Farmington’s Future: A Deep Dive into 2025’s Connectivity Goals
The Farmington Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee has laid out an ambitious roadmap for the town’s biking and walking infrastructure in 2025. From school safety programs to sidewalk expansions, the town is committed to making Farmington safer and more accessible for cyclists and pedestrians alike. Here’s a detailed look at the committee’s plans, discussions, and next steps.
🛤️ Safe Routes to School Initiative
Farmington is doubling down on its commitment to student safety with the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program. This initiative focuses on creating safe, accessible routes for students walking and biking to school. Collaboration with the Farmington Board of Education, led by Superintendent Kathryn Greider, is a key priority.
Key goals for SRTS:
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian crossings near Farmington High School and East Farms Elementary School.
- Education Programs: Coordinating with Farmington teachers to implement biking and pedestrian safety lessons.
- Grants and Funding: Pursuing federal SRTS grants to enhance infrastructure.
Superintendent Greider and her team will also work with Assistant Budget Director Dan Rodriguez, focusing on financial strategies to bring these plans to life.
🚦 Jug Handle Intersection Upgrade
Farmington’s Jug Handle Intersection on Route 4 is getting a major safety overhaul. Thanks to a $260,000 state-funded grant, the project will address critical concerns for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Grant Details: $208,000 in state funds matched by a $52,000 contribution from the town.
- Scope: Construction plans include rapid flashing beacons, improved crosswalks, and sidewalks along the south side of Route 4 near the Hill-Stead Museum.
The project is expected to start construction in summer 2025 after an extensive Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) review.
🚶♂️ Sidewalk Connectivity on Route 4
Route 4’s disconnected sidewalks are a longstanding challenge for pedestrians. The town plans to eliminate gaps between Farmington Village and Unionville Center by constructing continuous sidewalks on one side of Route 4.
- Timeline: The design is already complete. Construction will begin pending funding approval in the next Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) cycle, expected to open in 2026.
- Focus Areas: Gaps near Berkshire Bank, 9 School Street, and Naples Pizza at 838 Farmington Avenue.
Town Engineer Dylan Carey and Civil Engineer Justin Stone are leading the project.
🚴 Trail Expansions and Regional Connections
Farmington’s vision extends beyond town borders. Plans are underway to connect local trails to West Hartford Reservoir and other regional biking networks. Discussions with Capital Region Council of Governments (CROG) and neighboring towns like Avon and Simsbury have already begun.
- Key Routes: Extending Farmington Canal Heritage Trail from Farmington Center to the West Hartford line.
- Regional Impact: Improving connectivity between neighborhoods and employment centers to encourage cycling as a primary mode of transportation.
- Funding Strategy: Exploring federal programs like the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant for implementation.
Bruce Donald, East Coast Greenway Trustee, has been a critical advocate for these expansions.
💼 Dedicated Bike-Pedestrian Coordinator
Committee members are proposing the creation of a part-time Bike-Pedestrian Coordinator to oversee education, outreach, and long-term planning. Responsibilities would include:
- Liaising with schools and the Farmington Police Department.
- Writing grants for projects like Safe Routes to School and trail upgrades.
- Organizing community safety seminars.
The proposal, supported by Committee Member Andres Chaparro, will be presented to the Farmington Town Council during the upcoming budget season.
📅 Community Engagement Opportunities
Stay informed and involved! The town is planning several community engagement events to gather feedback and promote safety:
- Public Information Seminars: Hosted by the Farmington Library at 6 Monteith Drive.
- Trail Safety Workshops: Led by certified instructors Ron Karpowicz and Carolyn Lockwood.
- Paddle Palooza: Organized by Jeffrey Porter, Director of Parks and Recreation, at Tunxis Mead Park.
Dates for these events will be posted on Farmington’s updated website.
🌐 Revamped Website Launch
Farmington’s new website is coming in early 2025! Designed to be a hub for all things biking and walking, the site will feature:
- Interactive Maps: Trail details powered by Connecticut Trail Finder.
- Event Listings: From local rides to regional cycling meetups.
- Safety Resources: Partnered with Watch for Me CT for driver and pedestrian awareness tips.
Have photos of your favorite Farmington trails? Submit them to the website team via contact form!
👏 Thank You, Farmington Storage!
This article is brought to you by Farmington Storage, located at 155 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT. For secure and convenient storage solutions, call 860-777-4001 today!
About Jack Beckett:
When I’m not writing, you’ll find me cycling the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail with a cup of black coffee in my hand (don’t try this at home). Dive deeper into Farmington’s stories at We Are Farmington:
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☕ Jack Beckett: Brewing local news with the same care as my morning pour-over. Slow, strong, and never watered down. Cheers to a brighter Farmington future!
