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Source: City of Broken Arrow
New trails that will improve connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians are coming to south Broken Arrow.
The City Council approved a project agreement between the city and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) on July 31, and City Manager Michael Spurgeon says that he eagerly anticipates the project's start.
Greater connectivity within the city is the goal.
"We hear from residents all the time about the importance of connectivity, and I couldn't be happier that we've started this process," Spurgeon said.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, a well-connected transportation network reduces the distances required to reach destinations, increases the options for travel routes, and facilitates walking and bicycling.
It includes multimodal networks with seamless bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, direct routing, accessibility, fewer dead-ends and physical barriers. Connectivity via transportation networks improves overall health by increasing physical activity and providing greater access to health care and goods and services.
The project agreement includes design and construction funding for a 1.5-mile on-street bicycle route from New Orleans Street to West Miami Street on Oak Avenue. Two HAWK (High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk) beacons, which allow pedestrians to cross by stopping vehicular traffic as needed, are also included in the plan.
"The goal all along has been for the city to create an opportunity for people to actually get from the north part of town to the south," Spurgeon said.
The project will cost approximately $1,020,000, with much of the costs paid for by a $765,000 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Grant from ODOT. The City of Broken Arrow will fund 25 percent of the cost, approximately $255,000, and all expenses over $1,020,000.
"There's a lot of people that bike, there's a lot of people that walk," Spurgeon said. "To have a quality community or a great quality of life, trails—bike paths, walking paths are a critical element."
This trail route is a part of the Indian Nation Council of Governments (INCOG) GO Plan which provides a comprehensive regional strategy for pedestrian and bicycle trail improvements. Its mission is to provide connectivity to the existing regional trail network within the Tulsa Metro area.
Next, the city and ODOT will select a consultant to develop this project's plans, specifications, and estimates. Once a design is complete, the project will be advertised for bidding and proceed to construction.
