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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-08 EEC Meeting PacketDraft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Minutes City Of Edina, Minnesota Energy and Environment Commission Edina City Hall, Community Room January 11, 2017, 7:00 p.m. I. Call To Order Chair Manser called the meeting order. II. Roll Call Answering roll call were Fernands, Glahn, Hoffman, Jackson, Kostuch, Madhok, Manser, Seeley, and Waddick Late Arrival: Absent Members: Horan, Satterlee, and Shanmugavel Staff Present: Staff Liaison Tara Brown, and Sharon Allison III. Approval of Meeting Agenda Motion made by commissioner Waddick and seconded by commissioner Jackson to approve the Jan. 11, 2018, meeting agenda. All voted aye. Motion carried. IV. Approval of Meeting Minutes Motion made by commissioner Jackson and seconded by commissioner Kostuch to approve the Dec. 14, 2017, meeting minutes. All voted aye. Motion carried. V. Special Recognitions and Presentations A. Greater Southdale Area District Plan Mr. Michael Schroeder and Mr. Michael Wolff gave an update on this plan. They explained that over the last two years of planning for the 700-acre site work included creating working principles that were done by a group of residents, Planning Commission members, business owners, and City Council appointees, plus two consulting firms. They discussed their outcomes, deliverables, and philosophy, including using the consultants as resources and not as leaders of the group – the plan’s framing is being developed by residents and not the consultants or staff. The plan is no longer a small area plan given its size and potential $20B of new development. The group is working to seamlessly integrate the area into adjoining neighborhoods. During discussion, they confirmed they are communicating with agencies that are impacted such as City of Richfield and their school district, City of Bloomington, Hennepin County, Met Council, etc. The EEC recommended they include more than resiliency in their plan and Mr. Schroeder said they are hopeful the EEC will put forward policy plans in the Comprehensive Plan that can be incorporated because the planning group will not get to go in-depth as it relates to energy and efficiency. Mr. Cornejo, a consultant added that he is also hopeful for a robust policy from the EEC because there are many opportunities to implement their ideas. The EEC members were invited to their next meeting, Jan. 25, 6:30-8:30, at the Chamber of Commerce, 3300 Edinborough Way. Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: Handouts included the following: 1. Southdale: Potential District Approach to Sustainability and Resilience (1/11/18 DRAFT) 2. District Scale Guidelines Summary VI. Community Comment None. VII. Reports and Recommendations A. Comprehensive Plan Discussion Commissioners Lori Richman and Bocar Kane from the Edina Transportation Commission (ETC), were in attendance to learn what the EEC concerns are and how ETC could write their Transportation Chapter to support the EEC. Commissioner Richman said some of the things the ETC is looking at are autonomous cars, electric bikes and reducing surface parking. The EEC did not offer any specific goals but recommended they consider environmental principles such as emissions, protecting water source, plantings in median, amount of salt used, and natural plantings. Commissioner Richman said most of their recommendations are included in the ETC’s Living Streets Policy. She asked what was their biggest concern with transportation. Some suggestions were not to prioritize bike lanes that will not be used; do not remove parking and force drivers to drive around to find parking; west side of Edina is cut off from the east side (Vernon/50th/Highway 100) if you’re a pedestrian or biking; find a way deal with local traffic versus cut thru traffic; reduce service vehicles (deliveries and garbage trucks); consider solar or low energy lights; consider pervious asphalt to slow storm water run- off. Staff liaison Brown announced that Comp Plan consultants Mr. Dan Cornejo and Ms. Haila Maze, were in attendance to assist the EEC with their discussion. Ms. Maze handed out a list of topics. Commissioner Jackson shared with them what the EEC had drafted and there were overlaps in topics. For areas where the EEC believe they do not have influence, Mr. Cornejo suggested adding a list at the end of their chapter that shows how other chapters are related. They briefly discussed the importance of the first section of the chapter. Commissioner Jackson asked commissioners to write one or two sentences that they would like to have on the first page. B. Limited Liability for Certified Salt Applicators Ms. Brown said Council approved adding this time to the EEC’s work plan. Motion made by commissioner Waddick and seconded by commissioner Jackson to send an advisory communication to the City Council regarding a resolution on chloride contamination and the limited liability bill. All voted aye. Motion carried. VIII. Correspondence and Petitions A. 2018 EEC Meeting and Roster List Brief discussion – no action. B. Revised 2018 EEC Work Plan Brief discussion – no action. Draft Minutes☒ Approved Minutes☐ Approved Date: C. Working Group Minutes • Minutes received from Business Energy Efficiency and Conservation (BEEC), and Education and Outreach. Commissioner Jackson said on Jan. 24 the BEEC will be looking at Tenant Energy Use at Centennial Lakes. IX. Chair and Member Comments Commissioner Jackson said she met with park district representatives on ice sheets and making snow and opportunities for the Art Center and the Ice Arena to become a showcase for energy efficiency retrofitting. X. Staff Comments • There were 67 Home Energy Squad visits in quarter four, and since the article in About Town, staff has been receiving many calls. • There are two opened spots on EEC – think about what skill sets you’re looking for as you plan for the interviews at the end of January. XI. Adjournment Motion by commissioner Glahn to adjourn the meeting. Motion seconded by Commissioner Jackson. All voted aye. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. J F M A M J J A S O N D # of Mtgs. Attendance % Meetings/Work Sessions 1 1 NAME Glahn, William 1 1 100% Hoffman, Howard 1 1 100% Horan, Michelle 0 0% Jackson, Carolyn 1 1 100% Kostuch, Keith 1 1 100% Manser, Richard 1 1 100% Satterlee, Lauren 0 0% Seeley, Melissa 1 1 100% Shanmugavel, Ramesh 0 0% Waddick, Louise 1 1 100% Fernands, Madeline (s) 1 1 100% Madhok, Gauri (s) 1 1 100% ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update Commission Instructions WORK OBJECTIVES Commissions are being asked to: 1. Review and analyze policies and goals outlined in the 2008 Comprehensive Plan to determine their current relevancy 2. Identify which existing 2008 policies and goals should be: a. eliminated or retained b. retained and modified c. completely re-written or d. created for inclusion in a current chapter and/or new chapter 3. Engage with other commissions a. identify overlapping topics/issues b. work together to determine relevancy of each other goals and policies c. assist with writing additional goals and policies 4. Make recommendations to policies, goals and/or the addition of content a. Commissions will meet report on recommendations at a Planning Commission work session. b. Schedule: March 28 Heritage Preservation Commission (5:30pm) Transportation Commission (5:50pm) Energy and Environment Commission (6:15pm) April 11 Parks and Recreation Commission (5:30pm) Arts and Culture Commission (6:15pm) April 25 Community Health Commission (5:30pm) Human Rights and Relations Commission (6:15pm) 5. Final Commission Review and Comment a. Each commission will review a draft of the 2018 Comprehensive plan and provide final comments back to the Planning Commission. b. Expected timeline: July 2018 INSTRUCTIONS & TIMELINE October 2017 A 2008 Comprehensive Plan chapter(s) will be given to the Commission whose work is most closely related. For example, members of the Edina Transportation Commission will receive the Transportation Chapter from the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. Objective 1 November 2017 Commissions will discuss their chapter(s), giving attention to goals and policies at the conclusion of each chapter to determine their current relevancy. It is anticipated that the discussions will include critical evaluations of the goals and policies using the following considerations and documents: Changes that have taken place since the 2008 Comprehensive Plan Examples of changes include: Economy, Environment, Demographics, Housing, etc. Vision Edina 2015 and Big Ideas Report (2017) Commissions should review chapters through the eight Vision Edina strategic focus area lenses. Additional Edina Guiding Documents Chamber of Commerce – Economic Development/Stakeholder Engagement Analysis (January 2017) Quality of Life Survey (August 2017) Living Streets Plan (2015) Affordable Housing Policy (2015) Parks, Recreation and Trails Strategic Plan (2015) Metropolitan Council System Statement for the City of Edina (2015) Objective 1 November 2017 Determine if the goals and policies outlined in 2008’s Comprehensive Plan should be: eliminated or retained retained and modified completely re-written or created for inclusion in a current chapter and/or new chapter Objective 2 Dec 2017/ Jan 2018 Engage with other to discuss overlapping issues and assist with writing appropriate goals and policies. Objective 3 Jan/Feb 2018 Complete work objectives Objective 1,2,3 March 2018 Make recommendations to policies, goals and/or the addition of content Commissions will present recommendations to the Planning Commission at March work sessions. Objective 4 July 2018 Review and Comment on draft 2018 Comprehensive Plan Objective 5 2008 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHAPTERS A Commission will be provided a chapter(s) as the lead reviewer. This does not mean Commission’s cannot provide input on other chapters AND there may be cases when a Commission creates content that might be better served by its own chapter. The 2008 chapters includes: Land use Transportation Housing Water Resources Parks Health Heritage Preservation Sustainability Community Facilities and Services Chapter Responsibility Chart: We will look to Commissions for input on chapters most closely related to the goals and missions of the Commission. The chart designates the chapter or chapters your commission will be asked to focus on. Chapter Title Commission(s) Community Profile Human Rights and Relations Commission Community Health Commission Landuse & Community Design Planning Commission Housing Human Rights and Relations Commission Heritage Preservation Heritage Preservation Commission Transportation Transportation Commission Water Resources Management Energy and Environment Commission Parks, Open Space and Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Commission Arts and Culture Commission Energy, Environment, and Resilience* Energy and Environment Commission Community Services and Facilities Parks and Recreation Commission Community Health Commission Human Rights and Relations Commission Arts and Culture EEC Comprehensive Plan Introduction Statements During the January 11, 2018 EEC meeting, Commissioners decided that each Commissioner would write a one to two sentence introduction for the Comprehensive Plan about Sustainability. Below are those statements. The people in Edina strongly value a healthy environment. Therefore the City encourages all building projects in Edina to incorporate sustainability design to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, limit storm water runoff and water pollution, and minimize solid waste. ~Vice Chair Jackson Edina via its elected leaders and city staff always has to make trade-offs about decisions that will affect the City and its citizens for years and possibly decades to come. The key value of this Comprehensive Plan is that it provides a framework that forces the explicit consideration of relevant factors such as: - public safety and health - economic sustainability and growth - environmental sustainability - broadly defined community values - and a number of other factors. ~ Commissioner Kostuch Sustainability means that we, the youngest generation and the oldest, can have a future that is full of possibility and hope. ~ Commissioner Fernands The citizens of Edina are ready for Edina to be a leader in sustainability. The City encourages incorporating sustainable practices into the daily frameworks and workings of the City and its buildings to protect the environment of Edina for generations to come. ~ Commissioner Madhok Principles of sustainability and resiliency must be at the core of all land use decisions made by City of Edina staff and policymakers. Each development decision must consider the ‘triple bottom line’ – people, planet and profit – so that the economic factors are not favored over the health and welfare of the City’s natural environment and/or its residents. Sustainable development is defined as ‘development that considers social, economic, and environmental factors to achieve joint goals of human health and welfare, environmental protection, and economic stability or growth.’ Resilient development emphasizes ‘the need to build the resilience of systems, buildings, infrastructure, and communities to prepare for and respond to increasing climate variability. ~ Commissioner Waddick Comprehensive Plan Discussion Directions to writers of Comp Plan: When writing the new chapter, keep it concise. Current chapter is too long with too much backstory. Chapter should be a summary, ideally less than 6 pages, with an appendix that can provide a history and more specific examples. When maps are added (i.e. gross solar potential map), add that the fact that the map was a point in time. If possible, add real-time or updated maps over time. Throughout the plan, EEC wants to see: • City operations be a leader. • City staff consider the impact of climate change on making decisions on staffing and services. • Environmental sustainability and stewardship framed in practical outcomes and trade-offs. Values and Goals 1. Value Statement: The City of Edina supports environmental policy and practices values that positively impact the community. Environmental stewardship was identified as one of seven key strategic focus areas for the City. Vision Edina stated: Community residents and stakeholders believe that Edina can take an active and ambitious internal and regional leadership role in embedding environmental stewardship principles through actions such as promoting more comprehensive recycling, smart building and energy efficiency practices. a. This includes clean energy, reduction of GHG emissions, clean water, responsible management of solid waste, clean air, ecological health and wise management of natural resources. To summarize: Reduce, reuse, recycle. 2. Goals: Goals are our way to prioritize action, get resources, and measure our actions. Meeting these goals will require trade-offs by communities. a. GHG goal: 30% Greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions reduction by 2025, 80% emissions reduction by 2050. i. Meeting this goal will necessitate discussions on trade-offs in development & density and their carbon impacts. For example, density can provide a lower carbon footprint per resident and new development can be more energy efficient. But increasing the population through density would increase community the community’s carbon footprint. b. Waste goal: Reduce residential waste 75% by 2030. c. Add goals arising out of the partners in Energy Program (Summer 2018) c.d. Other government entity and community goals(reference water section for water goals) d.e. Note: Goals are the top referenced section of this Comp Plan chapter. 3. Development Guidance: As the City considers development and density option they must consider the tradeoffs to the environment. Avenues 4. Policy: The city will focus through staff and commission to amend and approve policies that support sustainable actions, meet sustainability goals, and meet the needs of the community. 5. Education: We encourage city to connect on policies, learn best practices. a. We will use opportunities with city staff, EEC, organized neighborhoods, neighbor-to- neighbor, and business organizations to promote sustainable actions. 6. Alliances: Edina is a part of a larger community. It is important to build alliances across City Commissions, with Edina School District, Chamber of Commerce, Hennepin County, and other government entities within the region to connect on policies, learn best practices, and share resources. Topic Areas 7. City facility – City facility and operations will lead by example and commit resources to achieving our sustainability goals. This would include: a. Integrating strategy, planning, and budgetary decisions b. Encouraging city staff to embed sustainability into decision-making, budget process, capital improvements and build alliances across City Departments. c. Operations - Green building policy, net new city buildings i. Operational aspects (like irrigation, tree canopy and green space). ii. Share resources example (South Metro training center.) d. Report - setting baselines and report out on (e.g. energy utilization, purchasing, new buildings) 8. Commercial Industrial Guidelines - This includes non city owned government and nonprofit entities a. Constructions & Design- encourage green buildings, energy guidelines , give to get options, demolition b. Operations – encourage energy consumption/efficiency, minimize waste, water quality, water drainage i. Solid waste c. Capturing opportunities to educate (with appendix of big ideas) d. Drainage and impervious surfaces, run-off plans e. Energy efficiencies and residential energy options f. Lawns and plant diversity - permeable lawn, grass (appendix the weed) Tree policy, g. Rebate and financial options 9. Residential a. Utilize policies available to support green buildings (design, materials, etc), energy efficiency and residential energy options, responsible demolition, pervious surface use, smart water use (ex. Irrigation), reduction of waste and plant biodiversity (including tree canopy and green space). i. Give to get options was mentioned as a policy form. b. Continue to reassess policies that impact drainage and impervious surfaces (i.e. construction permits needing run-off plans) and look for ways to stack benefits (i.e. utilizing native plants that can absorb run-off, support pollinators, and clean water versus use of a buried cistern) c. Beyond policy, look for opportunities to educate (with appendix of big ideas) 10. Subject Areas a. Solid waste – Encourage all to think of their waste footprint, use the waste reduction pyramid (i.e. rethink, reduce, reuse, recycle), and anti-littering to reduce waste and its impact on the environment. i. As we manage waste (i.e. trash, recyclables, and organic recyclables), continue to find ways for reduction via pick up options, hazardous waste, green demolition, sharing economy, and the circular economy. b. Energy – Commission to review the LogoPEP work ii.i. The city consider energy resources and reduction and their impact on our city’s goals. b.c. Water – See Water Chapter and notes below . Water is governed by the water chapter. Here are the guiding principles: i. Sewage management – Monitor environmental opportunities such as grey water ii. Surface water management - Creating resilience plan for severe weather events and volatility. Consider the effect of development and increased impervious surfaces on stormwater management Encourage resiliency systems iii. Water quality – Protect water quality including the connection between stormwater and groundwater policy and continue to consider the factors affecting water quality iv. Wetlands – value the protection of wetlands v. Water supply – value the protection of the water supply c.d. Air Quality – Promote clean energy and other actions to improve air quality such as reducing transportation emissions d.e. Tree canopy has many stacked benefits (carbon sequestering, reduction in heat island effect, storm water mitigation, support wildlife, etc). Review policy and actions that support tree canopy and benefits. e.f. Natural habitats – Consider other natural resources such as soil, natural habitat, sunlight Other Chapters and Commission Notes: Planning • Density and Development discussion: Overall impact of density within the geographical outlines. Density can provide a lower carbon footprint per resident, but increase the population would increase community the community’s carbon footprint. • Live, work, and play. Development that is more efficient has mixed use, which allows people to cut their transportation carbon footprint when they live and work in close proximity. • Look for opportunities for district level sustainable, environmental, and resiliency benefits. Water • Sewage management – No comments. Will grey water come into effect? • Surface water management - o Stormwater - Creating resilience plan for severe weather events and volatility. Encourage resiliency systems o Water quality - Consider the connection between stormwater and groundwater policy o Wetlands - Do we talk about the relationship development and wetlands? Ask Jess if we have a map on wetland • Water supply – No comments Definitions for review Environment: factors that act upon a community and ultimately determine its form and survival, including the impact humans have on natural resources. Sustainability means protecting regional vitality for future generations by preserving our capacity to maintain and support our region’s well-being and productivity. Resilience is the ability to recover from a disaster that could have been prevented or mitigated with sustainable practices. City of EdinaPedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan DRAFT FOR PMT REVIEW - 02/01/18 2 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Acknowledgments We gratefully acknowledge the participation and contributions of the following individuals and organizations: Project Steering Committee (PMT) Mark Nolan, City of Edina Transportation PlannerChad Millner, Director of EngineeringBrian Olson, City of Edina Director of Public WorksTara Brown, City of Edina Sustainability CoordinatorLou Miranda, City of Edina Transportation CommissionJennifer Bennerotte, City of Edina CommunicationsDan Conboy, City of Edina Police DepartmentCarter Schulze, City of Edina Assistant EngineerJim Nelson, Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission Edina Transportation Commission (ETC) Tom LaForce, ChairLou Miranda, PMT memberSurya IyerErik RuthruffMindy Ahler Community Stakeholders We are especially grateful to the hundreds of Edina residents who shared their experiences and guidance during the public outreach and engagement process for this plan. Consulting Team Community Design Group212 3rd Avenue North, Ste 515Minneapolis, MN 55401612-354-2901www.c-d-g.org Short Elliot Hendrickson (SEH)3535 Vadnais Center DriveSt. Paul, MN 55110800-325-2055 www.sehinc.com Aboubekrine KaneLarry OlsonLori RichmanJenny MaTessa Yeager 1 This document, developed by the Edina community, is a tool to guide the efforts of the City’s staff members as they work together to create a safer, more comfortable and inviting comprehensive pedestrian and bicycle network. 2 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Executive Summary 4 i. A walkable, bikeable Edina 6 ii. What’s in the plan 7 iii. Guiding principles 8 1. Approach 12 1.1 Plan goals 16 1.2 Why walking and biking? 