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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-05-15 Bicycle & Pedestrian_PACKETCITY OF ASHLAND BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION Agenda Thursday, May 15 th 2008 @ 5:15 P.M. Siskiyou Room @ 51 Winburn Way Community Development & Engineering Services Building CALL TO ORDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES: April 17th, 2008 PUBLIC FORUM - Business from the audience not included on the agenda. (Limited to 5 minutes per speaker and 15 minutes total.) IV. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Subcommittee & Liaison Reports V. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION ODOT Grant — (Intersection of Siskiyou & Garfield) Follow -Up Items Letter regarding Taking the Lane April Traffic Safety Meeting: Siskiyou Boulevard Safety & Oak Street Top 10 & Near -Miss Lists Upcorninq Events Kidical Mass May 16th, Evo's at 4:30 p.m. Car Free Day Mappinq/Trails On -Going Discussion of Commission Goals New Business Agenda Items for Next Month V1. ADJOURNMENT Upcomina Meetings Next Regular Meeting - Thursday, June 19th, 2008 at 5:15 P.M. I MUM Oil 1 01 oil 1 0 Ing City of Ashland Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission Membership Roster (Updated May 8th, 2008) 1. 4.30.2011 Steve Ryan 657 C Street 951-1409 Apt. 1 resolutionvideo(�yahoo.com 2. 4.30.2011 David Young 747 Oak Street 488-4188 Chair dvounci @ ieffnet.org 3. 430.2009 Julia Sommer 1158 Village Sq. Dr. 552-1942 Vice Chair 5uliasommer@yahoo. corn 4. 4.30.2009 VACANT (formerly Selene Aitken's position) 5. 4.30.2010 VACANT (formerly Michael Church's position) 6. 4.30.2010 VACANT (formerly Matthew Seiler's position) 7. 4.30.2010 Jim Olney 361 Wiley Street 482-1057 Secretary oineyat@mind.net 8. 4.30.2010 Tom Burnham 1344 Apple Way 482-4467 ntburnham@Qmail.com 9. City Council David Chapman 390 Orchard St 488-0152 Liaison davidchapman@ashlandhome.net RVTD Liaison Paige Townsend 3200 Crater Lake Ave Senior Planner Medford, OR 97504 Planning Staff Liaison Derek Severson Associate Planner Police Dept. Liaison Steve MacLennan Police Officer Traffic Safety Liaison Colin Swales Youth Liaison (SOU) Eve C. Woods 51 Winburn Wy. 552.2040 seversod@ashiand.or.us 1155 E. Main St. 552-2809 (voicemail) maclenns@ashland.or.us 461 Allison St 488-0939 colinswales@gmail.com 920 W. 11m St., Unit #3 773-8515 Medford, OR 97501 eve woods@hotmaii.com Youth Liaison (AHS) Vacant (The nine voting members are shown in bold. Four constitutes a quorum per AMC 2.22.030) Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission April 17th, 2008 Regular Minutes Roll Call: Chair David Young (absent), Vice Chair Julia Sommer, Secretary Jim Olney (absent), Steve Ryan, Mick Church, Matthew Seiler, Tom Burnham Council Liaison: David Chapman Staff: Steve McLennan, Police Of Derek Severson, Associate Planner RVTD liaisons: Paige Townsend, RVTD Senior Planner (absent) High school liaison: Vacant SOU liaison: Eve Woods Traffic Safety Commissioners: Chair Matt Warshawsky, Vice Chair Colin Swales (absent) Call to Order Vice Chair Sommer called the meeting to order at 5:17 p.m. Introductions & Announcements Severson introduced the new SOU Liaison, Eve Woods and commissioners introduced themselves; Severson noted that this was Seiler's last meeting as he was moving out of town, and that Church had been appointed to the Planning Commission. Approval of Minutes — March 20th. 2008 The minutes were approved as presented by unanimous consent. Public Forum Kat Smith, bicycle safety instructor with the Bicycle Transportation Alliance and the Rogue Valley Transportation District, noted that there would be a "Kidical Mass" ride on Friday the 18th at 4:30 p.m. at Evo's Cafe. She explained that riders should meet at 4:30 p.m. and that the group ride would lead at 5:00 p.m. Liaison & Subcommittee Reports Severson noted upcoming events including the Kidical Mass Ride, Earth Day, the Commission Open House, the Community Discussion at the Armory. He encouraged members to consider attending and/or tabling. Severson inquired if members were interested in working on the Siskiyou Safety Subcommittee; Burnham, Ryan and Wood indicated that they were interested. Burnham noted that he would be meeting with a commissioner from Santa Cruz on site to discuss her ideas, and noted that all 2008-0417 Bike & Ped minutes Page 1 of 3 were invited to attend at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday the 26th at Morning Glory restaurant. Burnham and Chapman indicated they would attend. Severson noted that he would be out of the office for a conference for the May meeting, but that he would arrange to have the meeting taped. Severson briefly discussed the vacancies on the Commission and the proposed formation of a Transportation Commission, and distributed proposed mission statement language for the formation of the Commission. Woods discussed student efforts with regard to Siskiyou Safety, noting that there would be a reflective taping day, distribution of pamphlets, and an Education Committee working on educating students about pedestrian safety and laws during fall orientation. Letter re: Taking the Lane Severson noted that he had drafted a letter to Council for the chair's signature after confirming that the Police Chief was supportive of the proposed change to ordinance language to allow bicyclists to "take the lane" where appropriate, as allowed under Oregon state law. He explained that Sommer could sign the letter, and asked that Chapman explain it as liaison during Council discussion. It was noted that the City Attorney was in the process of housecleaning amendments to the ordinance to achieve more consistency with state law as well. Burnham and Chapman noted that they were still interested in working in a subcommittee on simplifying and combining relevant bicycle, pedestrian and skateboard ordinance sections. There was general consensus to accept the letter as drafted and for Sommer to sign it to be forwarded to the Council. March Traffic Safety Meeting: Siskiyou Boulevard Safety & Oak Street Ryan noted that the Oak Street discussion at Traffic Safety had been referred back to Staff for their recommendations. Top 10 & Near -Miss Lists Members discussed these lists, and Sommer noted that if members could email her additional items and she would send the list around again via e-mail to fine tune for discussion next month. Ryan noted that he had recently begun bicycling rather than skateboarding, and noted that he had encountered significantly fewer problems as a bicyclist. He indicated that his perception is that it is still most dangerous for pedestrians. Upcoming Events It was noted that Seiler would be tabling at Earth Day and that he needed some relief to allow him to get lunch and judge the Trashion Show. Sommer indicated that she was available from 12:45 to 2:15 p.m. Severson noted that the Community Bike Program would have representatives sharing the space and providing free repairs. It was noted that Olney would be tabling at the Bike Swap, and that Chapman and Severson would also be in attendance in other roles. 2008-0417 Bike & Ped minutes Page 2 of 3 Ryan, Woods, and Burnham indicated that they would be attending the Commissioner Appreciation Open House. Bicycle Friendly Community Status Burnham and Severson gave brief background, noting that the renewal of Ashland's Bicycle Friendly Community Status at the "Bronze" level was being considered by the League of American Bicyclists, and that at the time of the decision they would provide feedback on ways to increase that level. Members discussed whether there were ways to encourage cycling, such as through employer incentives. On -Going Discussion of Commission Goals: Car Free Day Visioning It was noted that a week of activities culminating in a Sunday event was the last discussion that the Commission had about Car Free Day. Ryan noted that subcommittee level discussions had been that while Monday was better for a street closure event, Sunday was better for something more celebratory like a barbecue. Ryan and Woods both indicated they were willing to help with Car Free Day; it was noted that in the subcommittee discussion, it had been suggested that the subcommittee might approach the Mayor's office seeking to have broader city sponsorship of the event because it potentially touches on broader issues including Conservation, Planning, etc. Sommer noted that if it were city sponsored, the Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission could take on the role of addressing specific requests from those planning the event. Burnham agreed, noting that he would rather see a plan for endorsement/support than try to micromanage something. There was general consensus that the Car Free Day event has taken on a broader life of its own that extends well beyond one Commission, and Commissioners indicated that they were supportive of the idea of the subcommittee/planning group seeking broader, city -sponsorship of the event. New Business Members discussed the effects of the rumble strips recently installed on Siskiyou Boulevard, and the potential for use of the radar signs. McLennan noted that the radar signs were purchased with a grant for use at specific schools and their use was limited through the grant to those schools. Aaenda Items for Next Month Members indicated that the Top 10 List, Mapping & Trails, and follow-up on Oak Street should be on the agenda, and asked that a draft agenda be distributed for comment prior to sending out packets. