches Trail
South Beaches Trail
Gulfport Trails
Bayway Trail North
Downtown Connection Trail (Part of the Pinellas Trail Loop)
Gandy Blvd Trail
CR 39 Trail
Meres Trail Ext.
Keystone Road Trail(Part of Tri-County Trail)
Oldsmar Trails
Bayshore Trail (Safety Harbor)
Main St Trail
Courtney Campbell Conn.
126th Ave Trail
71st St Ext.
Weedon Island Trail
Walter Fuller Trail
Disston Ave Trail
CSX Corridor
Sawgrass Lake Trail
Michigan Trail
Landmark Trail
Ft Desoto Park Trail
Elfers Spur
62nd Ave Trail
Druid Trail
Curlew Road Trail
Meres Trail
Skyway Trail
Joe's Creek Trail
Belleair Road Trail
SPC Trail
Howard Park Trail
North Bay Trail (Part of the Pinellas Trail Loop)
Lake SeminoleTrail
142nd AveTrail
Bayway Trail South
Douglas Rd Trail
Trinity Trail
Taylor Trail
Northern Route
Courtney Campbell CswyTrail
Cultural Facilities Trail
Friendship Trail
Gateway Nature Trail
Edgewater TrailNorth Greenwood
Loop
E Lake Tarpon Canal Trail
Clearwater Beach Trail
Oldsmar/Safety Harbor Crossing Trail
Freedom Lake Trail
28th St N Trail
Brooker Creek Trail
I-275
4TH
ST N
66TH
ST N
49TH
ST N
TAMPA RD
CR 1
PARK BLVD N
SR 580
ULMERTON RD
US 19
A
5TH AVE N9TH AVE N
54TH AVE N
22ND AVE N
38TH AVE N
DREW ST
1ST AVE S1ST AVE N
EAST
LAKE
RD
30TH AVE N
34TH
ST S
CENTRAL AVE
PARK
ST N
113T
H ST N
58TH
ST N
CURLEW RD
DRUID RD
MAIN ST
STAR
KEY R
D
46TH AVE N
KEYSTONE RD
18TH AVE S
BELLEAIR RD
SUNSET POINT RD
EAST BAY DR
I-175
54TH AVE S
BELC
HER
RDUS
HIG
HWAY
19 N
SR 590
11TH AVE S
GULF BLVD
CLEVELAND ST
58TH
ST S
86TH AVE N
62ND AVE N
BAYSIDE BRIDGE
26TH AVE S
118TH AVE N
I-375
126TH AVE N
LAKEVIEW RD
LANDMARK DR
ANCLOTE RD
VIRGINIA ST
62ND AVE S
CR 39
MERES BLVD
16TH
ST N
COURT ST
GULF RD
98TH
ST N
SOLON AVECR 61
1
SEMI
NOLE
BLVD
62ND
ST N
BELTREES ST
BAY S
T
ROSERY RD NE
BELC
HER
RD
µ0 5 102.5 Miles
Overpass at SR 580 and St Petersburg Dr(planned)
Overpass at SR 60 and Bayshore (planned)
*
*
***
**
**
**
**
2040 Pinellas LRTP Multi-Use Trail Facilities
LegendExisting Community Trail Existing Pinellas TrailProposed Community TrailProposed Pinellas Trail Circle Lake Tarpon TrailRemaining Gaps in the Pinellas Trail Loop
Duke Energy Florida Trail includessection of Pinellas Trail Loop betweenTampa Road and San Martin Blvd
Trail OverpassTrail Underpass
BPAC – October 17, 2016 11. A-D. Other Business
A. Membership There are no current vacancies on the BPAC membership list. ATTACHMENT: BPAC Membership List (please see Item 9.A.) ACTION: None Required, Informational Item Only
B. Correspondence, Publications, Articles of Interest
NHTSA Traffic Fatalities Up Sharply in 2015, August 29, 2016
USDOT Issues Federal Policy for Safe Testing and Deployment of Automated Vehicles, Sept 20, 2016
U-Turns on Roosevelt Boulevard, October 4, 2016
USDOT Zero Deaths, October 5, 2016
Bikeology Curriculum
PICH Project with Forward Pinellas – September 2016
C. Suggestions for Future Agenda Topics This item is provided to allow Committee members to suggest topics for future BPAC agendas.