18 1.3 Building a plan for a variety of users 24 1.4 Plan framework: the 6 E’s of pedestrian 26 and bicycle planning 26 2. Existing Conditions 28 2.1 Edina in context 30 2.2 Existing pedestrian and bikeway system 42 2.3 Existing and concurrent plans and policies 46 2.4 Community engagement 54 3. Recommendations: Engineering 58 3.1 Approach and Overview 60 3.2 Pedestrian network recommendations 64 3.3 Bicycle network recommendations 68 3.4 Transit integration, bikeshare, and mobility hubs 72 74 3.6 Facility maintenance 75 3.7 Bicycle parking 82 3.8 Policy recommendations 84 4. Recommendations: Education 86 4.1 Active Routes to school (ARTS) in Edina 88 4.2 Other Education Campaigns 90 5. Recommendations: Encouragement 92 5.1 Open Streets and community events 94 5.2 Travel demand management 95 Table of Contents 3 6. Recommendations: Enforcement 96 6.1 Enforcement and system safety 98 7. Recommendations: Evaluation 102 7.1 Evaluation and performance measures 104 7.2 Counting program 106 7.3 Performance targets 109 8. Recommendations: Equity 110 8.1 Increasing equitable access 112 9. Implementation 114 9.1 General approaches to implementation 116 9.2 Network implementation and prioritization 117 9.3 Program Implementation 123 Appendix A: Infrastructure Toolkit Appendix B: Public Engagement Report 4 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 1 Introduction and approach 5Introduction 1.1 A walkable, bikeable Edina 1.2 What’s in the plan 1.3 Guiding principles 1.4 Plan goals 1.5 Why walking and biking? 1.6 Building a plan for a variety of users 1.7 Plan framework: the 6 E’s of pedestrian and bicycle planning 6 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Walking and biking are basic and sustainable forms of transportation that provide healthy, affordable, and enjoyable options for reaching our daily destinations. Walkable, bikeable places provide safe, comfortable, interesting, and useful walking and biking routes and destinations and offer freedom of travel for people of all ages, abilities and incomes, including the young and elderly. About this Plan This plan is a guiding document that offers recommendations - including routes, facilities and programs - to improve walking and biking in Edina so these options become safer, more convenient and more inviting and enjoyable options for people who live, work, and play in the city. The plan uses two key approaches for framing its recommendations: »An Active Living approach that seeks to make walking and biking comfortable and normal everyday activities for connecting to work, school, parks, transit and other community destinations »A 6Es approach that uses a combination of on-the-ground improvements with supportive programs (maps, community events, safety campaigns and others) to make improvements in the city and grow walking and biking. The Plan builds on the many investments and improvements that have been completed over the last ten years, and looks ten years into the future for its recommendations. 1.1 Introduction How the Plan was developed The project team worked closely with Edina residents, staff and improvement, and to develop a vision for walking and biking in the city. Latest and best practices in network, facility and program design were used to analyze and address the issues noted by residents and to respond to other safety, connectivity and comfort issues discovered by the project team. An implementation plan was developed to identify priorities for funding and building improvements. 7Introduction The plan’s Vision is a statement that describes the future of Edina after the plan’s recommendations are implemented. It was developed from the comments and ideas gathered through the Plan’s Transportation Commission: Edina is an innovative, people-friendly community where people of all ages and abilities walk and bike for transportation, safe, comfortable, inviting and convenient everyday activities during the entire year. Edina uses a cost-effective and integrated 6Es approach (engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement, evaluation and equity) to equitably grow walking and biking throughout the community, and to sustainably develop and maintain its existing and future infrastructure and programs. Edina is a national model for the integration and development of Active Transportation into the fabric of a developed and 1.2 Vision 8 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 1.3 Why plan for walking and biking? Safety Comprehensive pedestrian and bicycle transportation systems help improve safety by providing interconnected networks with fewer gaps, more separation from Livability Increasing transportation options helps achieve broader community goals including access to jobs, neighborhood schools, and services. Access to destinations / mobility Walking and bicycling increase access and overall mobility, allowing people of all ages and abilities to reach more destinations throughout Edina. Health Active transportation options, like walking and biking, provide an opportunity for residents to build physical activity into their daily lives. In general, communities with higher rates of walking and bicycling have lower rates of obesity, and higher percentages of residents meeting weekly recommended physical activity levels. Household and community prosperity Walking and biking are affordable transportation options that reduce the cost of transportation for all. People who walk or bike for at least some of their trips are able to save on many costs associated with vehicle ownership, freeing up budget for other necessities and luxuries. 9Introduction Cleaner air When more people are able to walk, bike, or take transit to meet their cleaner air and reductions in harmful pollutants caused by vehicle exhaust. Recreation Walking and biking are among the top desired recreational activities in Metropolitan Council surveys, especially among older residents. During public engagement, for other purposes. Parking and congestion alleviation Over 25% of trips in the U.S. are shorter than one mile. That’s a 20-minute walk, or a 5-minute bike ride, an approachable distance for most people. Fewer people driving means less congestion on existing roadways, less demand for parking, less choose to walk or bike. Regional economic competitiveness Communities with trails and other safe walking and biking infrastructure attract tourism, and the economic boost that comes with it. Businesses that can be easily from customers who have additional ways to access stores. Replacing driving trips with walking and biking keeps more money in the local economy by not exporting it to purchase fuel. If each household in Edina were able to buy one fewer gallon of gas each month at $2.50/gallon by walking and biking more, they would save a combined $620,000 a year to use in the local economy. What Edina residents want Over one thousand Edina residents shared their ideas, and priorities for improving walking and bicycling in the city. Their guidance was incorporated into the plan’s recommendations. This is what they said: • Walking and riding a bike are fun and valued activities in the city. • There are gaps in the current network • Walking and biking close to motor daily use of these options less attractive. • across intersections in larger roads in the city. • Maintaining walking and biking facilities throughout the year (including winter) is important. • routes to destinations can sometimes 10 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 1.4 Goals What are the goals for the plan? The goal for the plan is very simple: to increase the number of Edina residents, workers and visitors who walk or bike for in the city. How will we achieve this goal? We’ll achieve this goal by doing these two things: »Providing a continuous network of safe, comfortable and inviting facilities, and, »Implementing a full range of effective and proactive programs that support increased walking and biking in the city - including programs in community education, encouragement, enforcement, and evaluation. 11Introduction of all trips in the U.S. are three miles or shorter of all trips are shorter than one mile of all those short trips are taken in private motorized vehicles. Did you know? Health starts in the communities where we live, work, and play. The way communities are planned and designed community members. Active living policies and initiatives help make physical activity (like walking or biking) a useful, easy, fun and normal part of everyday life for a community’s residents. Active living is important for a community because it can: • Improve physical and mental health; • Make walking and biking safer; • Bring people together to build safer, stronger communities; • air quality, maximize green space, and reduce transportation costs for families; and • Decrease the risk and severity of chronic disease and medical costs. Active living approach The most harmful pollutants are emitted within minutes of starting a car. Short trips pollute more per mile and have a bigger negative impact on environmental and physical health than longer trips. 50% over25% 2/3 12 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan These are the principles that will help Edina achieve its goals and vision: Improve safety, perception of safety, and user comfort Proactively address conditions at intersections, facilities or trail locations where issues of safety or user perception of safety exist. Increase comfort of existing facilities to address user perceptions or preferences and grow walking and biking trips in the city. Develop facilities and address gaps Provide facilities and connections where needed and develop walking and biking networks that offer continuous, high-quality, comfortable connections. Use an “All Ages and Abilities” approach to provide safe routes for all To grow walking and biking in the city, implement improvements and facilities that are designed for the safe and comfortable use of the majority of Edina residents, including children, seniors, and adults - including those who are not currently walking or biking in the city today. Networks provide the framework for improvement Continuous, consistent and comfortable route networks for walking and biking provide the armature for investment and for developing facilities in the city. Connectivity for everyday uses and needs High quality walking and biking networks that connect to useful everyday destinations like schools, work, transit, neighborhoods, parks and other community destinations make it easy and convenient for more people in Edina to choose these modes for a greater portion of their transportation and mobility needs. 1.5 Guiding principles 13Introduction Connect to regional and local assets and destinations Safe and convenient walking and biking facilities connect to destinations in Edina and neighboring communities. Connections to the growing network of regional walk and bike trails expand the number of potential destinations available to Edina residents and provide increased access to our region’s assets. Evaluation is the foundation for continuous improvement Ongoing and continuous quantitative and qualitative evaluation of investments guides Edina to cost-effective, productive walking and biking investments that result in increased walking and biking in the city. Overall success for the plan is measured by growth in the number of people who walk or bike in the city. A “tactical urbanism” approach supports experimentation and innovation Pilot projects and other temporary approaches for experimenting and evaluating potential solutions help identify cost-effective, useful investments in the city’s walking and biking networks. A year-round approach Year-round safe and inviting walking and biking requires a year-round approach for maintenance, communications and programming. A sustainable, resilient network Infrastructure and programming investments consider their environmental, social and economic sustainability, and build supporting frameworks for their continuation into the future. Facilities and connections that offer multiple routes for accessing destinations, high quality materials and design, proactive maintenance, and responsive resident engagement help develop and maintain a resilient system serving the needs of Edina residents well into the future. 