Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Cincinnati seeking input on Madison Road 'complete streets' project

With a repaving project scheduled to begin next month, Cincinnati's Department of Transportation and Engineering (DOTE) is seeking public feedback on a proposed "complete streets" project.

The project, on Madison Road between Grandin Road and Dana Avenue, would utilize a "road diet" approach consisting of two travel lanes in each direction, a center turn lane, and dedicated bicycle lanes.

On-street parking would be eliminated. DOTE studies have shown that those spaces are "lightly utilized", and are mostly used near residential buildings that already have dedicated off-street parking.

Not only is the design expected to calm traffic and improve its flow, but it's also meant to make the street equally accessible and safe for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.

In August 2009, Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls introduced a motion calling for complete streets to be integrated into the City's transportation policy, which she said would lead to better placemaking and spur economic development. DOTE is currently preparing a City-wide streets policy.

Cincinnati City Council passed a resolution supporting federal complete streets legislation in April 2009.

Approximately 25,000 motorists use the segment of Madison Road daily, and the corridor has been identified as a priority in the recently adopted Cincinnati Bicycle Transportation Plan.

Previous reading on BC:
Qualls motion asks for Complete Streets strategy (8/10/09)
Cincinnati passes support for complete streets (4/13/09)