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m. Upcomina Meetings: Regular Meeting — May 15t , 2008 at 5:15 p.m. in the Siskiyou Room 2008-0417 Bike & Ped minutes Page 3 of 3 BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION FY 2007-2008 BUDGET UPDATE May 2008 PROGRAM FUNDS 13,300.00 COMMISSION FUND: $750.00 $750 in Commission Funds available in addition to the $3,300 in Program Funds. These are set aside for subscriptions, conference attendance, etc. BIKE SWAP FUNDS $8,201.92 (as of 11/05/07) Funds generated from the Bike Swap are under the control and management of the Ashland Parks Foundation, a private non-profit affiliated with the Parks Department. The Foundation has indicated a willingness to allow the Commission to make recommendations for the expenditure of these funds. Staff would strongly recommend that any motions for the use of these funds be framed as recommendations to the Ashland Parks Foundation in order to avoid any confusion about the status of these funds or the Bic cle `edestdan Commission's role in mana in them under +dire on state budget law. REMINDER: The Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission does not have the budgetary authority to appropriate funds, and cannot enter into contracts for services. Requests to fund outside organizations should be directed to make application for funding to the City Council through the annual budget process. CITY OF -ASHLAND Memo Date: May 15, 2008 From: Derek Severson, Associate Planner To: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commissioners Re: Staff Items from Last Meeting The Wheeldon Bench is moving ahead; the redwood for construction of the bench has been purchased and the planning group working on the project is working with the Parks Department on selection and placement of the rock elements. The "Top 10 List" items Julia sent via email were distributed to the Engineering Department. If any responses are provided prior to the meeting they'll be forwarded to you all. The Council Communication for the letter to Council approved last month on "Taking the Lane" is complete and Planning Staff are working with Administration to schedule it before Council in the very near future. I don't have any additional news on the formation of the Transportation Commission, but Paula Brown is working to complete the staff recommendations to Council in the coming 2-3 weeks. I'll keep you all posted. I would also suggest that we have a discussion item next month related to the Bicycle Friendly Community Status renewal. There will be feedback from the League to discuss by then, we may wish to have an award ceremony before Council, and it appears that there may be some new grant funds available through the program. Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission 51 Winburn Way Phone: 541 552.2040 IAA Ashland OR 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050 www ash -land or us TTY: 800.735.2900 CITY OF ASHLAND Memo Date: May 15, 2008 From: Derek Severson, Associate Planner To: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commissioners Re: Pedestrian & Bicycle Grant At their April meeting, the Traffic Safety Commission unanimously approved a motion to direct staff to apply for an ODOT Pedestrian & Bicycle Grant due June 27 to redesign the Siskiyou Boulevard and Garfield Street intersection. The redesign would involve reconstruction of the median and intersection to provide a safer pedestrian crossing. I wanted to include this on our agenda both to make you aware of the discussion, and to see if the Commission wishes to express support for Traffic Safety's grant request. Members who were in attendance at the April Traffic Safety meeting may be able to provide additional background from the discussion at that meeting. Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission 51 Winburn Way Phone: 541.552,2040 �., Ashland OR 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050w wwashland.or.us TTY: 800.735.2900 1L Memo Date: April 16, 2008 From: James H. Olson 1 To: Traffic Safety Cortimittee Re: PEDESTRIAN & BICYCLE GRANT CITY OF -AS H LA N D We have recently received the attached announcement for the FY 2010 / 2011 Bicycle and Pedestrian grant application. These grant projects must benefit bicycle and / or pedestrian use and must be located on a public street or highway. The deadline for applications is July 25, 2008 with the first half of the funding available after July 1, 2009. Staff is requesting assistance in identifying appropriate projects for this grant. Some suggestions include: 1. Reconstruction of the median and intersection at Siskiyou Blvd. and Garfield Street to provide a safer pedestrian crossing. 2. Install audible pedestrian signals in the central business district. 3. Install pedestrian scale lighting on Siskiyou Blvd. (or elsewhere). 4. Sidewalk infill project on an existing street such as Frances Lane, Oregon Street, Lincoln Street, etc. Some of the projects that ODOT considers the best use of the grant funds include: ■ Covered Bike Parking ■ Pedestrian Scale Street name signs ■ In R-O-W bike parking ■ Curb extensions (bump outs) ■ Transit stop enhancements ■ On -site storm water treatment ■ Place marking elements (viewing areas, seating, art) ENGINEERING DIVISION Tel: 541/488.5347 20 E. Main Street Fax: 541I488-200 Ashland OR 97520 TTY: 8001735-2900 www.ashland.orms 9,RYFAMIE G:1Pub-wrkslergldept-admin\TRARTSCITSC Memo - Pedestrian & Bicycle Grant 04 08.doc Ashland Traffic Safety Commission Minutes April 24, 2008 Members Present: Patti Busse, Matt Warshawsky (Chair), Greg Lemhouse, Doris Mannion, Colin Swales, Kate Jackson, Eric Heesacker Members Absent: Alan Bender, Terry Doyle Staff Present: Karl Johnson, Jim Olson, Nancy Slocum, Officer Steve MacClennan I. CALL TO ORDER — Chair Matt Warshawsky called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM in the Council Chambers, 1175 East Main Street. March 27, 2008 minutes were approved as submitted. II. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION: A. THANK YOU TO PATTI BUSSE AND MATT WARSHAWSKI Commission thanked Busse for her tenure on the Commission and Warshawsky for being Chairperson the last year. Larry Blake introduced himself as the newest Commission member, whose term begins May, 2008. B. ELECTION OF VICE -CHAIR Mannion nominated Greg Lemhouse for Vice Chair for upcoming year. Busse seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. C. PUBLIC FORUM No one spoke. D. REVIEW OF TRAFFIC REQUESTS/PROJECTS PENDING/ACTION REQUIRED 1. Request for Yield Signs in Oak Knoll Subdivision Karl Johnson presented the staff report. Jack Thompson, 821 Cypress Point Loop, witnessed one accident and numerous "close calls" at the intersections of Oak Knoll and Cypress Point Loop, Pebble Beach Drive, St. Andrews Circle and Twin Pines Circle. Decision: Lemhouse / Busse m/s to accept staff's recommendation to install a yield signs at Twin Pines Circle (south), Pebble Beach Drive (west), Pebble Beach Drive (east and west), Cypress Point Loop (north and south) and St. Andrews Circle. Motion passed unanimously. 2. Request to Establish a School Zone on Morse Avenue Johnson presented the staff report recommending against establishing a school zone. He recommended four 25 mph speed limit signs be installed along Morse Street. Decision: Busse/ Mannion m/s to accept staff's recommendation. Motion passed unanimously. 3. Siskiyou Boulevard Pedestrian Safety Update Olson summarized the work to date. A cost proposal for flashing pedestrian -activated beacons was due next week. Regular updates were being posted on the City website. Staff met with SOU representatives and planned regular meetings. Olson provided Mayor a list of potential ad hoc committee members. Commission suggested a school board member replace an Ashland School District representative. Olson spoke with Michael Ronkin, formally of C:\DOCUME-1\seversod\LOCALS-1\Temp\April 24 08 TSC.doc Page 1 of 2 ODOT Bike & Pedestrian, regarding consultant work. Commission agreed to postpone hiring Ronkin until if and when ad hoc committee was stalled. Warshawsky and Councilor David Chapman are continuing to study street lighting. Decision: No....._-.m�__. decision. 