D. Other If any member has other business to discuss, they may address it under this item.
TRAFFIC FATALITIES UP SHARPLY IN 2015 White House and DOT issue call to action to data scientists and public health experts as
2,348 more people died in traffic crashes compared to previous year Contact: Kathryn Henry / [email protected] August 29, 2016
WASHINGTON - The nation lost 35,092 people in traffic crashes in 2015, ending a 5-decade trend of declining fatalities with a 7.2% increase in deaths from 2014. The final data released today by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed traffic deaths rising across nearly every segment of the population. The last single-year increase of this magnitude was in 1966, when fatalities rose 8.1% from the previous year. "Despite decades of safety improvements, far too many people are killed on our nation’s roads every year," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. "Solving this problem will take teamwork, so we're issuing a call to action and asking researchers, safety experts, data scientists, and the public to analyze the fatality data and help find ways to prevent these tragedies.” Ten years ago, the number of traffic deaths was nearly 25% higher, with 42,708 fatalities reported nationwide in 2005. Since then, safety programs have helped lower the number of deaths by increasing seat belt use and reducing impaired driving. Vehicle improvements, including air bags and electronic stability control, have also contributed to reducing traffic fatalities. In response to the increase, DOT, NHTSA, and the White House are issuing an unprecedented call to action to involve a wide range of stakeholders in helping determine the causes of the increase. NHTSA will share its Fatality Analysis Reporting System with safety partners, state and local officials, technologists, data scientists, and policy experts. And private sector partners using new data collection technologies will be offering access to unprecedented amounts of data and new visualizations tools. According to NHTSA, job growth and low fuel prices were two factors that led to increased driving, including increased leisure driving and driving by young people. More driving can contribute to higher fatality rates. In 2015, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) increased 3.5% over 2014, the largest increase in nearly 25 years. Pedestrian and pedalcyclist fatalities increased to a level not seen in 20 years. Motorcyclist deaths increased over 8%. NHTSA also noted human factors continued to contribute to the majority of crashes. Almost half of passenger vehicle occupants killed were not wearing seat belts. Research shows almost one in three fatalities involved drunk drivers or speeding. One in 10 fatalities involved distraction. Click here for a 2015 Lives Saved Research Note. Click here for a 2015 Overview. "The data tell us that people die when they drive drunk, distracted, or drowsy, or if they are speeding or unbuckled," said NHTSA Administrator, Dr. Mark Rosekind. "While there have been enormous improvements in many of these areas, we need to find new solutions to end traffic fatalities." In addition to the call to action on understanding the increase in deaths, USDOT will hold a special session at its Safer People, Safer Streets Summit on September 16th to discuss the pedestrian and bicycle fatality increase with city leaders taking part in the Mayor's Challenge.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
www.nhtsa.gov/About-NHTSA/Press-Releases/traffic%E2%80%93fatalities%E2%80%932015
U.S. DOT ISSUES FEDERAL POLICY FOR SAFE TESTING AND DEPLOYMENT OF AUTOMATED VEHICLES Four-Part Policy Lays the Foundation for the Next Revolution in Roadway Safety Contact: DOT Press Office, 202-366-4570, [email protected] September 20, 2016 WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Transportation is issuing Federal policy for automated vehicles, laying a path for the safe testing and deployment of new auto technologies that have enormous potential for improving safety and mobility for Americans on the road. “Automated vehicles have the potential to save thousands of lives, driving the single biggest leap in road safety that our country has ever taken,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “This policy is an unprecedented step by the federal government to harness the benefits of transformative technology by providing a framework for how to do it safely.” The policy sets a proactive approach to providing safety assurance and facilitating innovation through four key parts. Vehicle performance guidance uses a 15-point Safety Assessment to set clear expectations for manufacturers developing and deploying automated vehicle technologies. Model state policy delineates the Federal and State roles for the regulation of highly automated vehicle technologies as part of an effort to build a consistent national framework of laws to govern self-driving vehicles. Finally, the policy outlines options for the further use of current federal authorities to expedite the safe introduction of highly automated vehicles into the marketplace, as well as discusses new tools and authorities the federal government may need as the technology evolves and is deployed more widely. “Ninety-four percent of crashes on U.S. roadways are caused by a human choice or error,” said NHTSA Administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind. “We are