14 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 2 Guidance from the Edina community 15Recommendations 2.1 What we did 2.2 What we heard 2.3 What it means for the plan 16 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 2.1 What we did Connecting with Edina residents was a key priority for the plan. We conducted extensive in-person and online engagement to receive comments and guidance from Edina residents detailing their current experiences and their aspirations for the future of walking and biking in the city. as the comments and guidance from Edina staff and other stakeholders. A detailed summary of public engagement efforts can be found in Appendix B. Where did we go?We held several in-person events to share project information and gather resident comments. Events included: • Kick-Off Open House (July 2017) • Centennial Lakes Farmer’s Market (Pop-Up Workshop) • Jerry’s Foods (Pop-Up Workshop) • Bredesen Park (Pop-Up Workshop) • Edina High School (Listening Session) • Final Open House (December 2017) Gathering comments from Edina residents at Bredesen Park. 17Existing Conditions Participants at the Edina Farmer’s Market Pop Up. ENGAGEMENT BY THE NUMBERS In-person events offered people to share experiences and ideas for improving walking and biking in the city Unique users logged into the interactive online map use or would like to use Map comments, including destinations, routes, barriers, and ideas shared in person and online Project surveys completed online680 OVER300 6 OVER700 In-person engagement Activities for in-person engagement varied slightly events, but in general included the following: »Plan overview »“I Love / I Wish” activity (what’s working and what needs work) »Identifying barriers and prioritizing solutions »Mapping destinations, routes, barriers, and ideas »Opportunities for general comments and questions. Students providing their comments at a session at Edina High School. 18 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Online engagement The plan also included a robust online engagement effort, including: »A project website (EdinaMN.gov/Pedestrian BicycleMasterPlan) to disseminate project updates and information »An interactive online mapping tool (Wikimap) where residents could comments or ideas, as well as routes and improvements »An online survey to receive resident comments and information related to their priorities and issues they experience while walking or biking Edina Online materials were designed to closely match in-person activities. The online tools were launched in May 2017, and results were analyzed and used to shape the plan’s vision and recommendations. The City also used its social media channels (including Facebook and Twitter) to promote the plan’s online tools, and announce public events. Engagement with City Staff and Boards Throughout the plan’s development, the project team worked closely with City Staff and Boards, including: »The Project Management Team (PMT), made up of staff from Edina departments, including Public Works, Planning, Police, Communications, Sustainability and boards including the Human Rights Commission »The Edina Transportation Commission (ETC), who was regularly updated on plan progress and provided their comments and guidance on plan developmentThe plan’s website was a resource for sharing plan information. At a meeting of the plan’s Project Management Team (PMT). Detail from the plan’s Wikimap. 20 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Figure 2.7 – Map of Public Engagement Comments (in- person and online) Current walking routeCurrent biking route Barrier to walkingBarrier to biking Route pedestrian would take if improvedRoute cyclist would take if improved A destination in Edina biking An idea for improvement Routes Data source: Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Engagement 2017 62 100 100 62 169 169 22 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 3 Existing conditions and analysis 23Existing Conditions 3.1 Edina in context 3.2 Existing pedestrian and bikeway system 3.3 Existing and concurrent plans and policies 24 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 3.1 Edina in context Regional context County along the Minnehaha Creek. It is bordered by St. Louis Park and Hopkins on the north, Prairie on the west. Edina is located in southern Hennepin County, southwest of Minneapolis. State highways and county roadways that travel through Edina. Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail is a key regional asset. Hennepin County Edina 1 Minneapolis 2 100 62 62 100 169 169 3 100 100 6262Nine Mile Cree k Trail 169 169 1 2 3 25Existing Conditions Regional corridors Roadways Major roadway corridors include Highway 62, running through the city from east to west and Highway 100 running through the city from north to south. Highway 169 creates the western border of the city while Interstate 464 creates the southern border. Highway 100 and Highway 62 divide the city into four quadrants. County Road 17 (France Avenue) is also a main route in the eastern portion of the city. Bikeways One regional bike trail is located within Edina. The western segment of Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail runs through the southern part of Edina. There are also several miles of on-street bicycle routes along Blake Road, Interlachen Boulevard, Vernon Ave, 44th Street, and 70th Street. The City of Edina also has a robust network of city and neighborhood parks, many of which include recreational trails. Current and ongoing planning efforts by Edina’s Parks and Recreation Department include expanding the city’s existing trail network to improve park and trail connectivity and access. Existing sidewalks Existing bicycle infrastructure Existing neighboring networks Planned neighboring networks Data source: City of Edina 100 100 62 169 169 62 26 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Transportation at a glance Here are a few transportation-related facts (from the US Census) to understand current travel patterns in the city. Hennepin County 23Min. Edina 20Min. Commuting Time... Fewer than half the percentage of Edina residents use transit to commute to work than those in Hennepin County. The number of employees who work from home was higher than the county average by 3 percentage points. How does Edina commute to work? Walks 1.5% Public Transit 3% Carpools 7% Drives alone 78% Works at home 8% Bicycling Less than 1% How do Edina’s current rates of walking and biking to work compare with nearby cities? 1.3% 2.2% 0.6% 3.5% 7.2% 4.3%1.7% 4.0% 0.7% 1.5% Edina Minneapolis St. Louis Park St. Paul Walking Biking 27Existing Conditions ETHNICITY White, 87% Asian, 6% Black & African American, 3% Hispanic & Latino, 2% Two or more races, 2% American Indian & Alaskan Native, 0% Age distribution in Edina 20% 56% 24% 1.75 cars2.3 persons What’s the average household size in Edina? Edina’s population is generally both older and younger than Hennepin County as a whole. About one fourth of residents are under 18, with another fourth above 65 years of age. Offering safe and comfortable transportation options for them will be important! Other demographic information Population growth, income and ethnicity The population of Edina is increasing at the same rate as Hennepin County as a whole at 4% in the last 5 years. The population of Edina is expected to increase by another 10% by 2040. Although the median household income of Edina is higher than the county average, there are still 5 percent of Edina residents living in poverty. Making sure that low-income and transit-dependent households (those without access to a motor-vehicle) have walk, bike and transit options to reach their daily destinations will help ensure more equitable transportation outcomes in the city. 28 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Existing Land Uses Industrial Public/Semi-Public Multi-Family Residential Parks and Recreation Retail/Commercial Single-Family Residential Vacant Existing land uses The majority of land use in Edina is single-family residential. Pockets of retail and commercial use are found along county roads and highways. Parks and recreation areas are available throughout the city. Data source: City of Edina 100 100 6262 169 169 29Existing Conditions Circulation 1888. Housing development started in the early 1900s in what is now the Morningside neighborhood within the city’ northeast quadrant. Save for exceptions in the older parts of the city (as well as in new development currently being considered), land uses are generally separated from each other, with a roadway network that follows a typical suburban pattern of minor arterials (generally Hennepin County roads spaced about every mile) providing automobile-oriented connections to commercial areas, employment centers, and other major destinations. Neighborhood streets provide limited connectivity within the larger grid – often ending in cul-du-sacs or a dead-end, onto higher-speed, higher-volume arterials. Highways 100 and 62 create east-west and north-south barriers for pedestrian and bicycle circulation within the city. Data source: City of Edina 30 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Transit Edina is served by Metro Transit bus service with suburban local and limited stop commuter routes. The city is also just south and east of several stations for the planned SWLRT Green Line Extension, a light rail transit service that will extend from downtown Minneapolis to St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka and Eden Prairie. Five stations for SWLRT are located within one mile of the city’s boundary. Existing Metro Transit bus stop Existing Metro Transit Park & Ride Planned Station Location Planned Green Line Extension alignment .25 mile bus transit station buffer (5-minute walk) .5 mile LRT station buffer (3-minute bike ride) P Existing Transit and Planned Blue Line Extension (SWLRT) 100 100 62 62 169 169 P Data source: Metro Transit 31Existing Conditions Schools Considerations for Safe Routes to School Twelve schools, including public and private elementary, and middle schools and one high school are located within Edina city limits. A Safe Routes to School (SRTS) plan was completed in 2014. Recommendations from that plan, called the Edina Active Routes to School (ARTS) Plan, are included within this plan’s pedestrian and bicycle recommendations. School location (public elementary, middle, and high schools; higher education) 0.25-mile and 0.5-mile school buffers (5–10 minute walk) 62 100 100 62 169 169 Schools and enrollment Data source: City of Edina 32 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Parks and trails The City of Edina offers numerous parks and transportation opportunities to people walking and biking in the city. In addition to neighborhood parks, the city offers several parks with community-wide and regional The Recreation and Parks Department has recently developed a comprehensive Park, Recreation and Trails Systems Strategic and trails as a major asset to the city, and includes recommendations to improve access to parks by developing a more connected trail system. PARKS, RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | 25 INTRODUCTION City of Edina Parks, Open Space & Trails Map Park Area Lake/Pond Nine Mile Creek Trail CreekOpen Space Wetland WOODDALE PARK UTLEY PARK BROWNDALE PARK TODDPARK HIGHLANDSPARK GARDENPARK MELODY LAKEPARK ARDEN PARK PAMELA PARK STRACHAUER PARK ROSLANDPARK ARNESONACRES FRED RICHARDS PARK CENTENNIAL LAKES EDINBOROUGHPARK YORKTOWNPARK LAKE EDINA PARK EDINA PROMENDADE CORNELIASCHOOL PARK LEWIS PARK MCQUIRE PARK HEIGHTS PARK NORMANDALE PARK BRAEMARGOLF COURSE CREEK VALLEY PARK BREDESEN PARK WALNUT RIDGE PARK FOX MEADOW PARK VAN VALKENBURG PARK COUNTRYSIDEPARK BIRCHCREST PARK TINGDALE PARK ST. JOHNS PARK CHOWEN-PARK YORKPARK GRANDVIEW SQUARE FRANK TUPAPARK SHERWOODPARK KOJETINPARK WEBER FIELDPARK ALDEN PARK BRAEMARPARK WILLIAMS PARK • • • • • • • • • Data source: City of Edina Park, Recreation and Trails Systems Strategic Master Plan 33Existing Conditions 3.2 Existing pedestrian and bikeway system and to run errands to nearby commercial destinations. Assets and opportunities Existing sidewalks and trails Edina includes a portion of a major regional trail, the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail. The city also has several local trails that connect to parks and other destinations. Sidewalks and/or trails are present on one or both sides of most major corridors in Edina. Addressing gaps in the existing network will help to increase the network’s accessibility, connectivity, and usefulness as a transportation network. Expansion of METRO Green Line The METRO Green Line Extension is a planned light rail transit corridor that will connect St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie, passing in close proximity to Edina. The Green Line within a mile from Edina. Service is planned to begin in 2021. The introduction of the Green Line Extension provides an opportunity to increase multimodal transportation options and travel to, from, and within Edina. Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Fund (PACS) The Edina PACS provides approximately $1.2 million per year for the construction and maintenance of non-motorized infrastructure. Since 2013, over ten miles of new sidewalk and 37 miles of bicycle infrastructure have been constructed. Citywide Active Routes to School initiative Edina approved an Active Routes to School plan in 2014. Active Routes congestion and cleaner air in school areas, reduced transportation costs for school districts, parents and students, and improved health and academic performance among students. Many Edina schools are adjacent to community centers or athletic facilities, so in addition to providing safe routes to school, recommendations support safe routes to community assets for a wide range of residents to enjoy. In addition to infrastructure improvements, education, encouragement, and enforcement programming can increase safety, support, and appeal of M MENTUM since 20082014, the City updated itssidewalk plan to include several more miles of proposedsidewalk facilities in the City, and amended this into its Comprehensive Plan miles of sidewalk constructed since 2013 8 2013 Increase safety, public and environmental health, transportation choice, economic benefits and community identity through infrastructure and facilities projects Citywide. 2014BRONZEBICYCLE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY 1.2MPEDESTRIAN & CYCLIST SAFETY ANNUAL FUND by the numbers Active (Safe) Routes to School Comprehensive Plan2014 The Living Streets Policy 37 miles 34 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Existing Pedestrian and Bicycle Network Existing parks and trails are an asset to walking and biking in the city. Existing sidewalks Existing bicycle infrastructure Existing neighboring networks Planned neighboring networks Existing Pedestrian and Bikeway System Data source: City of Edina 100 100 62 62 169 169 35Existing Conditions Challenges Distance to important destinations Separated land uses are prevalent in Edina. Many Edina residents report living too far away portions of Edina’s population do live within walking and bicycling distance of commercial, educational, and recreational destinations. Safe, convenient, and enjoyable connections within neighborhoods and between destinations are one way to increase opportunities for walking tools for reshaping people’s perceptions about distances, and encouraging them to walk and bike more often. Limited route options volume, high-speed roadways that provide fairly direct routes to commercial, employment, recreational, and educational opportunities with disjointed curvilinear streets between the walking and biking. A well-gridded street network enables people walking or biking to choose low-stress routes with relative ease by shifting to streets that parallel busy arterials. In Edina, options for well-connected alternate routes are limited. Local, low-stress streets often end in cul-de-sacs and dead-ends, or simply funnel users (pedestrians, bibicycle riders, and drivers) back onto the same busy roadways. Pedestrian- and bicycle-exclusive cut-throughs can be one effective way to mitigate connectivity limitations of cul-de-sacs, allowing people walking and bicycling to access neighboring streets 36 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Infrequent and inconvenient crossings Edina’s arterial roads often provide the most direct routes from Point A to Point B, and connect the city’s most important destinations. These important connections typically have long blocks with limited crossing opportunities for people walking and biking. When crossings do exist, they are often long (crossing several vehicle travel lanes and channelized right-turn lanes) and inconvenient (complicated signal timing with multiple turning phases with long wait times for people walking or bicycling). Edina is bisected in both the north-south and east-west directions by two highways. This does underpasses or overpasses are spaced anywhere from a quarter-mile to over a mile apart – thus necessitating a 5–20 minute walk simply to cross the street at a signal. Major arterials, such as France Avenue, run through the city. Signalized intersections and marked crossings are provided every few blocks, however, people walking and biking are sometimes right-turn lane crossings). Similar conditions are common along Edina’s minor arterials, and contribute to making walking and bicycling in the city sometimes challenging or inconvenient. Long crossings also passively encourage unsafe behavior among people walking and biking, who Gaps in the existing network Sidewalks and/or sidepaths are provided less frequently on neighborhood streets. There are opportunities to upgrade existing facilities on important corridors, implement on-street bicycle facilities where appropriate, and install new sidewalks and sidepaths to eliminate gaps. Planning for and providing a continuous network of safe, comfortable, and convenient pedestrian and bicycle facilities within neighborhoods and connecting to important destinations is one of the fundamental steps in creating opportunities for more people to walk and bike in Edina. 37Existing Conditions 3.3 Current plans and policies City plans and policies Edina Park, Recreation and Trails Strategic Plan (2015) The Edina Park, Recreation and Trails Strategic Plan was adopted by the City of Edina in 2015. The plan establishes existing conditions connections, facilities and parks, park programs, maintenance and safety, and resident engagement. The plan provides a resource for the Parks and Recreation Department to better address the changing needs of the community and to prioritize investments. area for improvement and continued investment. One of the plan’s key recommendations, which is picked up by this Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan, is development of the Edina Grand Loop, a high quality, separated walk / bike trail that connects with existing walk / bike / trail assets and provides circulation across all four city quadrants, connects with surrounding communities, and links many of Edina’s prominent parks and recreation assets. PARKS RECREATION & TRAILS STRATEGIC PLAN | 77 STRATEGY AND PLAN City of Edina Proposed Trail Network Nine Mile Creek Trail Proposed Grand Loop Proposed Support Trails WILLIAMSPARK WOODDALE PARK UTLEY PARK BROWNDALE PARK TODDPARK HIGHLANDSPARK GARDENPARK MELODY LAKEPARK ARDEN PARK PAMELA PARK STRACHAUER PARK ROSLANDPARK ARNESONACRES FRED RICHARDS PARK CENTENNIAL LAKES EDINBOROUGHPARK YORKTOWNPARK EDINA PROMENDADE CORNELIASCHOOL PARK LEWIS PARK MCQUIRE PARK HEIGHTS PARK NORMANDALE PARK CREEK VALLEY PARK BREDESEN PARK WALNUT RIDGE PARK FOX MEADOW PARK VAN VALKENBURG PARK COUNTRYSIDEPARK BIRCHCREST PARK TINGDALE PARK ST. JOHNS PARK CHOWEN-PARK YORKPARK GRANDVIEW SQUARE FRANK TUPAPARK SHERWOODPARK KOJETINPARK WEBER FIELDPARK ALDEN PARK BRAEMARPARK 38 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 100 100 6262 169 169 City of Edina Comprehensive Plan (2008, 2018) Edina’s previous Comprehensive Plan was completed in 2008. An Update to that plan is being completed concurrently with this plan. The Comprehensive Plan is a long-term plan that addresses community-wide issues and desires, with an emphasis on special planning areas. Environmental sustainability and active transportation are prominent topics covered in the Comprehensive Plan. Pedestrian and bicycle travel are recognized as essential components of the transportation system. Sidewalks and trails along streets are intended to enhance pedestrian and bicyclist safety by providing separation from street City of Edina Comprehensive Bicycle Transportation Plan (2007) completed in 2007. The plan sought to improve conditions for cycling in Edina by reducing hazards, by developing and improving Edina’s bicycle transportation infrastructure and by inviting Edina residents, workers and visitors to include this safe, comfortable and convenient transportation option into their daily mobility habits. The bicycle component of this Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan is intended as an update of the vision, goals and priorities from that plan. About 37miles of bicycle facilities were completed in Edina following adoption of the 2007 plan. City of Edina Pedestrian Facilities Comprehensive Plan Amendment (2014) The Edina City Council approved an amendment to the 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update that includes an updated Sidewalk Facilities Map, so that an approved sidewalk network can be considered during the planning and design of current and future roadway reconstruction projects. Technical analysis and proactive community engagement led to a list of improvements in all four quadrants of the city. Existing sidewalks Nile Mile Creek Trail 39Existing Conditions 100 100 6262 169 169 City of Edina Active Transportation Bike/Pedestrian and Bicycle Parking Action Plan (2013, 2014) City of Bloomington Public Health contracted with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota to make short-term and long-term strategies so that the surrounding areas could become more bicycle friendly. As part of this effort, BikeMN and the City of Edina hosted a workshop and a mobile-workshop to discuss ideas with stakeholders. The Active Transportation Bike/Pedestrian Education and Bicycle Parking Action Plan was a cumulation of these efforts. Bicycle Friendly Community Feedback Key Steps to Silver (2014) In 2014, the City of Edina was recognized as a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bibicycle riders. Edina was ranked on a number of factors that lead to safe and healthy bicycle travel. They outlined seven key steps to reaching the Silver Level Living Streets Plan (2015) In 2015, the City of Edina developed a Living Streets Plan to implement the Living Streets Policy outlined in the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. The goals of this plan were centered around safe walking, biking and driving, reducing stormwater runoff, reducing energy consumption, and promoting health. The Living Streets Plan will assist the City in meeting mandatory requirements set by other agencies through the Green Step Cities programs and Tree City USA. Edina Active Routes to School Comprehensive Plan The City of Edina created an Active Routes to School (ARTS) Plan to identify opportunities and priorities to increase walking and biking to schools. Recommendations include infrastructure improvements to create safer walking and biking routes as well as policy improvements that can be integrated into school curriculum. Existing sidewalks Proposed ARTS sidewalks Nile Mile Creek Trail 40 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Building on engagement efforts completed for previous plans Public outreach and engagement has been conducted for numerous plans, studies, and projects in Edina and Hennepin County. In many cases, engagement revealed important experiences and insights about walking and riding a bike in the city. The following engagement summary reports were reviewed as part of the Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan: • Edina System Strategic Plan Community Needs Assessment• City of Edina Comprehensive Plan Engagement Results Vision Edina 2015 Vision Edina represents the future of Edina. This document was a vision and framework as an outcome of broad community engagement and visioning process, conducted between September and December 2014. This Vision is a long-term strategic framework to guide important decision-making processes that will impact Edina’s future. The document lays out key Grandview District Transportation Study The Grandview District evolved and changed dramatically throughout its history. The Grandview District Transportation Study addresses recommendations and aligns itself with the Grandview District Framework Plan to create a place where Living Streets meets everyday life. Southdale Area Transportation Study The Southdale area is a well-traversed portion of the City. The goal of this study was to update both low-cost and high-cost options. 