4. Open House for Commissioners on April 28, 2008 For Commission information only. 5e Bicvcle & Pedestrian Grant Allocation ODOT's yearly Pedestrian and Bicycle grant was due June 27, 2008. Staff suggested either applying for funds for audible signals for downtown core or redesign of Siskiyou Boulevard at Garfield Street intersection. Decision: Swales moved to direct staff to apply for the Siskiyou/Garfield intersection redesign. Lemhouse seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. 6. Creation of an Ashland Transportation Commission Olson explained the need to reduce staff time and to include issues of transportation planning and parking. Commission reviewed draft charter and will continue the discussion next meeting. E. OTHER Warshawsky asked the Commission to support an ordinance change that would repeal the requirement that bicycles be allowed only in the first five feet of a lane. Swales / Bussed m/s to support the need for Ashland to be compliance with state law. Motion passed 6 to 0 with one abstention. NEXT MEETING DATE: May 22, 2008 III. Adjourned 8:26 PM C:\DOCUME-1\seversod\LOCALS-1\Temp\April 24 08 TSC.doc Page 2 of 2 Fixable Bike/Ped Danger Spots Needs re-striping/painting: - bike lane on North Mountain going uphill to RR tracks - portions of bike lane on Tolman between 66 and Siskiyou, especially downhill side at 66/Tolman intersection. (Contact: Carl Johnson, 552-2415) Street/sidewalk maintenance: - Depression in bike lane on Siskiyou going south just before Morton Street. Does not drain properly. - Gravel/debris on East Main bike lanes between Tolman Creek and Highway 66. - Siskiyou flooding/spring runoff freezing: Beach, Morton, Union, all flood the sidewalks on the south side when there's a heavy rain. Central Bike Path maintenance (Parks Dept.): - bumps/cracks/disintegration between Clay and Tolman Creek. - high curb where it crosses Normal by cemetery, forcing dismount. New signage• 4-way stop signs where bike path crosses E. Main and N. Mountain at RR crossings. These intersections are very busy and confusing, and cars often don't stop for bikers/walkers on the path. Need signs directing cyclists from the north end (A Street) of the Central Bike Path to the Bear Creek Bike Path (Dog Park). - Unregulated railroad crossing underneath overpass at Clay St. Need for new radar speed board: Currently the city only has one, and only for Ashland School District. We need at least one more, for places like Siskiyou Blvd. and N. Mountain between Hersey and B St. Cost: 5K More complicated needs: - Audio signals for vision -impaired at major intersections. Traffic Safety Commission will discuss this at their next meeting. - Bikers are forced onto sidewalk on N. Mountain between E. Main and Siskiyou (along high school). Sidewalk on only one side. Cut into playing field verge for bike lane and/or sidewalk? - Clay St. blind curve at bottom: needs curb & sidewalk. Question: Do pedestrian walk buttons make any difference in timing of lights? CITY OF ASHLAND Memo Date: May 15, 2008 From: Derek Severson, Associate Planner To: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commissioners Re: Mapping & Trails Agenda Item Tom had wanted to have this item on the agenda; he's leading the subcommittee on this issue but may not be able to attend tonight. I'm not sure where he wanted to go with the discussion. I haven't been able to locate the map that was used when we actually worked to place the current signs around town, but I did find a table listing the intersections and signs to be placed in each that I thought might be useful as we begin to look at signage associated with trail and bicycle route connections. I will work to recreate a map for the June meeting if that's the direction members want to go, or if Tom is absent you may want to table the item to determine the direction we want to go with this next month. Just as a reminder, there are existing maps created and available on-line as a starting point at: http://www.ashiand.or.us/Page.asp?NavID=9250 Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission 51 Winburn Way Phone: 541.552.2040 ILA& Ashland OR 97520 Fax: 541,,552.2050 www ashland.or us TTY: 800,735.2900 Location, Intersection Leg Number of Signs Sign Message Bear Creek Greenway north 1 ped & bike symbol Park drive & "take Helman St. to Nevada/Heiman Downtown" w/arrow directing west and north Helman & VanNess north corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol southbound traffic "to Central Ashland Path" w/arrow directing east on Van Ness north corner, for 1 reader sign "to downtown" southbound traffic w/arrow directing south on Helman east corner, for 1 Ped & bike symbol westbound traffic "to Bear Creek Greenway" w/arrow directing north on Helman Helman and Lithia north corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol Way southbound traffic "take N. Main to downtown" w/arrow directing southeast on N. Main Oak and VanNess south corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic "Oak St. to B St. to Central Ashland Path" w/arrow directing north and east Oak and Lithia Way south corner, for q ped & bike symbol northbound traffic "to Central Ashland Path" w/arrow directing north on Oak .. .... _ ._ w_W south corner, for 1 reader ._... ........ ped & bike symbol northbound traffic "to Bear Creek Greenway" w/arrow directing north on Oak Oak and Hersey south corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol northbound traffic "take Hersey to Helman to Bear Creek Greenway" w/arrow directing west and north Fourth & B west corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic "take Fourth to Central Ashland Path" w/arrow directing north north corner, for 1 .......... ped & bike symbol westbound traffic "take B St. to Pioneer to downtown" w/arrow directing to turn west on B Fourth St. Alley north side, for 1 ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic "Central Ashland Path" Pioneer & B north corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol westbound traffic on B "to downtown" w/arrow directing to turn south on Pioneer south corner, for 1 ped & bike symbol northbound traffic on "take B St. to Central Pioneer Ashland Path" w/arrow directing to turn east on B Siskiyou & North south side, for .w_._._ 1 .w_ ....... ped & bike symbol Mountain northbound traffic " to Central Ashland Bike Path, use N. Mountain Ave." w/arrow directing north west side, for 1 Ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic "to Central Ashland Path, use N. Mountain Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north east side, for 1 "to Central Ashland westbound traffic Path, use N. Mountain Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north east side, for _. 1 reader sign "to downtown" westbound traffic w/arrow directing west on Siskiyou Siskiyou & Wightman south side, for 1 ped & bike symbol northbound traffic "to Central Ashland Bike Path, use Wightman St." w/arrow directing north west side, for 1 Ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic "to Central Ashland Path, take N. Mountain Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north east side, for 1 "to Central Ashland westbound traffic Path, take N. Mountain Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north east side, for 1 reader sign "to downtown" westbound traffic w/arrow directing west on Siskiyou Siskiyou & Walker south side, for 1 ped & bike symbol northbound traffic " to Central Ashland Bike Path, use Walker Ave." west side, for eastbound traffic east side, for westbound traffic 1 1 ._._._._..... w/arrow directing north Ped & bike symbol "to Central Ashland Path, use Walker Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north "to Central Ashland Path, use Walker Ave." w/arrow showing turn to north �..___.m_ east side, for .._ ...�......... ....... 