🚴 Everything You Need to Know About the October 9, 2024, Bicycle Advisory Committee Meeting 🚴
Did you miss the latest Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting? No problem! Here’s a detailed recap of what happened on October 9, 2024, with all the key proposals, updates, and action items discussed by committee members. Watch the entire meeting on YouTube here to catch every moment.
Meeting Kickoff at 7:02 PM ⏰
The meeting began at 7:02 PM with some light-hearted confusion about note-taking duties—Bruce Donald stepped in to take on the task. With no public comments, the committee jumped straight into new business.
🚴♂️ Proposed Pump Track at Tunxis Mead
Andres Sanborn introduced an exciting proposal to build a pump track at Tunxis Mead, offering a new recreational activity for Farmington’s residents. For unfamiliar people, a pump track is a looped course of rollers and banked turns where riders “pump” their bikes to gain momentum rather than pedaling. Andres suggested the grassy area near the brush dump as an ideal site, as it would avoid disturbing the old landfill. Watch Andres present the proposal here.
Key points discussed:
- The design would feature a downhill layout with rollers, berms, and tabletop sections, suitable for all ages.
- Canton recently built a similar pump track, which could serve as a model.
- Maintenance could be handled by volunteers, with potential grant opportunities available for funding.
- To address concerns about ATVs, fencing could be used to protect the track from damage.
- A subcommittee, including Bruce Donald, Matthew Ross, and Carolyn Dube, will be formed to explore the feasibility and details further.
Part-Time Bike Coordinator Consideration 🚲💼
The committee discussed the possibility of hiring a part-time bike coordinator, a role expected to command approximately $40/hour. The position would focus on advancing biking initiatives in Farmington. Bruce Donald suggested sharing the role with nearby towns like Canton or Avon to reduce costs, while Andres Sanborn and Neil Rogan pointed out the benefits of regional coordination. The proposal will be presented to the Town Council for budgeting discussions in January.
Debating Speed Limits on the Greenway 🚨
As e-bikes gain popularity, the committee addressed concerns about speed on the Greenway. Bruce Donald discussed potential state-level legislation for multi-use trail speed limits, which could give towns the authority to set rules. The enforcement, however, might be challenging. Committee members had varied opinions, with Andres Sanborn and Matthew Ross advocating for minimal regulation to avoid over-policing a popular recreational spot. For a closer look at the debate, click here.
Updates on Other Initiatives 📋
- Signage for the Flats: Dylan Henehan will finalize options for electronic speed signs and trail signage for the Flats, with plans to implement changes next year.
- Safe Routes to School Initiative: Ron Job is leading efforts to establish a Safe Routes to School program to promote safe biking for students.
- Board of Education Representative Search: The committee continues to seek a Board of Education member to join, with Carolyn Dube emphasizing the value of collaboration on school biking programs.
Unified Signage Coming to Farmington Canal Heritage Trail 🏞️
Bruce Donald shared exciting news about upcoming unified signage for the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. This initiative will standardize trail markers and mileposts across different towns, enhancing navigation for trail users statewide.
Thank You to Our Sponsor! 🙌
A special thank you to Farmington Storage for sponsoring the We Are Farmington website and supporting community initiatives. For storage needs in Farmington, visit them at 155 Scott Swamp Road or call 860-777-4001. Your belongings will be safe and secure with Farmington Storage.
📝 Jack Beckett, Senior Writer at The Farmington Mercury ☕
Jack Beckett here, signing off with a freshly brewed cup of coffee (because quality journalism demands caffeine). Don’t forget to check out The Farmington Mercury for in-depth coverage on everything from editorials and election news to community updates and job opportunities. Real estate on your mind? Browse our For Sale section for the latest listings.
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