When I look around Buffalo, I tend to judge commercial districts by their bike-friendliness. A street that is not bike-friendly is probably not pedestrian-friendly either. And street that is not conducive to walking, is probably not the best place for families, shopping, etc. Take a closer look at Hertel for example. The street has come a long way, but can you imagine what Hertel would be like with bike lanes, dedicated crosswalks, and an overall traffic calming treatment?
Then there’s North Oak, Elm Street, Michigan Avenue and North/South Division Streets. These might as well be highways through this city. But just think what would happen with if bike lanes were added and other traffic calming measures were put in place?
In order to bring bike-friendly measures to Buffalo, GObike Buffalo, the City of Buffalo, Alta Planning and Design, Wendel and Mustard Seed Consulting, will be giving a final presentation of a Master Plan for bike lanes, cycle tracks, new paths and neighborhood bikeways. The presentation will demonstrate the future of interconnected bike infrastructure that we can expect in years to come throughout the city.
“Making bicycling an integral part of life in Buffalo will not only benefit the city both financially and environmentally but will improve the health of our citizens,” said Mayor Brown.
“Throughout Bike Month we have seen people across the city clearly demonstrate their desire for Buffalo to become bicycle friendly,” stated Justin Booth, Executive Director of GObike Buffalo. “From small group rides, bike to school day and the installation of 110 new bicycles racks – citizens and businesses alike are enjoying safe opportunities to ride more often.”
The City’s commitment to cycling includes:
- Construction of 10 miles of bike lanes per year
- Complete Street Projects: Ohio Street, Pearl Street, Niagara Street, and Kenmore Avenue
- 110 new bicycle racks throughout the city
“City’s across the country are choosing to support bicycling as a mode of choice because it is a vital component in people’s decision as to where they want to live and to building a vibrant local economy,” said Booth. “Buffalo is well on its way to becoming a Bike Friendly City, recognized by the League of American Cyclists with bronze level status in 2013. By the end of 2015, Buffalo will have over 80 miles of bike lanes in its network.”
Final Presentation | Buffalo City-Wide Bicycle Facility Master Plan | Thursday, May 21st | 6 PM | Downtown Buffalo and Erie County Public Library’s Auditorium.
Lead image: Mayor Brown on National Bike to Work Day