1 reader sign "to SOU & westbound traffic downtown" w/arrow directing west on Siskiyou Siskiyou & Tolman south side, for 1 ped & bike symbol northbound traffic " to Central Ashland Bike Path, use Tolman Creek Road" w/arrow directing north ...... ......... west side, for 1 .... ped & bike symbol eastbound traffic to Central Ashland Path, use Tolman Creek Road" w/arrow .._......... showing turn to north east side, for 1 to Central Ashland westbound traffic Path, use Tolman Creek Road" w/arrow showing turn to north CA Bike Path & for eastbound traffic 1 ped &bike symbol Mountain "to SOU" w/arrow directing south on Mountain for westbound traffic 1 ped & bike symbol to SOU" w/arrow directing south on Mountain ......... CA Bike Path & for eastbound traffic 1 ped & bike symbol Wightman to SOU" w/arrow directing south on Wightman forwestboundtraffic 1 ped & bike symbol "to SOU" w/arrow directing K south on Wightman CA Bike Path & on west side, for 1 "to bike path" Shamrock eastbound traffic w/arrow directing east on Shamrock --- ___ on east side, for 1 .... ................... ...._ "to bike path" westbound traffic w/arrow directing west on Shamrock CA Bike Path & .......................................for ..westbound traffic...._......I .reader........................................................ww..................... ped &bike symbol Tolman "Central Ashland Bike Path" for westbound traffic 1 "path ends at Fourth Street" & "distance" for westbound traffic 1 reader `to downtown w/arrow directing west east side, for 1 reader sign .................. "to SOU & westbound traffic downtown" w/arrow directing west on Siskiyou Page 1 of 1 Derek Severson - Bicycle Friendly Community Award From: "Bill Nesper" <BillNesper@bikeleague.org> To: <seversod@ashland.or.us> Date: 4/24/2008 2:43 PM Subject: Bicycle Friendly Community Award Dear Derek, Congratulations! The League has designated Ashland a Bicycle Friendly Community once again at the Bronze level. This decision involved careful review of your application and consultation with local cyclists. As you know, this award is presented only to communities with remarkable commitments to bicycling. You should be very proud of this accomplishment. Please share this with your partners in the city and advocacy community. The League will be releasing a national press release on this on May 1st and looks to work with you to help promote this accomplishment. Please hold your announcement of the award until May 1st. You will also be receiving specific feedback from the review in a few weeks from the League of American Bicyclists on what you can do to help Ashland become more bicycle -friendly as well as your BFC road sign, decal, and award certificate. Your designation will be due for renewal in May of 2012. At that point your community will be reevaluated so we urge you to make as many improvements as possible in the meantime! Of course, if you wish to renew sooner than that please do. We look forward to seeing the community's progress. If you would like to do an award ceremony, please let us know. We would love to work together to promote this great achievement. Please contact BFC program specialist Alison Dewey for more details on setting up an award ceremony and updating your community webpage: AlisonCc�bikeleag_ue.or Also, thanks to REI and Bikes Belong there are special grants that are now available to communities that apply for the BFC designation and receive an honorable mention or higher. There will be more information coming in the next few days on how your community can apply for one of these. Once again, accept our congratulations on your tremendous efforts to create a truly Bicycle Friendly Community. Sincerely, Bill Nesper Director, Bicycle Friendly Community Program League of American Bicyclists P: 202-822-1333 bill ikeleaue.org seversod@ashland.or.us file://C:\Documents and Settings\seversod\Local Settings\Temp\GW}0000l.HTM 4/24/2008 Derek Severson - Re: Bike sign @ Sixth & A Street Page 1 From: Derek Severson To: Becca Ostrom Subject: Re: Bike sign @ Sixth & A Street >>> Becca Ostrom <rostrom @ccountry. net> 04/29/08 7:00 PM >>> Karl -- Wow, thanks for the VERY prompt action. Everything is taken care of, and looks much better. Karl Johnson wrote: > Rebecca, > I did some checking about the situation at 6th & A St, and found the Department that did the work. They let me know that everything would be cleaned up and put back into place, hopefully, by the end of the day today. Let me know if you have any other questions or comments. Thanks. »» Derek Severson 04/29/2008 10:07:10 AM >>> > Rebecca, > I've forward this to Karl Johnson, one of the City Engineers who oversees projects of this nature and staffs the Traffic Safety Commission, and he should respond shortly. (He's in the field at the moment, or I'd have an answer for you now.) If you don't hear from Karl quickly enough, or if I can provide any further information or assistance, please let me know. Thank you for bringing this to our attention - the Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission had worked to have signs installed there to warn drivers near the bikepath. > Derek Severson, Associate Planner > City of Ashland Planning Division > 51 Winburn Way > Ashland, OR 97520 > e-mail: SeversoDna ashland.or.us > Phone: (541) 552-2040 > Fax: (541) 552-2050 > TTY: 1-800-735-2900 > This email is official business of the City of Ashland, and it is subject to Oregon public records law for disclosure and retention. If you have received this message in error, please let me know at (541) 552-2040. Thank you. »» Becca Ostrom <rostrom (a-)ccountry. net> 04/29/08 9:36 AM >>> > Good Morning— • About one month ago, the City dug out some of the plants in the > collection pit at the corner of 6th & A. In order to do so, they had to > remove the Bike symbol sign in the 6th St. alley that warned drivers > that they were approaching the bike path that runs along the railroad at Derek Severson - Re: Bike sign @ Sixth & A Street Page 2 > this point. This sign is still lying face down along the collection pit > (the fence was replaced around the pit, but the sign wasn't restored to > its upright position). > Also, the City dug out a bunch of rose bushes & other shrubs in order > to do the removal. This debris is still there at the corner of 6th & A. > It looks very unsightly. > Could you please tell me when, or if, the City intends to finish the > clean up & reinstall the sign? > Thank you, > Rebecca Ostrom > 301 -1886 > 681 A Street 1 w e s �p� mm 44 x ki x y 1 ,...»,. .q m " 6,7 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Dear BTA Member, The Year 2007 `will be remembered as a watershed for bicyclists —our numbers have grown exponentially, our network has grown stronger, and our energy has been unleashed It is also a year marked by a combination of important achievements and the tragic losses of fellow bicyclists. These victories and sor- rows have touched us deeply, and made us stronger than ever before. Through it all, the BTA, continued its role as innovator, public advocate, youth mentor, program provider, educator, and bicycle promoter to successfully increase bicycle transportation. Bic}'cling is a defining feature of Oregon. People from around the world visit Oregon to discover our secret to success. What v,e have come to learn is that our secret is us —the strong and diverse communit} of bicyclists. This community has grown and our tactics are evoking. Oregon is embracing new family -friendly strategies that have the potential to vastly increase the number of people that use bicycles for travel and recreation. Exciting new partners, including tourism, seniors, and health organizations, are advocating for and funding bicycling programs. Other bicycling groups —recre- ational, mountain, racing, and manufactur- ing —have increased their efforts to make Oregon the premier bicycling state. In 2008 the BTA will greatly, increase our efforts to remain a hard-hitting and innova- tive alliance, pushing for more and better cycling. We will seek to build the nation's most exciting movement that realizes a bi- cycle transportation system and culture that is used by most and respected b} all. As we more forward, please help us spread the message that bicycling is the answer to many modern-day problems. After all, every person who chooses to bicycle removes one more car from the road, improves our environment and air quality, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, strengthens our communities, improves public health, and increases the political clout of bicyclists. And perhaps most importantly, there is safety in numbers; therefore your bicycle trip makes it safer for the entire community to hop on the saddle. Thank you for being a BTA member, for supporting our important work, and help- ing make the world a better place for bicyclists. Scott Bricker Executive Director By the Numbers BTA members on January 1st, 2007. . . . . . . . .4,443 BTA members on January 1st, 2008 . . . . . . . .4,829 Kids taught bike safety statewide by the BTA in 2007. , , . . . 5,497 Bikes in the BTA's bike safety fleet. . . . . . . . . . . 532 Bikes in Albany fleet stolen from a truck in 2007 . . . . . . . . . .9 Number replaced by generous Albany donors . . . . . . . .9 Adult bike commuting workshops led by BTA in 2007 . . . . . . . . . .72 New bike commuters reached through Bike Commute Challenge (BCC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,770 Total bike commuters reached through BCC. . . . . . . . . . . .9,746 Workplaces participating in BCC in 2007. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888 Total number of people employed by those companies . . . . . 201,000 Record -setting miles, hours, and feet of elevation for a single BCC commute . . . . .63, 7, and 3,800 Number of times that bike commute happened . . . . . . . . 