Project Summary
- Review Past Planning Efforts: Planning team will research and summarize past planning efforts aimed at improving the City's street network for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Trail Alignment and Connectivity: Emphasis will be placed on identifying the ideal alignment of the Mohawk Hudson Bike Hike trail in relation to I-787, and the planning team will identify opportunities and challenges associated with the trail alignment recommendations.
- Bicycle Route Designation: Team will develop a network of Bicycle routes in the City that will connect residents to the Mohawk Hudson Bike Hike Trail and other key destinations. Currently dangerous crossings, such as the 23rd Street ramps to I-787, will be analyzed in detail and solutions will be developed to improve the safety and functionality of these crossing for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Alignment Considerations: Team will analyze the feasibility of rerouting the existing NYSDOT bike route which runs along Route 32 (Broadway) to increase the level of bicycling and increase transit ridership. A trail alignment through Hudson Shore Park will also be developed.
- Demand and Benefits Analysis: To determaine the potential economic benefits for the City, a demand and benefits analysis will be conducted and the economic benefits of the preferred trail alternative will be quantified.
- Data Collection and Mapping: Base data will be collected, analyzed and inventoried for existing roadways, waterways, flood plains, parks, key points of interest, and property owner information. Flooding and tidal patterns will be researched to determine the preferred alternative for the trail network, and this preferred alternatives will be mapped. Graphics will be produced to support and help visualize the alignment alternatives.
- Public Participation: Alta will lead an interactive public involvement process that will provide three opportunities for the community to participate and direct the development of the project. Public workshops will be scheduled and draft plans will be posted on the website as they are produced.
- Final Report: A final Bicycle Master Plan for the City of Watervliet will be produced that summarizes the existing conditions, highlights tail alignment recommendations, identifies the preferred alternative, outlines an implementation strategy and schedule, and which name funding opportunities - complete with supporting narratives, maps and graphics.