moving forward on the safe deployment of automated technologies because of the enormous promise they hold to address the overwhelming majority of crashes and save lives.” The Federal Automated Vehicle Policy released today is a product of significant public input and stakeholder discussions, including two open public meetings this year and an open public docket for comments. The Department is also soliciting additional public comments for the next 60 days on the policy, which is published at www.transportation.gov/AV. Through a series of next steps and in response to public comments, DOT intends to update the policy annually. “Public input has been essential to getting this right. There has been a strong call from state and local governments, industry, safety experts, mobility advocates, and average Americans to establish a clear policy for the deployment of automated vehicles on our roads,” said Secretary Foxx. “There are huge upsides and significant challenges that come with automated vehicle technology, and we will continue the conversation with the pubic over the coming months and years as this technology develops.” Moving beyond the traditional U.S. auto regulation approach of reactive, post-sale enforcement of safety standards, the policy is a proactive measure. A March 2016 study by DOT’s Volpe notes that current Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards do not directly address automated vehicle technologies. Those standards can take many years to develop and are traditionally only put into force after new technologies have made significant market penetration. Instead, the automated vehicle policy envisions greater transparency as DOT works with manufacturers to ensure that safety is appropriately addressed on the front-end of development. “New technologies developed in the 20th century, like seat belts and air bags, were once controversial but have now saved hundreds of thousands of American lives,” Secretary Foxx said. “This is the first in a series of proactive approaches, including the release of a rule on Vehicle to Vehicle communications, which will bring lifesaving technologies to the roads safely and quickly while leaving innovators to dream up new safety solutions.” More details about the policy may be found at www.transportation.gov/AV.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
www.nhtsa.gov/About-NHTSA/Press-Releases/dot%E2%80%93federal%E2%80%93policy%E2%80%93for%E2%80%93automated%E2%80%93vehicles%E2%80%9309202016
U-TURNS ON ROOSEVELT BOULEVARD REQUIRE CAUTION by Lorrie Lykins, Times Correspondent October 4, 2016
Since they fixed up the Roosevelt Boulevard and Dodge Street area to accommodate Walmart, we now have a big problem at Dodge and Roosevelt. People are coming up to the light from the west to make U-turns and putting pedestrians and right-hand turners at risk. We desperately need a "No U-turn" sign. Please see what can be done before someone gets hurt or killed there. - Joan Bichsel
We passed your note along to the state Department of Transportation and Kevin Dunn, traffic services and signing pavement manager looked into this. The DOT studied the intersection and Dunn said last week that they did not find any record so far of U-turn-related crashes involving eastbound traffic moving westbound at Dodge. It's important to note that those making legal U-turns at this location have the right-of-way versus southbound traffic turning right on a red signal. Part of the consideration in weighing whether or not to allow U-turns is the ripple effect such restrictions have on traffic movement and patterns both upstream and downstream of the intersection. In this case it would mean forcing traffic to the next available median opening (basically relocating the issue). Part of the issue here is the likely increased U-turn volume as a result of drivers wanting to avoid the long traffic signal cycle and congestion at U.S. 19. Dunn said this could be the case, but that the cycle length of the traffic signals here needs to be long in order to move traffic effectively through this heavily traveled area. In addition, the Wawa store that opened in this location last year has added to the traffic volume, as does, as we all well know, the winter season and the influx of snowbirds. For now, no changes are planned, but it's worth mentioning that folks should be alert to the increased incidence of U-turns at Roosevelt Boulevard and Dodge Street. Can you provide an update on the construction at 38th Avenue N and 58th Street please? I remember reading it was scheduled to be completed by mid-August, but here we are approaching mid-October and it doesn't seem to be even close. I have a bet going on that the new Rally station at the corner of 66th Street and 46th Avenue N will be completed sooner. - Steven Blanchard
The intersection improvement project, which began in late June and has required lane closures, is scheduled to wrap up Oct. 28, according to the latest update provide by Pinellas County Public Works. Keep your fingers crossed. Barricade watch On Park Street at 54th Avenue N, the southbound curb lane is closed, as is the westbound left-hand turn lane, due to repair work to a damaged 36-inch reclaimed water supply line. Pinellas County Public Works cautioned last week that there may be the need to shift traffic lanes and there will definitely be delays as the repairs progress. Work is expected to last until approximately Oct. 21.