1 x1-:19 y i • • The BTA continues to push bicycle bou- levards as a primary strategy to increase cycling. We have found that current cyclists, interested cyclists, and people of all ages prefer low -traffic, pleasant, convenient, and relatively stop -free routes. Using low-cost methods, bicycle boulevards optimize exist- ing streets by reducing stops, calming or diverting automobile traffic, and using clear visible pavement stencils and directional markings to increase awareness. In 2007 we also found out that bicycle boule- vards are supported by a wide cross-section of the public and businesses. These routes improve the safety and livability of neigh- borhood streets, while increasing access to business districts. In Portland, the City Council has been work- ing to pass Safe, Sound, and Green Streets —a transportation finance program that would repair streets and improve safety, including building a new 1 I4-mile network of bicycle bOUle Vard S. Portland is also incorporating bicycle boulevards as a primary strategy in its Bicycle Master Plan update. In Eugene, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Plan elevated bicycle boulevards to the top -ranked facilities strategy. Mihvaukie also added bicycle boulevards to their new bicycle plan. Moving forward, the BTA will educate other communities and press them to consider adding low -traffic routes to their facilities plans. In MemoryCyclists Every year over 40,000 people are killed on our nation's roadways. In Oregon, we suf- fered the tragic loss of 12 cyclists in 2007, W. rAwk i :111 losses that shocked and united the bicycle community. In an effort to increase the awareness of these incidents, the BTA ran Portland's Ride of Silence — part of a worldwide event to honor fallen cyclists. Four rides with hundreds of participants were held across the state. Soon after, the Tim O'Donnell Memorial Fund was created, and the BTA raised money to launch the `And We Bike" campaign in Washington County. More tragic deaths outraged Portland cyclists about safety and enforcement practices. The death of Bike Gallery employee Brett Jarolimek spurred the formation of the Brett Jarolimek Memo- rial Fund, with the goal of financing innova- tive and visible bicycle safety projects. r In the wake of these tragic events and com- munity outcry, the BTA began pressing for changes in police response to and prosecu- tion of such crashes. The BTA laid out a strategic action plan for enforcement that we are working to implement in Portland and hope to present across Oregon. In summary, we have asked for: • A community policing agreement that will outline enforcement practices. • Enforcement actions at high -risk traffic locations. • Monthly reports on citations and investi- gations from the police bureau. • Policy changes that would lower the bar when a traffic investigation is conducted in a crash with vulnerable users of the road. • A bicycle liaison in the traffic division and education for all officers on the unique vul- nerability and safety issues faced by cyclists. • Enforcement actions to catch motorists engaged in road rage behavior. OTHER PORTLAND REGIONAL PROJECTS • Metro's Regional Transportation Plan • Regional Trails Implementation • Portland Sunday Parkways • East and West Burnside -Couch Corridor • Lake Oswego to Portland Rail and Trail • Sellwood Bridge Replacement • Columbia River Crossing • Rose Quarter Transit Center Access • On -street Bike Parking COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS The Bicycle Transportation Alliance is very grateful to the following government agencies, schools, businesses, and individuals for making our work possible.* Government, School, Civic, Bike Club, Foundation, and Corporate Supporters 0P0oo+ 1 w I°kaurmliin,g + IUesi,.[m Vd'uudggc: Pcrkad, Inc. GilwlpVrconl Design 0IFCIlT-"Ir;rnrslp+aruurron Sad'ery Division Portland Office of '!) anslry-mdoun $a 0,000'- II9,999 IICI&c. G;Illerg C..yc le d bi ugore Calm. kr Share' of Ghreggon Nem Bellgiolrnl Vzu'enu ing' 'Ilri vIe0: Ashland liuirk. Connnmission ( It pcnrtc:Ir I ound:atiioa C h vlloltt:e and Nonr ilrrann Codo C Irau'inrnlulr I uu!sp C Ihak KiTiI, Vauacrsioa C:osnpone mts: G ilm%ing Cu onde.In.s(IVor-tllx uveso: Healih I ou nchlinon F...41ne• 1I Oregon P'Ie aIl uPu & scieilicc. G,'niveilsitw R EI Salem Viieyrcle Cluku .irin u r Iln 6:;L`ll sol".."o V m ins The 1WIIarg ter Watt Edun;su'ds Foundation 'IWriVll.ax'Inlun:au "4Wleelk $ ,5o0d- 4,99 Bllkr. N f-Irku: C lly of-1shllalud Clevell Cycles Conunlnutcr Solll.urions ... V..:ane'll-ansio: Disur➢er II u:;psrra:¢.r ondpuue s u'v ilces E,jperienc.ePkosV Good Spout P uonnoilkonn (heem Geor C tvc.fing, Ina:. (Bike VlicllavY ,'Aa Nao Books Mid--W'ehev Bic vell, Club IR cill,cuaarran, IauC. RiverClaw Bic Ycles Srwonwin I'hwinas, and Coon Ile ulna ><sn og eun, Inc The iexnd,ad Tu e k. Il'r;avelll Nr000 -$ 499 B-acIslpaee ( Sonnedza Loviig;e Bic.vde R Ipal Collccuuve I:Cormey,colno Cycle Path C :d Beckelr colrnpaamp 1fDa%lld Evans & Associater, DK WWrhitulke a Eiiq;kneclrinul; Eyre: Health Notth"el r Fora F"arniky Fror.umdall'uon Gales Clod, Vmsruualnce Cx'eredalug Lcklelnl Devellolpnnenu individual Supporters $1e,o0o'f- ;N•non"nous :iuwan Roseuurhrr.11 ro2„000- $4,999 Christine Conk klIen P-Varncm k. Clio is King l: out WfivirlV0 Phil Riclnminl :\' in-ilea!'I, IIa iue.s ,,&: Pet'eu LNui:urik. Kenne'dn Armes MVuu Bouk. V fug h d& Ann Hynrsanl C ury of ilea, e nr:on S u l r u rme. G. II arke Scott Dih,co tlln -Mary F'cl m, s 8,john Russell J n- Ci,;,ves & AIison I fi110 Y I r s. I f osu a'd IDic,kJaficv Ys nen &IDvuc Johnson Jeff 1-wig, & Ramona Ssc-,ndg';nd Jinn L" r'cmce suldn' NhlaNev Suzanne ,& Roxl;cr NcKirn Jun Mc;ak.iur Dean M11ul1lho Jnud ilrh Riclhrnolnc! ° alik. & lvliaily RAclrrr. Jilin ..".inn a r.lr C h;:urlesYounlg 500 . $999 Joe &: V..aavOnune lfloreclrs DlIer C:alII Jilin C�'assnarap;Vt Jiinrr C:urarml V1uu:Wu Car ukp;ralnl John Cunningfiaun, fh,ndan L71IImrr'Inli Bann, PC .Steieon Fekeu} ; al'y Fetsch Man.: GJral.Iladin ° imt & ]GII stile Girorad I..indo Gineuothal Stephen Gnooley Dan I1"Vamr'ners ,om 13,fa Johnson& d,he'InI Poole Main Kag;il IlPr'roee & a u aan K..rdg;cruc. Monique Levesque Dave & Linda a MIla Caurnrtllon Ise,,nl&Karen 1 cConk:ev John Ibdulneil Chadlie kloor'e Jlane rMooue John &: lyke Isan i'WVluuphy ,Jack:, iA N',ion, & i'fezeh iNen levl; rllt WY;ary O'Flolnnell, in xmemory of Tinnl 01)o1oneltl V1ang Pal"ro,, R.iciflulyd R.;ay. t&::"anlne, Philipsboiriln Jcrlry Piirar'rll;att U,iI Reyunollds Dch Role einsolnl Gals Rodelnbeck. WW'rslhiinaton Cou.irm Conxnnis,ioner Dick. arhouteln M,ar'k. 5hrpar`d Jr htrev Shot & ` anllalrI Mo k lla;.r nn GbC"rr lnal celuura.l 13aek.kng Comalpa N, Greater Affxlluy P'uubfic Schooll IDistrict 8) I kaVdh Nei ou 0Irep.,aun II-Ieinz Records Vr m Ryan C� cles juan WYolang'Flrust K V YrF CrrrnsuVring ErgpI mcels 1IGPMG"a K rise nl II. r lnseun Conslplluing Mail ,mattur s, kilckflii MFarka. Conipanucs AV3 Snautlh, Vuapd V apuiproreurlt Co klike.'s Sake Shop Millc'u NaOi Nordi,vest Nano C) urallarlh am Far ni1v Il"@nnr:l Al ion f to u's OCkrer °"uVullvly IIou I falnld Ge meu al Pleclo is Poll WW/kxeelrnerr Fouzing Club RursselV Ibcvellolpmxenu Co, S;atuulno D siig, Srskivuruvelllo Stenlunwp S•svinks II:Carnik. Y Ihla=,Jo¢:"s Il^ourtdatioun The Lamb Fouundadon 'I"intotingy j Glr;ay Rune, F.Mng,'rruusu , ek. ILicyelles V Welnsry spcclrl: jekE"Iircc'ce j n:vue.w'liaclh sc� Ih urn lilt 'Fiiun & Jbnell ,fillneu' Ellelnl Valrudcl-slhe, & Scott pork", fF'uc.lnt W l,d MY.alrg';a,et Wve.'ddclP F:d F4•hsr;.rVnannleon & Cs"whom Ckx'iltonl Elk A.hlranrra swill :N.d,uurnls Peg;'p;,,,V•mdersom Aaron A•Inlg e:l ,&: ILiinnea IIredu'rckson Isaac Ba 1, ro, V,vualu 1F.dversvu &.'Zarl, Y-Yuulll poillII 13hck.kn.rra F4n'ocu: Blank lien, N IICosanik P icharca:d IIIIonlch,-., Todd 'Lou lava pa,eu ScatrBvilclker'i _4aapek;a GoWsntith. Mle rid N, Sivr me lliulll d.& C.:all,, Canfielld B,irml Caslrlrold Debra & Bob Callus I )ianc Chavilidey, FAIT Ca¢I'ue:rullrc Clarko Bud Clark Laim &-khui N'nr Coopc:il Bob Cot 'ruug h' Cary rn Colrrsin t@' S;.rcllx;:r W111u:e Grob & F.Heun C:I.uruev-'6Wrilson Kxn Lleurllndis Mali k. Domuoelkv Vameouvelr I:EicN,c)c Chub Wleloce Pic:ydes Wifliann; & Devito 1Devekoplrncurlt Yakima ACTS Oregon ridillas W.rrrcuilr..a. ILcuav F,fol,kll-v Il°'Lu:Id Bourns Health Cu ueu, PC Call f4 u r lfieskgus C.•ssc:adc Bicycle Club Classuc. Sash & Door C iP 1301, funs: Denise C arYy and Rogeu Brown Fainnilly Fund of The Gxeg,on Connunoullaiuy II''oundal:iion Mika, V3anunouo &: Dennis Cr;aAObi[rd IIueuvuono If aumly %lkfolnl Gleeuxer' VIlouuronu Iursru llono.11 V1igrins R alaruilamlit & Guar Hsi •sectei s sysrerns Ilnc Lake: Glove A rr & I Francs Nationale MS Society, CDilegcaln Chuall NIIKE,fne Noudn Scar Irolvild i6iol Nossav Farnllilit Cottee 013E Oregon 'Zoo Lvnn Il.1e'yeu & Richoanlyd iMi" tunez Seouu: &: Lori Duud'Cemis Diane Dullken Jessica Iinng e Inan &: Eilk. V-Vovntidler Lxrss Ii pelsuad & iWLartha Richia.Yd5 Ron Pkovad salrah &: Rogeu Flriiedel Mol kk Gauzatao Weyer (Joorld, liar, firR.D Lavinia Gri & ICDick. Belnurer.. PKasandra Gnr'iffiln Kid, &: Joel Grover Damn Guuddner' li4 tams sch•arvupv CJ ar} Hahn .kil f,, & V'c tel, Il-Yalna.n';n V:Dotr;ald FVelfg;oilt Loy. I-Ilengeueld Sc P;atrlicioa W,°ura:o-rell I&onelud I inoal.ley Dana I'.i`ilrogeu' Gilhan Il-II(Xbnook. II kp.quc .Hum." W,Vlllku;rinrr IIrma hdsou, F"scp, Gllada J;acohs Nuchnhs Jouncs Rich-ord Kaiser' Nanc) KeaLe, ,W,ndeomy Kekk J'leloly t& Angela Kern Cairoline Rug & F..u'ilk. �Vlberl, „Yeff V6rnaplp R.oberl I<.unlrn di: ]-:labia-- ,�ickuaell War rbae¢tu'sc::kn eel— & Flanik. R ljoz Dgf,arnics to you, II eucilvak &. 