41Existing Conditions Hennepin County Active Living Policies and Partnership Active Living Hennepin County, founded in 2006, is a county-led increase opportunities to be more active on a daily basis. Through the program, partners are supported in the development of Complete Streets policies, active living resolutions, improved infrastructure design guidelines, and policy implementation. Active Living Hennepin County also provides a resource for communities seeking funding and technical support for active living initiatives. Hennepin County Complete Streets Policy Edina is located within Hennepin County, which in 2009 became the of the policy is to ensure that streets under the county’s jurisdiction are designed and operated to assure safety and accessibility for all roadway users including people walking, biking, driving, and taking transit. Hennepin County Transportation Systems Plan In 2011, Hennepin County and the Metropolitan Council adopted the 2030 Hennepin County Transportation Systems Plan, which establishes long-range transportation goals for the county. “Bicycle use and environmental factors. These values support the development of an interconnected bikeway system that supports recreational trips and utilitarian trips that connect to job centers, commercial centers, schools, transit, and other important destinations.” Hennepin County Public Works Strategic Plan The Hennepin County Public Works Strategic Plan guides the implementation and administration of its programs and projects. departments (Planning, Policy and Land Management; Environment and Energy; Transportation (Road and Bridges); Community Works; recognizes the importance of increasing transportation choices and supports bicycling as a means to achieve the county’s vision for a seamless transportation network. The plan emphasizes the role of active living and complete streets and provides strategies and actions to further the county’s commitment to these policies. County Regional plans and policies Regional Trails provide access to neighboring cities. 42 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Hennepin County Pedestrian Plan (2013) The Hennepin County Pedestrian Plan was adopted in September 2013. The Pedestrian Plan is part of the county’s overall 2030 Transportation Systems Plan, and supplements the county’s Complete medium to medium-high priority for pedestrian improvements. Hennepin County Bicycle Plan (2015) Hennepin County and Three Rivers Park District partnered to develop the 2040 Bicycle Transportation Plan, which the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners adopted in April 2015. The Plan aims to promote bicycling for commuting and recreation by building a safe bikeway system that connects county residents to destinations. update their own bicycle transportation plans. See Figure 2.6 on the next page for Hennepin County Bicycle Plan recommendations in Edina. Hennepin County “Cool County” Initiative Hennepin County’s Cool County initiative aims to reduce greenhouse reduction by 2025 and an 80% reduction by 2050, from a baseline set in 2005. The effort will include practices to reduce transportation emissions. 43Existing Conditions Hennepin County Bicycle Plan Recommended Network Existing Edina Bike Infrastructure Existing Hennepin County infrastructure Planned county bicycle infrastructure Existing and Planned Bikeway Systems Data source: Hennepin County 100 100 62 62 169 169 44 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Three Rivers Park District Plans and Policies Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail Master Plan The Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail runs through southern Edina. The route was unbuilt through Edina prior to the Master Plan implementation. The Edina segment is bring implemented in two phases. Three Rivers Park District Vision Plan The Three Rivers Park District Vision Plan is a forward-looking plan that offers action-oriented goals to respond to expected future environmental, economic and social changes throughout the region. Regarding walking and bicycle trails, the plan recommends developing a sustainable funding mechanism to account for recent and future increase in trail users and in recognition of the importance of trails as a component of the transportation network. Metropolitan Council Plans and Policies METRO Green Line Extension Planning & Bike Study Planning is underway for the METRO Green Line Extension. Several of the stations lay within walking distance of Edina. The project is area design and beginning construction. A Station Area Planning Community Working Group (CWG) has been established by the City of Edina and Hennepin County. Through extensive outreach, residents and business representatives have the opportunity to share comments regarding land use, urban design, and infrastructure around the stations. Construction for the METRO Green Line Extension is expected to begin in 2018, with passenger service commencing in 2021. A METRO Green Line Extension Bike Study led by Hennepin County is also underway to examine and recommend bicycle connections within three miles of station locations and has been coordinated with this plan for consistency. Metropolitan Council Transportation Policy Plan and Twin Cities Regional Bicycle System Study The Transportation Policy Plan (TPP) presents Metropolitan Council’s policies and plans to guide development of the region’s transportation system. The 2040 TPP was adopted by Met Council in January 2015. development guide. The TPP contains chapters on transit, pedestrian, and bicycle investments, and includes the Regional Bicycle System Study. Completed in 2014, the study was developed to better understand key regional destinations, develops guiding principles, and proposes a regional network and framework for monitoring system performance. Bicycle Transportation Network: W 50th Street, Blake Road S, Interlachen Boulevard, Benton Avenue, Tracy Avenue, W 66th Street, W Shore Drive, Gleason Road, Hilary Lane, and Dewey Hill Road. Metropolitan Council Regional Parks Policy Plan The Metropolitan Council adopted the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan in February 2015. This plan works with Thrive MSP 2040 to create a 30-year vision for the region. The Regional Parks Policy Plan emphasizes the importance of equitable access to parks by all residents, promotion of multimodal access, and the expansion of the 45Existing Conditions Regional Parks System to conserve and preserve natural resources, connect communities, enhance quality of life. Edina has one regional trail, Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail. Statewide Plans and Policies MnDOT Complete Streets Policy and Work Plan MnDOT adopted a Complete Streets Policy in November 2013 and updated in 2015. This policy requires that Complete Streets designs be considered at each phase of MnDOT projects including planning, construction, maintenance and operations. Complete Streets policies encourage context-sensitive designs that are accessible and safe for users of all ages and abilities, and balance the needs of pedestrians, bibicycle riders, transit users, and drivers. The Complete Streets Work tasks and timelines for Complete Streets implementation work. MnDOT Minnesota GO Vision and Statewide Multimodal Transportation Plan Minnesota GO is a 50-year visioning document that focuses on how to best invest funds in a statewide transportation network. The Statewide Multimodal Transportation Plan provides policy and direction for implementing the vision established in Minnesota GO. The Statewide Multimodal Transportation Plan was revised in 2017. MnDOT Statewide Bicycle System PlanThe Statewide Bicycle System Plan follows the Statewide Bicycle Planning Study, and falls within MnDOT’s Minnesota GO family of plans. Community engagement was completed in March 2015. Thousands of comments were received, including several in Edina, to help guide the development of the Statewide Bicycle System Plan. A draft Plan was released for public comment during Summer 2015. Minnesota Walks Formerly known as the Statewide Pedestrian System Plan, MnDOT and the Minnesota Department of Health are co-lead the statewide planning efforts. Extensive public outreach and engagement efforts were completed during 2015. The plan was completed in the Spring of 2016. Safe Routes to School Minnesota Safe Routes to School Minnesota provides planning and implementation grants for programming and infrastructure improvements to make it safer for children to walk or bike to school. Planning grants fund Safe Routes to School plans at the school, district, or city wide level. Communities that have a plan in place are better prepared to pursue additional funding and support for infrastructure and programming implementation. 46 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 4 Framework for recommendations 47Recommendations 4.1 The 6 E’s of pedestrian and bicycle planning 4.2 Building a plan for a variety of users 48 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 4.1 Plan framework: the 6 E’s of pedestrian and bicycle planning One effective way of thinking about and implementing pedestrian and bicycle planning initiatives Encouragement, Enforcement, Evaluation, and Equity – commonly known as the 6 Es. Engineering Education Encouragement EquityEvaluationEnforcement 49Recommendations EngineeringEngineering recommendations focus on “on-the-ground” improvements - including the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure or facilities - like roads, sidewalks, bikeways, intersection treatments, signage, and end-of-trip facilities. EducationEducation programs share information about how to access and use existing facilities and amenities, about the rules of pedestrian and bicycle safety trainings, and educational campaigns, among others. EncouragementEncouragement programs inspire more people to try walking or biking through fun and inviting activities including friendly competitions, incentive programs, inclusive group rides, and community-wide events like Open Streets. Enforcement like speed limits, parking regulations, and safe roadway behavior from all users. EvaluationEvaluation programs measure the success of investments at achieving desired outcomes. Evaluation takes place before and after programming and infrastructure improvements to establish a baseline and measure progress overtime. Examples of performance measures that may be evaluated include public perception, behavioral changes and modal shifts, and network safety. EquityEquity focuses on distributing facility and programming improvements fairly throughout a community to ensure that residents of all neighborhoods and population groups have equal access to high quality facilities and programs. Equity throughout a community to overcome economic, geographic, social, and physical barriers to walking and biking. 