1990 Bikeway/Walkway Plan

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. The recommended routes discussed in section X of this plan should be funded and implemented as VDOT road improvements occur. If the funding for road improvements changes, the timing of the bikeways/walkways should also change to correspond.
2. The recommended trails discussed in section X of this plan should be funded in a timely manner. It is suggested that grant money be pursued as soon as possible.
3. The proposed county shared roads should be marked with signs. These could possibly be funded by the state.
4. A regional committee should be appointed to coordinate and implement bikeways. Members on this group could include representatives from Montgomery County, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford, and interested civic organizations (Virginia Tech's Civil Engineering Society). This group would coordinate the development of new routes and trails; promote bicycling in the area; pursue funding options; update the bike plan; and undertake any other function to promote and develop bikeways/walkways in Montgomery County and the New River Valley.
5. A county or regional bicycle map should be developed. This map would illustrate and discuss various routes for biking in the county. Items that could be included on this map would be the different types of routes, points of interest along each route, the route's degree of difficulty, eating and lodging establishments, and other related information. This pamphlet could be distributed to chambers of commerce or bicycle clubs around the state and could promote this area for regional bicycling.
6. Bike safety programs - both for children and adults, bikers and drivers - should be supported and encouraged. This could be accomplished through the schools (including local universities), through recreational programs, or through drivers education.
7. A maintenance program needs to be developed to address the upkeep of bikeways/walkways. Often bike lanes become depositories for snow, leaves, litter, or other debris. To ensure safe bike paths, these routes need to be regularly cleaned and maintained.
8. To ensure that this plan remains current, this document should be reviewed and updated at least once every five years.
9. Investigate revising the subdivision ordinance to require the dedication and development of biking/walking trails in large subdivisions.