Cut these road capacity expansion projects: ===========================================
High gas prices this year, which are projected to continue through 2009 have begun to alter the behavior of Americans. Given the resulting reduced traffic volumes and reduced crash rates and the increased usage of alternatives to motor vehicles, I believe it is prudent to delay expanding roadway capacity. It is also prudent to invest now in alternatives. To that end, I would like to submit my list of projects for 2009 that should be scaled back: Project 17-21: CTH M This project should be re-worked without the increase in non-bike lanes on CTH M. Other aspects of this project look good. Project 23: Femrite Drive Phase 2 This project should be re-worked without the increase in non-bike lanes on Femrite Drive. Other aspects of this project look good. Project 30: Hoepker Road This project should be re-worked without the increase in non-bike lanes on Hoepker Road. Other aspects of this project look good. I have solicited public input on the possibility of removing these projects from the capital budget, and it seemed nobody could come up with a compelling argument why the expansions must take place now - in these tough budget times. I would suggest that unless an extremely compelling argument is heard on the council floor, that the above three projects not be funded in their current state. Ideally, the above three projects would be funded to support the simple reconstruction of the road with bike lanes. This could save a significan amount of money, especially the Hoepker Road project. Increase NTMP funding to $500,000 ================================= Additionally, The Neighborhood Traffic Management Program should not be cut to $50,000, it should be expanded to $500,000. This has traditionally been a very popular program with many neighborhoods taking part in the selection process. The Madision Police Department regularly suggests that only Traffic Engineering is capable of addressing traffic issues (the #1 issue in many districts) in the long term. If the MPD is correct, then the funding for NMTP should be increased, not decreased. Support Motor Vehicle Alternatives! =================================== High gas prices have changed the behavior of Americans and polls taken this summer suggest the change may be permanent. Therefore, it seems prudent to accommodate the increased demand for alternatives to single-occupancy motor vehicle travel in Madison wherever possible in the Capital Budget. Matt Logan 1822 Jenifer Street Madison WI 53704 _______________________________________________ Bikies mailing list Bikies@danenet.org http://www.danenet.org/mailman/listinfo/bikies