5 2 3 1 4 6 50 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 4.2 All Ages & Abilities: Building a plan for a variety of users When implemented, the Edina pedestrian and bicycle network will provide safe, comfortable, and inviting routes and places for walking and biking. Increased use will depend not only on improving the network for those currently walking and biking, but also on attracting new users (those uncomfortable with the current system), especially for short trips. When evaluating implementation strategies, it is important to consider and understand general attitudes toward walking and bicycling. Bicycle riders maneuvering Attitudes toward walking and bicycling People have an increasing desire to live in places where they can comfortably walk or bike more often for recreation, health and for understanding the varying needs and comfort levels of existing and potential bicycle riders is the “Four Types of Bicycle Geller, Bicycle Coordinator at the City of The framework has been tested across numerous communities in the United States, and is remarkably accurate in the relative composition of the populations it includes. 51Recommendations Interested but concerned (about 60% of adults) “I like the idea of biking, but I don’t bike much (or at all) now. If I do bike, I often ride with others, and stick to the trails. Comfort is my highest priority.” This group represents the largest potential market for increases in ridership. People in this group prefer off-street paths, and may ride for transportation if bikeways feel safe. Comfortable conditions while biking are a priority. Interested but concerned riders do not self-identify as bibicycle riders, and would not feel guilty if they never biked again. Many people in this group could easily become more or less active riders - a good network may bump them into the enthusiastic experiences may push them into the not able or interested group. Not able or interested (30% of adults) “No way, no how.” This group includes people who have no current interest in bicycling, or who are physically unable to bike. Some members of this group could transition into the interested but concerned group if environmental or personal circumstances changed. Strong and fearless (about 1% of adults) “I am a cyclist. I feel comfortable riding with cars and taking the lane on any street.” People in this group are undeterred by any roadway condition or design. They typically self-identify as bibicycle riders, and may wear specialized gear and ride high-performance bikes. They often choose the shortest route when biking for transportation, and seek challenges when biking recreationally. Separation from people walking or slower bicycle riders may be more important to these riders than separation from people driving. Their passion for bicycling can make them strong advocates, but their bicycling experience differs from that of most people. “I will bike for transportation or recreation. I feel best riding on bike lanes, but will take the lane if necessary.” People in this group are comfortable sharing the road with motor They may go a little out of their way for a better bikeway. Bicycling is often a secondary part of their identity, and they may choose to bike to maintain this status. They may wear clothing that works well for biking, but is also wearable as everyday clothing. within the total population of a community: 52 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 5 Engineering 53Recommendations Engineering recommendations focus on “on-the-ground” improvements - including the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure or facilities - like roads, sidewalks, bikeways, intersection treatments, signage, and end-of-trip facilities. 5.1 Approach and overview 5.2 Pedestrian network recommendations 5.3 Bicycle network recommendations 5.4 Transit integration, bikeshare, and mobility hubs 5.6 Facility maintenance 5.7 Bike parking 5.8 Policy recommendations 1 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 54 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 5.1 Approach and Overview An incremental approach Edina has many assets for walking and biking in place today. The goal of recommendations in this chapter is to address gaps in the network, increase user comfort for existing and future facilities, and provide a supportive framework for maintaining current assets and for future planning and policy actions that will increase walking and biking in the city. One key component of the plan’s approach for future improvement is to identify smaller, incremental steps that can be quickly implemented and tested and prepare the foundation for future, permanent improvements. Recommendations are based on network analysis, site visits, best practices, and engagement with the Project Management Team and the general public. Please note: Additional investigation and completed by a licensed engineer prior to implementation. Goals for ENGINEERING recommendations Improve routes, facilities, policies and practices to: • Fill gaps in the existing network • Address concerns of population currently walking and biking in Edina • Attract new users by developing a safe, comfortable, and inviting network • Provide connections to important destinations including schools, neighborhood parks, commercial areas, employment, transit, and regional corridors • maintain the city’s facility investments • Support new models for sustainable, provide supportive policy and planning recommendations 55Recommendations Network overview Strategic Plan was to promote connections to the park system within the city, and to the surrounding region by prioritizing development and implementation of a multi-use trail network connecting parks and facilities together, and to key destinations throughout the City. A city-wide trail loop spanning the outer perimeter of the city was conceived as the Grand Loop. The Grand Loop concept, along with a second more centralized, inner-city trail loop proposed in this plan provide the foundation for the primary pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure framework. These two loops form the “backbones” of the proposed network and provided the basis for a secondary network of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure that connect to the outer and inner loop. A third network Neighborhood Slow Streets provides connections from neighborhoods to the larger secondary network and inner/outer loops beyond. A general introduction: Four pedestrian and bicycle facility types Numerous types of facilities and treatments exist for addressing the needs of people walking and biking in our cities. Four facility types are selected for discussion here as they are included in the majority of the routes discussed in this plan. Please note that a “Toolbox of Pedestrian and Bicycle Treatments and Best Practices” detailing all facilities with potential application in Edina is included in this Plan’s Appendix. Sidewalks Sidewalks are paved concrete or asphalt paths designed for pedestrian use. A well-connected sidewalk network is the foundation of pedestrian accessibility - the quality of connections between sidewalks (across roadways) determines the overall usefulness of the walkways provided. High quality sidewalks provide level and unbroken surfaces, ADA-compliant curb ramps, and Trees and plantings, and additional facilities like benches, waste receptacles, and public art provide additional user comfort and interest. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance The Edina Promenade offers pedestrians and bicycle riders comfortable connectins to many destinations. 56 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Shared-use paths A shared-use path (SUP, often also known as trail) provides a shared space for people walking and biking that is separate from work better when they include fewer Shared-use paths are often provided along busier roadways when on-street bicycle facilities are not feasible, and at locations along streams and railroads, and through parks. SUPs provide increased separation at parks and natural assets to provide more scenic routes. Striping of shared-use paths helps to clarify passing lanes, and identify separate lanes for people walking or biking in high use areas. Shared-use paths should generally be a minimum width of ten feet. Eight foot widths are acceptable for short distances or in constrained spaces. Asphalt is recommended to help differentiate from sidewalks, provide a smoother surface for wheeled users, and to reduce installation costs. Shared-use path recommendations include segments of the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Park, Recreation, and Trails Systems Strategic Master Plan. The Edina Promenade is a shared-use path that provides safe connections to commercial and residential areas. 57Recommendations Neighborhood Slow Streets Neighborhood Slow Streets (also known as bike boulevards) are residential streets that speed tables, or others. Neighborhood slow streets make walking and biking easier and safer by reducing motor vehicle speeds and by improving along the corridor. Route signage, pavement markings, and stop sign orientation can help highlight the street as a bikeway. Bicycle lane Bicycle lanes designate a portion of the roadway for preferential use by bicycle pavement markings and signage. Bike lanes separate bicyclist and motorist travel comfort. Three types of bicycle lane facilities are recommended for consideration in Edina: »Conventional bicycle lanes »Buffered bicycle lanes »Separated or protected bicycle lanes 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance Neighborhood slow streets in Edina allow pedestrians and bikers to comfortably travel to destinations. 58 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Conventional bicycle lane A conventional bicycle lane designates a portion of the roadway for bicyclists alongside motorized vehicles. Bike lanes can be a low-cost option when adequate right-of-way is available. It provides low to moderate separation from motor vehicles. Buffered bicycle laneBuffered bike lanes include an additional painted buffer space to increase separation between bikers and motor vehicles. If 0n-street parking is present and space allows, there should be an additional buffer between the bikeway and parking space. Buffered bike lanes may attract the “interested but concerned” bike group. Separated / protected bicycle laneProtected bike lanes may be on-street or off-street. The main characteristic of this bike lane is its physical separation from motor vehicles. On-street bicycle lane barriers can include bollards, planters, and concrete walls. This type of bikeway encourages the most users because of its large separation from 60 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 5.2 Pedestrian network recommendations The recommended Edina pedestrian and bicycle network provides a denser, more equitably distributed network of sidewalks, bicycle infrastructure and shared-use trails. Building on the city’s sidewalk system Recommended sidewalk and shared-use path connections are consistent with city gap/need analysis, with additional recommendations to expand access and route options. Expanding shared-use path network Dual-side shared-use paths are recommended along minor arterials to allow for comfortable travel along the city’s most direct corridors. Recommendations for trail connections along Nine Mile Creek Trail are consistent with previous and ongoing planning efforts. Connecting to placesSidewalks and shared-use paths are recommended along roadways connecting to schools, parks, transit, and commercial areas. Sidewalks within neighborhoods provide a separated and comfortable place for people to walk recreationally, and to connect to nearby routes and destinations. Facility Type Miles Existing New Total Sidewalk 85.0 49.0 122.0 Shared-use path 18.8 9.0 27.8 Total Pedestrian Network 96.3 57.6 149.8 Shared-use paths around Bredesen Park connect pedestrians to points of interest. 