1: socdatevs I'mthond Publllic Sclhools Powell's Ciu:y of Books Russ 'Woxto Group Saunll .Spokes (Selllhwnod Cycle. ICclpaiu se, eus C ou ne is Cycles Sourh Uemr C:vcle-ork:s V.JRS Velrrneu Sofirware. &TeeIII nolog,y WW iIIN;:en & C oirrtpanw, PC" CRA's Wilson I Ilerxroentauv P'V'."A /ulpc;ar $2!5 -$49 Achou Consulting Advanced M assig,,e Therolpv §II SIAC Nhcauuae (.y cues Balyd.yTuolplhvComixi v' IlIlI S Patti & Bill Bucher, in lineilnor v of Npak FBucloeu C'a,mrilglhu Desillrnl C +astelVu & Spnortkili /9.rnc., llcn Caunvadlli, Sel'oO II 7isuricr. 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Nelson Russ 01[rnlzo C,a l'ok V.kran[,f & Pal:ts Ne:Wl.nd IS.rr;rie Perry Janus Pelers P lairy Phinney IRolf,cr'u Pi, :6'.aau Jannes Pipeu Dl,,ild t3,.'IGlenrre Pmuase_ .jonothan Vulreu:y unary Susan Rernrinnlers J+ s6c;.r. 1Cohrcuns seuxv IIE.or'cc svdi( helllle Rubcr- Jennif a IR upeva: IL:aye Saleskv Ilnueriface C'NC: Kling elf ,111 'fades V )nig n L,anapu'os Stee11 Ync Lk terar-a' Ail is LR SA1,chuteces .May;noha's Peachx Skill do kdaoucare Sidon 'id:rp'gnic me.sseunger Colle.cluve Ivlatuaua0 P'Iress N nuuilun Ote,pit, Y.vc .Sexci;.r.lilso, OlFanic Vallev ll^;amnilly" of`FiNums Pacific Noruhsv'ast C,Ael e oll_W,ru II ,menvor ks I & Sol clrnx.nr, PC I aud's FVre na le Way all ]Life Revoker Lakes Sanijanii Ikieycde Second SSuanry Vuno:euaGYP e S v, Studios Security k11trmin Co,poll,16ion Slarbucks Coffee: Comna,arry °Wulxnmprlmeuxxi GoL'ee Iko awes '11'I1fe Joineu,y W�W/auerkiortr: Bko,cle Rentals WWrel6:h Al fVllA Whole Foods Miwu'kct VWi.dnnlelr )Lo'othners I:i'renvinl; Co, Rick. Sawn Cra.F Smers; Brian schlroed€•Ir MLalry Sch ulrtetu Cilaleun •` elilz tar joccpl.uelimc:Villnmve Karen sheu'ddanl A aeon .`'Stemsv;uai, Diets) scene&jm e.sl:'k'4ers Aire) Stork Susie stuagnell .jcr'unilfim Ttylou ,Jnlruncs'TPrnrvr;.us, MD john'l1'horerl Nick & C Inds Tichiniln N'anloy'llrurner Jrxcrrrrc C snro.lrrekuuer' Slelp llaen lipckxrsllrch :Micllvd )Am Kkxc'k ` , oel: Walrnick I-Veal:herWilkins Loren WVaynnn:.r.ln David W'Vebe, Richard WN sonl Mail k WW dsoro slue WW olllhlnlp; C:odeilrr Ynr q,,uchp t&'I'omr Napa ii,n 1Desran Young Adam &. ` helle•v R'uck:.eu' 1Iceliheu `(,suu:kcc >kIf we d lusting vnrn' don;.rri.un Ihleue, pdc;ase keil us k n,ns' so a e Cara rya llt � calrno-,clllan rn alar uxo.'n;t Ines'dwell With BTA support, bicyclists across Oregon lobbied for greater funding for bicycle infra- structure and more protective laws. The 2007 Oregon Bike Summit held in Sisters helped bring recreation, tourism, racing, mountain biking, and transportation interests together. Bicycling had a landmark year of success at the Oregon Legislature. A number of important bills were passed and bicycling continued to build its power across the state. The BTA spearheaded and helped pass the following: House Bill 3314 Requires careless drivers who kill or seri- ously injure a "vulnerable roadway user" to complete 100 to 200 hours of community service and a traffic safety course, or face :a �12,500 fine and revocation of their license for one year. This bill creates a first -in -the - nation "vulnerable roadway user" designa- tion that sets the stage for further safety legislation. It creates a legal framework that will guide enforcement agencies and the judiciary in strengthening their approach to protecting bicyclists and walkers. Senate Bill 108 Requires drivers on rural roads stay far enough awav when passing a cyclist to preNcnt contact if the rider were to fall into the u•affic lane, This is another critical step coward creating safe practices, educating drivers about their obligations, and holding accountable those who endanger cyclists. Senate Bill 789 Creates Oregon's "Share the Road" license plate. The handsome new plate is available for only $10 more than standard plates. Plate owners will send a message every time they drive that all road users deserve respect and courses}. PrOCCCLIS will be shared by the BTA and the Cycle Oregon Fund to increase road safety. Senate Bill242 Requires newly -constructed or renovated schools to plan for Safe Routes to School, helping institutionalize the idea that it should be safe and easy for our children to walk or bike to school. House Bill2297 Reduces speed limits on the narrowest residential roadways —one step in the efforts to decrease traffic speeds throughout our communities. • M1. I v-T. 0 Oregon continues to lead the nation with a strong elected delegation of committed bicycle enthusiasts. In 2007 Oregon rocked the National Bike Summit with the highest attendance, second only to California. At the summit, Congressman Earl Blumenauer delivered a powerful keynote address, and all 50 states lobbied their representatives to pass Blumcnaucr's Bicycle Commuter Act. In October the BTA had the privilege of tes- tifying on Safe Routes to Schools in front of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, chaired by Congressman Peter DeFazio. As chair, DeFazio is positioned to take a lead role on writing the next national transportation reauthorization bill scheduled to pass in 2010. • MY T-1 r•......... In 2007 the Oregon Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program grew and achieved important accomplishments. Most notably, the Oregon Department of Transportation announced the award of their first SRTS grants that will fund 28 early -adopting schools to provide education, encourage- ment, and physical improvements to support bicycle and pedestrian safety. Nearly 20,000 parents and children in over 90 schools participated in Oregon's Inter- national Walk+Bike to School Day. As lead coordinators of this statewide event, the BTA continues to lead the effort to promote bicy- cling and walking among Oregon children. In 2007 we also won a contract to develop and test a statewide SRTS curriculum and provide statewide support for year-round Walk+Bike programming. Children's bicycle safety education continues to be a key strategy in our efforts to improve the health of future generations. Since 1999 we have taught over 40,000 children our award -winning ten hour curriculum that includes guided on -street bicycle rides. In 2007, over 6,000 children in Albany, Ash- land, Beaverton, Bend, Corvallis, Eugene, Portland, Redmond, Salem, Talent, Tigard, and Vancouver participated. Like many things, Portland continues to be a lead innovator with their Safer Routes to School program. Over the past three years, in partnership with schools and community organizations, the BTA has taken a lead role in bringing the City of Portland's Safer Routes to School program to 25 schools, with the goal of eventually serving all Port- land elementary schools. Promoting Bicycle In 2007 we held the largest Bike Commute Challenge ever! Held every September, this month -long event uses the time -tested tactics of friendly competition and fun to encourage more people to try biking to and from work. In the 2007, 888 companies representing nearly 201,000 workers took up the chal- lenge. Nearly 9,800 employees competed, logging over 100,000 trips and 922,000 miles traveled by bike. That represents about 910,000 pounds of CO2 kept out of the atmosphere and $482,690 in vehicle costs saved. Most importantly, 2,770 people reported trying bike commuting for the first time. As a national leader in innovative transporta- tion, Oregon's four top research universities joined to form the newest national Univer- sity Transportation Center, coined Oregon Transportation Research and Education Consortium (OTREC), to be housed at Port- land State University (PSU). PSU is also the home to the new Initiative for Bicycle and Pedestrian Innovation (IBPI). The BTA sits on the board of both OTREC and IBPI, working to assure that innovation continues, is researched well, and that methods are well disseminated to academics, professionals, and community leaders. BTA Staff Front Row (L-R): Gretchen Horton, Lillian Karabaic, Angela Koch, Joel Holly Middle Row (L-R): LeeAnne Fergason, Lynne Mutrie, Carl Larson, Tricia Satterlee, Heather Andrews, Michelle Poyourow Back Row (L-R): Scott Lieuallen, Karl Rohde, Scott Bricker, Stephanie Noll, Kristie Perry, Tom Rousculp, Michael O'Leary, Emily Gardner On the cover: A rider traverses the Broadway Bridge; the "Share the Road" mural, produced by Sherri Love and designed by Sara Stout, graces Hawthorne Auto Clinic. BTA Board of Directors President: Hugh Bynum, Photographer Vice -President: Mary Roberts, The Roberts Collaboration Secretary: John Bloss, TriMet Treasurer: Drew Corrigan, KPMG Mary Fetsch, TriMet Stephen Gomez, Nau Jeff Knapp, Lane Powell Jim Meakin, Brookhouse Properties Daniel McGinnis, Bike Gallery Susan Otcenas, Team Estrogen Doug Parrow, Oregon Water Resources Department