© 2016 All Rights Reserved Tampa Bay Times
www.tampabay.com/news/transportation/roads/u-turns-on-roosevelt-boulevard-require-caution/2296492
FEDS SET GOAL: NO TRAFFIC DEATHS WITHIN 30 YEARS
by Nathan Bomey October 5, 2016
ARLINGTON, Va.—The Obama administration on Wednesday committed to a goal of eliminating traffic deaths within 30 years, setting a timeline for the first time on an ambitious agenda that relies heavily on the auto industry's development of self-driving cars.
The Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other agencies committed to the objective after a sharp uptick in roadway deaths.
2015 marked the deadliest year on American roads since 2008, an unsettling revelation that renewed efforts to combat distracted driving and encourage the development of safety systems. In the first half of 2016, deaths spiked 10.4% to 17,775, compared to a year earlier, according to preliminary NHTSA estimates released Wednesday.
"All of a sudden we're losing ground," NHTSA administrator Mark Rosekind said at an event in Arlington, Va. "We have an immediate crisis on our hands and we also have a long-term challenge."
Although U.S. auto-safety regulators had previously said their goal was to someday eliminate road fatalities altogether, Wednesday's announcement marks the first time they've identified a specific timeline.
NHTSA is scrambling to determine the exact reasons for the recent spike in deaths, though regulators suspect that distracted driving and an increase in overall miles traveled, which is directly connected with low gasoline prices, are partially to blame.
"All this death and injury is avoidable," Transportation Deputy Secretary Victor Mendez told supporters and journalists. "We simply have to remain focused and not let up on this."
For starters, NHTSA, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and National Safety Council will coordinate efforts to promote safe driving through a campaign called Road to Zero, which will include marketing efforts and the installation of basic safety infrastructure such as rumble strips. The Transportation Department will spend $1 million per year for the next three years on grants.
But those baby steps belie what will become a much more substantive push to promote the development of self-driving cars, road infrastructure that can communicate with vehicles and advanced safety systems in vehicles.
It's an especially ambitious goal — some might say unrealistic — especially considering that the number of people killed on the road in the U.S. soared 7.2% to 35,092 in 2015, marking the deadliest year on the road since 2008.
What's more, self-driving cars are making advancements but are nowhere near ready to take over the road. For now, the only autonomous vehicle technology available to consumers is limited automated steering, braking and accelerating on the highway in luxury models such as Tesla Motors electric vehicles.
Rosekind called the plan "achievable and feasible," though the Transportation Department said details on reaching the goal remain in development.
“Reaching zero deaths will be difficult, will take time and will require significant effort from all of us but it is the only acceptable vision,” FHWA Deputy Administrator David Kim said in a statement. “We're not at zero yet, but by working together, the day will come when there are no fatalities on the nation's roadways, sidewalks or bicycle paths."
© 2016 USA TODAY a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC.
www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2016/10/05/nhtsa-traffic-deaths-self-driving-cars-vehicles/91597722/
BICYCLE SAFETY CURRICULUM In September 2008 SHAPE America received a $324,000 grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to create, implement, and evaluate a nationwide bicycle safety curriculum. SHAPE America and NHTSA collaborated to develop a fun, engaging curriculum that teachers and recreation professionals will use to teach safe bicycling to children in elementary school, middle school, high school, and recreation centers.
Bikeology is a ready-to-use bicycle-safety curriculum for physical education teachers and recreation specialists working with students in grades 6-12. This curriculum (part 1 and part 2) is aligned with the National Standards for K-12 Physical Education and includes lessons and assessments for the skills and knowledge students need to enjoy a lifetime of safe bicycling. It also includes a guide to share with parents that provides ways in which they can support safe bicycling, including guidance on selecting an appropriate bicycle and helmet for their child. Funding and technical support for this project provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
1900 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191
www.shapeamerica.org/publications/resources/teachingtools/qualitype/bicycle_curriculum.cfm
Bikeology Curriculum and Parent Guide
310 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756P: 727.464.8250 | F: 727.464.8212
Pinellas County is a healthier place to live and play, thanks to efforts of Forward Pinellas to im-prove access to county parks and trails as well as provide safety features for bicyclists on the Pinellas Trail.
