Twin Cities Streets for People

by Amber Collett, Bike Walk Twin Cities

It’s no secret that folks like to bike in the Twin Cities. Every year the cycling community grows –and I’m sure this year will be no exception (stay tuned for the 2011 Count Report release scheduled for Dec. 16th!) With supportive city leadership, committed advocacy organizations, and a set of dedicated funds made available through the nonmotorized transportation pilot program (called Bike Walk Twin Cities), Minneapolis has earned it’s spot as the number one city for bicycling in the nation

As I look back on the year, I can’t help but focus on the huge stride forward our city made in building out our cycling infrastructure. More than 75 miles of on-street bike lanes have been added to our network since the start of the Bike Walk Twin Cities program–this is great news!

Here is a little bit more about some of the most innovative projects that hit the pavement this year: Read more >

(written by Reuben Collins)

One of the more interesting aspects of the recently completed Minneapolis Bicycle Master Plan is the inclusion of a long-term vision to convert some local roadways to Greenways. The master plan map lays out a network of future Greenways (most facilities we're currently referring to as Bike Boulevards are envisioned to transition to Greenways over time. Read more >

It’s like we’re starting to connect the dots, but we aren’t quite there yet. I wonder if parents in Eagan were reading the Strong Towns blog last week? KSTP reported yesterday that they were contact by concerned parents in Eagan about pedestrian safety at a local school [Walk Score: 29].

[NOTE: I can't embed this video, so you'll have to make due with this: http://www.kstp.com/article/12303/?vid=2948385&v=1]

Read more >

This is “open space”- between the rear of the Super Target and the parking lot for the pancake house. It has a bike path that connects virtually no one to no where. It’s convenient if you want to bike from the Original Pancake House, behind the Target, down a quarter of a mile of big box loading docks, past the Chucky Cheese to the Office Max. Read more >

Metro Transit is holding three public meetings in October to discuss/present/solicit comment on their study of concepts for Arterial Transitways. Read more >

This is downtown Mackinac Island.

Bicycles rule the roads, shops and colorful awnings line the sidewalks and horse carriages gallivant freely down the congestion-free roadways. It looks kitsch, but it isn’t. It’s actually a working small town – albeit one that relies nearly exclusively on tourism.

Ignoring the volatility of the tourist-driven economy, Mackinac Island looks stronger and healthier than any small town I’ve seen. It succeeds where most small towns fail – it provides an urban environment worthy of human affection. Read more >

The National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) unveiled the new Urban Bikeway Design Guide last week. The guidelines are based on advances and best practices from throughout the world. Read more >

At their Oct 14th, 2010, meeting, the Regulatory, Energy and Environment Committee of the Minneapolis City Council will vote on the application by the Varsity Theater for a sidewalk cafe outside of their Dinkytown property.

Take a moment to peruse the plan Read more >

The Minneapolis Bike Master Plan is moving forward to adoption. The plan which will guide investments for the next several years, identifies priority routes and sets a framework for staff when they apply for federal funding to get programs and projects rolling.

Visit the project website to view the document. Five opportunities for public review and comment will be provided:

• Monday, August 30th, 6:30 to 8:30pm, Edison High School Auditorium, 700 22nd Avenue NE
• Wednesday, September 1st, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Roosevelt High School Auditorium, 4029 28th Avenue S
• Wednesday, September 8th, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Washburn High School Auditorium, 201 W 49th Street
• Monday, September 13th, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Minneapolis Central Library, Pohlad Hall Auditorium, 300 Nicollet Mall
• Wednesday, September 15th, 6:00 to 8:00pm, University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center, 2001 Plymouth Avenue N

For comments or questions related to the plan, fill out the City's online form or contact Don Pflaum at donald.pflaum@ci.minneapolis.mn.us or 612.673.2129.

The public review period will end on October 1, 2010. Read more >

Minneapolis has published a draft of the first half of their new bike plan. Read more >