Nancy Pautsch, viaLanguage Many thanks to our outgoing board members_7ay Graves, Craig Bachman, Jane Moore, Debra Carus, and Linda Ginenthal, and outgoing staff members Anna Scalera, Evan Manvel, Chris- topher Duran, andjacqueline Villnave. Annual Report Design: Grapheon.com NON-PROFIT Bicycle Transportation Alliance ORG, T + P.O. BOX 9072 US, POSTAGE �� Portland OR 97207-9072 PAID PORTLAND, OR #5168 {�F�IGH}u;EUfkl!fl19 qY�f UIUnd U�Yi1IIYp UNU ��q�YI1NU 90 AII�SH U U d U U�IIU srn. r"� _ Connecting Oregon's Community Traffic Safety Advocates Volume 6, Number 5 Grants Reduce, Reuse, and Walk Bicycle Safety Mini -Grants Walking to school has many benefits all on its own. Some schools however, have put a new spin on the have been finalized and are daily trek. Themed walks are not only a way to revitalize a routine but a way to get one started. underway. ACTS Oregon Encouraging children to walk to school is ultimately encouraging fewer parents to drive them. When looks forward to supporting there is less congestion there is less of an opportunity for children to interact with moving vehicles. these exciting projects: A school in Ireland has taken advantage of the themed walking Albany Police Department— day idea by incorporating several different themes throughout 2008 Bicycle Safety Rodeo, the year. In November the school held a Welly Walk, where the Central Point Police children decorated their wellies by painting fish, pirate ships and Christmas decorations on them. Wellies are the Irish Department —Bicycle Safety reference to rain boots. This was a great way to reuse old Program decorations or craft supplies. In Oregon with Spring time Commute Options for weather upon us there are many opportunities to break out the rain boots. Additionally, Central. Oregon—Bikemobile another environmentally minded theme that was done by the same school was carbon -saving day. Traveling Safety Show Everyone walked with a red balloon in hand that read CO2 on it. The children were promoting the fact that by walking they were decreasing their carbon footprint. City of Corvallis —In the Know: When Bicycle Meets Vehicle City of Eugene —Safety Video: Better Driving Decisions by Teens around Cyclists and Pedestrians City of Grants Pass Public Safety —ACTS to Improve Bicycle Safety City of Gresham —Gresham Bicycle Safety Fair City of Keizer—Bikeways Safety Program Malheur County Traffic Safety Commissfon- 400 Bike Helmets Roosevelt Middle School — Safe and Savvy Washington County Bicycle Transportation Coalition — Bicycle Safety Inspection With all these innovative ways to walk to school it is important to keep safety in mind. Children see traffic and other obstacles differently, so it is a necessity to educate children on how to safely make their way to school. In order to educate properly it is vital to understand children's limitations when it comes to traffic. Specifically, children... • Have a narrower field of vision, about 1/3 less than adults; • Cannot judge speed and distance; • Assume if they can see the car; the driver can see them; • Cannot readily tell the direction a sound is coming from; • May be impatient and impulsive; • Concentrate on only one thing at a time. Continued on Page 2 Sharing the Road with Motorcycles The pleasant Spring and Summer weather in Oregon brings out many pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles. Motorcycles are not only a fun mode of transportation; they can also be economical. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation the passenger vehicle averages 22 miles to the gallon, where as a motorcycle averages 50. With the possibility of more motorcycles on the road it is important to be aware of their presence. riders. This steady increase in fatalities over the past decade represents one of our Nation's greatest highway safety challenges. Motorcycle fatalities now account for 11 percent of total road fatalities and have increased each year from a low of 2,116 in 1997 to 4,810 in 2006. So while there has been success in reducing automobile deaths in recent years, this progress is being negated by the rise in motorcycle fatalities, which has more than doubled. That's why May 2008 is "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month." All motorists are reminded to safely "Share the Road" with motorcycles and to be extra alert when driving to help keep motorcyclists safe. Motorcycles are some of the smallest vehicles on the road. One out of every nine U.S. road fatalities accounted for last year involved motorcycle Continued on Page 2 Traffic Safety Connection • April ..................................................For information call 503-643-5620 or 1-800-772-1315.......................................................... 1 ACTS Oregon STAFF Ruth Harshfield Executive Director ruthh@actsoregon.org Gayle Watts Child Passenger Safety Program Coordinator gaylew@actsoregon.org Sandy Holt Child Passenger Safety Technician Coordinator sandyh@actsoregon.org Kate Murphy Community Traffic Safety Coordinator katem@actsoregon.org Tory Brixey Administrative Assistant safety@actsoregon.org BOARD MEMBERS Tammy Franks, President Hillsboro TFranks@LHS.ORG Stephen J. Manning Vice President Keizer stephen687@earthlink.net Lucie Drum, Secretary Portland lucie_drum@amr-ems.com Daniel Marcisz, Treasurer Medford MarcisDE@jacksoncounty.org Larry Christianson McMinnville dejaceo@msn.com John Naccarato Oregon City johnnac@co.clackamas. or. us Ed Simon Newport simonsez@actionnet. net Mike Stupfel Salem Michael.Stuptel@state. or. us Beth Wemple Portland BWEMPLE@kittelson.com Graphic Design by Melissa Gannon Child Safety Seat Recycling Event a Strapping Success Did you know that child safety seats have an expiration date? Most manufacturers put a life limit of six years from the date the seat was made. To help reduce the number of unsafe seats sitting in area vehicles, Legacy held its first free drive -through child safety seat recycling event Saturday, February 23rd, at Legacy Emanuel Hospital. A total of 120 child safety seats were collected during the two-hour event. The seats were taken to the Legacy Recycling Center and separated into materials that may be used to make new child safety seats or other products. Reduce, Reuse, and Walk Continued from Page 1 "Our collection represents 2,700 lbs., or 1.35 tons, of plastic and 150 lbs. of metal that won't be going to landfills," says Legacy sustainability coordinator Tom Badrick. The next child safety seat recycling event was March 22nd, during the 25th Annual Healthy Kids' Fair at Legacy Emanuel Hospital. Expired or damaged seats and bike helmets were collected. Accompanying the recycling event was a child safety seat check up. This was the loth annual check up event at the fair. The event checked a total of 160 child restraints and distributed 41 seats to low income families. Many thanks go out to Legacy Health System. Their effort and involvement in the child passenger safety community is greatly appreciated. Their partnership with ACTS Oregon Child Safety Seat Resource Center has allowed for a much needed service in Portland. Ways in Which One Can Combat These Obstacles Include: • Gauge your child's ability to handle independence. Maybe he or she is not quite ready to make the trek to school entirely on their own. Walking in groups is a good way to solve this problem. Parents can take turns leading the pack. • Practice with your child. Make the walk to school together a few times and point out things that they need to watch. These trial runs are a good time to evaluate how prepared your child is to walk. Practicing safe pedestrian behavior does not have to occur just on the walk to school either. Use the parking lot on the way into the grocery store as a time to stop and cross safely. • Make an effort to show the child the importance of making eye contact with the driver. One never knows if the driver is stopping for you or they are looking at something else. Eye contact solidifies that they have seen you. • Repeat what you have reviewed. Quiz your child on different scenarios and things that you have gone over. This is a great way to gauge your child's level of ability when becoming a solo pedestrian. This is also a way to pinpoint areas that could use a little more practice. All this gauging, practicing, and repeating ultimately forms habits for the child; when something becomes a habit it's less for them to focus on. We would like to hear how schools throughout Oregon are encouraging their students to walk or bike to school. Send us your pictures and stories so we can highlight your successes in this newsletter. Sharing the Road with Motorcycles Continued from Page I Because of their smaller size, motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle's blind spot. It's crucial that motorists always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections. Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger vehicle drivers in the event of a crash. Research shows that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle crashes injure or kill a motorcycle rider, while only 20 percent of passenger car crashes injure or kill a driver or passenger in their vehicle. • Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width —never try to share a lane; • Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections; • Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic; • Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle —motorcycle signals are often not self -canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed; • Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to other vehicles pose major hazards to motorcyclists; Several tips for drivers to help keep Continued on Page 4 motorcyclists safe on our roadways: Traffic Safety Connection •April ............................................Click on www.actsoregon.org for Traffic Safety Information in Oregon..........................................2 Grants Pass Technician Class March 18 to 21, 2008 Grants Pass Fire welcomed ACTS Oregon with that good 'ole southern hospitality. The SAFE KIDS van was even given a bath before returning to Beaverton. With Electric Light Orchestra softly playing in the background, 17 students successfully completed the course lead by a wonderful instructor team, Brandon Meyer — Rogue Valley SAFE KIDS, Dan Marcisz— Jackson County Sheriffs Office, Ruth Harshfield and Sandy Holt —AM Oregon. Oregon's newest CPS Technicians are, Shannon Edwards —Community Volunteer, Curt Lunsford—Brookings Police Department, Brian Dubray—Coquille Tribal Police Department, Michael Pariani—Douglas County Sheriffs Office, Lynette Willingham —Eagle Point Community Bible Church, Tom McGowan — Grants Pass Fire and Rescue, Kevin Blaich, Jamie Reduce the High Cost of the Commute r With the increasing costs of driving, the concerns with traffic congestion and the desire to reduce pollution, more people are looking for alternatives to driving alone. Commuting by carpool or vanpool can save hundreds of dollars each year. But how do you get started? Sharing a ride with other commuters —either in a carpool, vanpool, bus or train, is known as ridesharing. The benefits of ridesharing include: reducing commuting costs, reducing wear and tear on your vehicle, entering a more stress free commute, and helping your community by reducing traffic congestion and the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the air. Frequently Asked Questions: 1. What is carpooling? When two or more people share a ride to a common or nearby destination, that's a carpool. A carpooling arrangement is both simple to set up and very flexible. The number of passengers and days of operation may vary, drivers and vehicles may rotate, expenses may or may not be shared. Joswick & Mike Schmidt — Grants Pass Police Department, Scott Downing — Jackson County Fire District #3, Terri Baldridge & Melissa Valentine —Jackson County Sheriffs Office, Helena Hite — Lake District Hospital, Curt Henckel—Marion County Sheriffs Office, Sue Wilken— Rogue River Fire District, David Allen & Bob Pinnell— State Farm Insurance. A Special Thank You to: • Justin Miller —Grants Pass Fire and Rescue for helping to coordinate this class and providing us with a wonderful class location. • Tom McGowan —Grants Pass Fire and Rescue for providing Ruth and Sandy with warm jackets during chilly hands on testing. • Mark Heater and Jesse Wostenberg—Grants Pass Fire and Rescue who kept Ruth and Sandy looking good on the way home by washing the SAFE KIDS van. planet! One resource to calculate your savings is at wwmcarpoolmatchnmorg/ commutebasic.asp. 5. What Is vanpooling? A vanpool is a group of five to fifteen commuters who ride to work together each day. Vanpools are generally more structured and formalized in their organization than carpools, due to the cost of operating and insuring the van. 6. Could anyone possibly have a schedule like mine? Those with irregular schedules are better candidates for carpooling than vanpooling. Even if there is just one day a week where you work more "regular" hours, you could arrange a carpool for that particular day. More people are working flexible hours; you never know if there may be someone in a situation similar to your own. 7. What if ...You need your car during the day? Be the designated driver of your carpool and drive your car every day. Share the expenses with your rider(s). ...You take your child to daycare? Try making the daycare center the meeting place for your carpool. Or, meet at a centralized location, such as a Park and Ride lot. ...You get into an uncomfortable carpool situation? Establish rules before you carpool and avoid problems in the long run. You can even carpool on a trial basis before making a commitment. ...You need your car for personal appointments or errands? Plan activities on specific days and rideshare the rest of the time. Sharing a ride for just two or three days a week still saves you a bundle. Ridesharing reduces traffic congestion, reduces pollution, and saves money. You can even make new friends in the process! Below are links to rideshare resources in Oregon. 2. Who does the driving? Rideshare Agency Website Links In most carpools, each person takes a turn Area Agency Website link driving their own car, although some carpools Portland Metro www.metro-region.org/vanpool have one driver only. Car Pool Match Northwest www.carpoolmatchnw.org 3. But I don't have a Carl (Hosted by the City of Portland) No problem. Join a carpool as a rider and pay Car Sharing in Portland www.flexcar.com your share of the gas and parking. When you sign Drive Less Save More www.DriveLessSaveMore.com Into CarpoolMatchIVW.org just check "Ride Only." Keep Portland Moving www.KeepPortlandMoving.org Eugene Lane Transit District www.commutersolutions.ltd.org 4. How much will I save by carpooling? Salem Cherriots Rideshare www.cherriotsrtdeshare.org Figuring gas, upkeep, repairs, and parking, you Medford RVTD wwmcarpoolmatchnw.o►g/ could save hundreds of dollars a year by Corvallis Cascades West www.cwride.org carpooling —not to mention your sanity and the Bend Commute Options www.commuteoptions.org Traffic Safety Connection 9 April ............................................Click on www.childsafetyseat.org for clinics scheduled in Oregon..............................................3 Date 04/19/08 04/19/08 04/19/08 04/24/08 04/26/08 05/01/08 05/01/08 05/07/08 05/08/08 05/08/08 05/10/08 05/10/08 05/15/08 05/15/08 Check Up Clinics and Fitting Stations Sharing the Road Please check www.childsafetyseatorgunder Child Passenger Safety/Calendar with Motorcycles for current list, specific dates, locations and times. city Location Address Time Continued from Page 2 Beaverton Police Department 755 SW Griffith Drive 8:45 A.M. to 12:30pm . Allow more following Milwaukie Fire Department 2930 SE Oak Grove Boulevard 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. distance, three or four Salem Hospital 665 SW Winter Street 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. seconds, when following a La Grande Fire Department 1806 Cove Avenue 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. motorcycle, so the Portland Ron Tonkin Honda 300 SE 122nd Avenue 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. motorcyclist has enough La Grande Fire Department 1806 Cove Avenue 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. time to maneuver or stop Redmond Fire Department 341 Dogwood Avenue 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in an emergency. And don't McMinnville Fire Department PLEASE CALL: 503-034-5800 tailgate. In dry conditions, La Grande Fire Department 1806 Cove Avenue 9:00 A.M to 12:00 P.M. motorcycles can stop Beaverton Kuni Cadillac 3725 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. more quickly than cars. Beaverton Police Department 755 SW Griffith Drive 8:45 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Motorcyclists have Lake Oswego Fire Department 300 B Street 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. responsibilities, too, by La Grande Fire Department 1806 Cove Avenue 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. following the rules of the road, Bend Fire Department 1212 SW Simpson 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. being alert to other drivers, and always wearing DOT - compliant helmets and protective gear. Our message to all drivers is: make this the first year in recent years when motorcycle fatalities do not increase. Help to share in the responsibility and do your part by safely "Sharing the Road" with motorcycles. 0 T L^*T— Ulf I CA Ul L.,091T,101: i do"— lip i �O L 'FE"ENCE AF'ElY L9 N 'N" Save These Dates! October 20 to 22 at Seven Feathers Conference Center in Canyonville, OR Traffic Safety Connection 9April ............................................Click on www.childsafetyseat.org for clinics scheduled in Oregon..............................................4