Earlier this month, the Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation today released its first-ever countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Marking a significant milestone in Baltimore County’s commitment to enhancing and expanding bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure across the region, the Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation recently released its first-ever countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
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The visionary document offers a strategic roadmap for the development of active transportation infrastructure and was created to reflect the evolving needs of Baltimore County communities. It updates and builds upon the Eastern Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plan(2006) and the Western Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Plan(2012), integrating new development patterns and the growing enthusiasm for active transportation witnessed in the county.
According to the press release:
“We are committed to sustainable and active transportation planning in Baltimore County, which will ensure our infrastructure meets the diverse needs of our residents and create more vibrant and accessible communities,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “The Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan sets a bold new standard for incorporating this growing need in future projects, and I thank the Department of Public Works and Transportation team for its work on this important roadmap moving forward.”
“We’ve listened, learned, and are now ready to act; this is a game changer for our communities,” said Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation Director D’Andrea Walker. “This plan lays down a robust foundation for a future where walking and biking are integral parts of our transportation network. We are ready to transform Baltimore County, making it safer, more accessible, and enjoyable for all.”
The plan identifies existing policies and physical barriers and introduces new policies aimed at fostering complete streets and enhancing active transportation across the county. It provides a prioritized list of bike and pedestrian improvement projects, ensuring that investments are made where they will have the greatest impact.
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan released today offers recommendations to assist in planning for more connected and accessible biking options for users of all ages and abilities, including:
- About 119 miles of shared use paths;
- About 70 miles of on-road bikeways;
- About 33 miles of Complete Streets; and
- About 256 miles of long-term projects.
The Master Plan also provides recommendations to help Baltimore County advance pedestrian safety and sidewalk programs throughout the County, regarding addressing missing sidewalks, maintaining and improving existing sidewalks, incorporating pedestrian facilities in new development, and evaluating pedestrian facilities.