Forward Pinellas, in its role as the Pinellas County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), conducts planning efforts in areas serving minority and low-income communities to reduce risk factors for chronic diseases re-lated to a lack of physical activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s “Partner-ships to Improve Community Health” grant pro-gram provided Forward Pinellas with funds for improvements to parks and trails that support walking and biking, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas Coun-ty, Pinellas County Public Works, and the Pinel-las County Parks and Conservation Resources Department.
Working with a consultant, Forward Pinellas discovered there were several county parks that served minority and low-income neighborhoods that these communities might not know about or know how to access. As a result, For-ward Pinellas developed wayfinding signs to direct bicyclists and pedestri-ans to nearby parks. These signs show the amenities available at the near-est park, as well as how far and long it will take to get there by bike and foot.
Thirty wayfinding signs were installed at the following six parks, encour-aging access and physical activity: Eagle Lake Park, 1800 Keene Road, Largo; Joe’s Creek Greenway, 4303 46th Ave. N, St. Petersburg; John S. Taylor Park, 1100 8th Ave. SW, Largo; Lealman Park, 3890 55th Ave. N., St. Petersburg; Ridgecrest Park, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo; and Walsing-ham Park, 12615 102nd Ave., Seminole.
Forward Pinellas is a land use and trans-portation planning agency. It is the planning
council and metropolitan planning organization for Pinellas County, providing leadership to align resources and plans that help to achieve a compelling vision for Pinellas County, our individual communities and our region.
Forward Pinellas and partners bring wayfinding signs to local parks
Our Partners
310 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756P: 727.464.8250 | F: 727.464.8212
Pinellas County is a healthier place to live and play, thanks to efforts of Forward Pinellas to improve access to county parks and trails as well as provide safety features for bicyclists on the Pinellas Trail.
Forward Pinellas, in its role as the Pinellas County Metropolitan Plan-ning Organization (MPO), conducts planning efforts in areas serving minority and low-income communi-ties to reduce risk factors for chronic diseases related to a lack of physi-cal activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s “Partner-ships to Improve Community Health” grant program provided Forward Pi-nellas with funds for improvements
to parks and trails that support walking and biking, in collaboration with the Florida De-partment of Health in Pinellas County, Pinel-las County Public Works, and the Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources Department.
Forward Pinellas purchased six bicycle re-pair stations, which have already been in-stalled in locations easily visible to users of the Pinellas Trail. These repair stations al-low riders on the trail to easily perform bike maintenance and repairs while on the go. Bicyclists can hang their bikes on these repair stations while they use the attached tools or the repair station’s air pump.
Forward Pinellas is a land use and trans-portation planning agency. It is the planning council and metropolitan planning organiza-tion for Pinellas County, providing leader-ship to align resources and plans that help to achieve a compelling vision for Pinellas County, our individual communities and our region.
Forward Pinellas and partners bring bike repair stations to Pinellas Trail
Our Partners
310 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756P: 727.464.8250 | F: 727.464.8212
Pinellas County is a healthier place to live and play, thanks to efforts of Forward Pinellas to improve access to county parks and trails as well as provide safety features for bicyclists on the Pinellas Trail.
Forward Pinellas, in its role as the Pi-nellas County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), conducts plan-ning efforts in areas serving minority and low-income communities to re-duce risk factors for chronic diseases related to a lack of physical activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s “Partnerships to Im-prove Community Health” grant pro-gram provided Forward Pinellas with funds for improvements to parks and trails that support walking and biking, in collaboration with the Florida De-
partment of Health in Pinellas County, Pinellas County Public Works, and the Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources Department.
A project that Forward Pinel-las conducted using the grant, automated trail counters, will count the number of pedestri-ans and bicyclists that pass by the locations where they are installed. This provides valu-able data on how people use the Pinellas Trail — ensuring that Pinellas County residents continue to use these trails for years to come.
Forward Pinellas is a land use and transportation planning agency. It is the planning council and metropolitan planning organization for Pinellas County, providing leadership to align resources and plans that help to achieve a compelling vision for Pinellas County, our individual communities and our region.
Forward Pinellas and partners bring trail counters to Pinellas Trail
Our Partners