61Recommendations Recommended Pedestrian Network Existing sidewalks Existing park trail Existing Neighboring Network Planned Neighborhood Network Primary Sidewalk Addition New shared-use path Upgrade existing sidewalk to shared-use path Secondary Sidewalk Addition Existing Facilities Recommended Facilities 62 100 100 62 169 169 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 62 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Facility Type Street Crossings • Reduce unsafe crossing behavior by providing safe, marked opportunities for people walking or biking to cross the street at least every half-mile along minor arterials, and every quarter-mile in neighborhoods and adjacent to commercial or retail development, schools, parks, and along transit routes. • Install ADA-compliant curb ramps at all marked and unmarked crosswalks. • Establish guidelines for use of raised crosswalks and median refuge areas for crossing areas. • Increase installation of curb extensions where possible, including neighborhoods and where on-street parking is permitted. • Design intersections with the minimum allowable turning radii to slow parallel to crosswalks and perpendicular to curb, and to shorten overall crossing distance. • Design channelized turn lanes and median refuges with attention to biking and walking movements. • Avoid multiple turning lanes when possible. • Implement advanced stop bars to deter motorists from encroaching into crosswalks when stopped. 63Recommendations Facility Type Sidewalk furnishings • Encourage street trees, vegetative buffers, and street furnishings to control stormwater and provide shade. • Accommodate necessary utility infrastructure. • Allow for facilities that enhance the pedestrian environment including • Accommodate commercial activities that invite walking and add activity and interest to the area. Pedestrian crossing signals • Continue updating pedestrian crossing signals to countdowns until all units have been converted. • Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFB), Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB or HAWK), and others. • Consider implementation of Leading Pedestrian Intervals. • Ensure that clearance intervals are properly timed. Driveways • Limit the width, number, and location of driveways through consolidation and other means. Requirements for sidewalks in new and existing developments Consider modifying the City Sidewalk Policy to:• • Include goal of providing sidewalks on at least one side of local streets dead-ends that provide cut-throughs or park/trail connections. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 64 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 5.3 Bicycle network recommendations The recommended Edina bicycle network provides a dense and equitably distributed network of on- and off-street bicycle facilities. Expanding shared-use path network Dual-side shared-use paths are recommended along minor arterials to allow for comfortable travel along the city’s most direct corridors. Establishing an on-street network An on-street network including slow neighborhood streets, bike lanes, and buffered bike lanes will provide dedicated connections within neighborhoods and across town. Connecting to places Bicycle connections are recommended along roadways adjacent to schools, parks, commercial areas, higher-density housing, and along transit corridors to facilitate and accommodate bicycle travel within neighborhoods and throughout the city. Facility Type Miles Existing New Total Advisory Bicycle Lane 0.55 0 0 Signed Bicycle Route 7.73 0 0 Bicycle Boulevard 3.41 0 0.73 Green Shared Bicycle Lane 0.35 0 0 Neighborhood slow street 0 7.1 7.1 Bicycle lane 19.08 39.9 40.2 Buffered bicycle lane 0 16.5 16.5 Shared-use path 18.8 9 27.8 Total Bicycle Network 49.92 69.9 92.32 65Recommendations Recommended Bicycle Network Shared-use path/trail (existing) Existing Neighboring Network Planned Neighborhood Network New shared-use path Upgrade existing sidewalk to shared-use path Neighborhood slow street Conventional bike lane Buffered bike lane Recommended Facilities 62 100 100 62 169 169 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 66 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Facility Type Bicycle network design • Draw on latest best practices for full selection of bikeway facilities. Sources include: 2012 AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide, FHWA Separated bike Lane Planning and Design Guide, MnDOT Bikeway Facility Design Manual, and others. Bicycle parking • Establish an ongoing “Request-a-Rack” program. • Develop bicycle parking requirements for new development, and install bicycle parking at existing destinations including commercial and employment centers, recreational areas, schools, and other community destinations where people may arrive by bike. • Work with Metro Transit to provide secure, short- and long-term parking at major transit hubs including Park & Ride lots and planned Southwest LRT stations. • Adopt and follow Hennepin County’s bicycle parking guidelines: http://www.hennepin.us/~/media/hennepinus/residents/transportation/bike/bikeplan/Appendix%20F%20%20Bicycle%20Parking%20GuidelinesFINAL.pdf • More information about bicycle parking is provided in Chapter 4 and in Appendix A. Rest stops • Establish guidelines for installation of rest stop facilities including stations, trash and recycling, and restrooms. 67Recommendations Facility Type Bicycle treatment at intersections and trail crossings • Mark bicycle lanes across right-turn lanes and through intersections by marking them with green paint where appropriate • Install chevrons and dashed lines across intersections where appropriate. • • Establish guidelines for installing medians or raised crosswalks at trail crossings and intersections. • Install bicycle signal detection including loop detectors or camera detection along bikeways when signals are installed or majorly updated. • More information about intersection treatments is included in Appendix A. Lighting of trails and on-road facilities • Establish policies for providing lighting along on- and off-road facilities, and in tunnels and other areas along trails as needed. Facility maintenance • Develop facility maintenance guidelines for ongoing and seasonal maintenance including street cleaning, vegetation maintenance, snow and ice removal, and re-striping. • Develop a snow and ice removal policy on- and off-street bicycle facilities, and publicize “Winter Network” identifying priority routes for snow and ice removal along pedestrian and bicycle facilities. • `More information regarding facility maintenance is provided in Chapter 4. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 68 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 5.4 The new mobility: Transit integration, bikeshare, and mobility hubs The new mobility (also known as “shared-use mobility”) is a term used to describe an approach to transportation that decreases the need for private automobile ownership by providing access to convenient and comfortable transportation options that are shared among users, including public transit, bikeshare, carshare, carpools, taxis and app-based ride-hailing services, shuttles and more. It includes the integration of mobile apps, ridesharing services, and supportive walk / bike / transit networks that offer people new options land use also plays an important role. Edina’s potential for the New Mobility Edina has great potential for capitalizing on these trends and offering a new way for residents and visitors to connect to destinations in and around the city. Edina’s transportation goals include reducing trips by car, reducing congestion, and reducing the need for parking while improving community health, commerce, and the environment. New Mobility approaches can help reduce trips by car to the point where fewer cars are needed overall - for example, helping a three-car household become a two-car household, or helping a two-car household become a one-car household. Tightly focusing shared-use mobility hubs and services and excellent walk / bike access to serve destination-rich neighborhood nodes (places that provide a mix of businesses like a grocery store, gym, coffee shop, restaurant, hair salon, etc.) can help kick-start the New Mobility in Edina while also supporting the development of city (what the 2018 Comprehensive Plan refers to as a “Nodes and Modes” approach). these districts while increasing convenient access to a range of transportation options for people living in those districts and in nearby traditional single-family neighborhoods. 69Recommendations Bikesharing Bikesharing is a resounding success in our region. Nice Ride, the Twin Cities’ bikeshare system, has been in operation since 2010 and has providing service in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. And now is a great time to plan for the future of bikeshare in Edina - bikeshare in the Twin Cities is about to undergo a tremendous change as stationless bikeshare comes into the Twin Cities starting in 2018. Bikes will be interchangeable between the current station-based and the soon-to-be-introduced stationless systems, with stations outside of the urban core being well-suited for providing focused locations where bikes can be found and accessed. The change, which will increase the total number of bikes in the Twin Cities by literally thousands, will prompt an entire rethinking of how bikeshare is provided in the urban center (which will likely be mostly stationless bikes) and in new areas in surrounding communities like Edina (which will be well-suited to host the station-based system to concentrate bicycles near the city’s future mobility hubs). High activity areas such as 50th and France, Grandview, the Southdale area, and major recreational and trail locations (Braemer Park, Bredesen Park, and Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail) will be well-suited for initial deployment of the system. There are two key considerations to keep in mind as the city moves forward toward implementation of bikeshare in Edina: »To maximize convenience for Edina residents and increase opportunity for success of the city’s system, it will be key to make sure that memberships are compatible with the larger regional system, and, »The city’s All Ages and Abilities network must be in place at deployment locations before the system is deployed there as bikeshare works best when it allows for comfortable and casual use by members of the general adult population (the “interested but concerned” population) - this is why trail and park locations might be especially useful locations to start deployment. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 70 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Transit integration Transit is a key component of the New Mobility. Luckily, the to transit, as nearly every transit trip involves a walking trip at the beginning, end, or both - while improving bicycle access to transit stops and stations increases the number of people within transit catchment areas. Integrating walking and biking with transitImproving pedestrian and bicycle connections to transit can play an important role in making these modes part of daily life for more Edina residents. Easy and convenient linkages to transit help increase the potential number of trips made by walking or biking by increasing the number of destinations available, and by alleviating concerns about lengthy trips, riding at night, and adverse weather. Effective linkages to transit allow pedestrians and bicycle riders to reach more distant destinations while increasing transit ridership. Connecting bicycles with transitThere are four main components of bicycle-transit integration: »Allowing bicycles on transit »Offering bicycle parking at transit locations »Improving bikeways to transit »Encouraging usage of bicycle and transit programs Bikes on transitAllowing bikes on transit helps extend the distance that a cyclist may comfortably reach. Metro Transit has greatly strengthened the interconnection between cycling and transit in the Twin Cities region by providing space for bikes on all of its buses and trains. On buses, this takes the from of a pull-down rack on the front of the bus. On the Metro Transit LRT trains, each train car has designated space for several bikes. Supporting public education campaigns to let potential riders know about these options and how to use them is a key way to grow use of these options. Bike parking at transitProviding safe, long-term bicycle parking at transit stations helps reassure bike commuters that their bikes will still be there when they return from work, and will encourage bike commuting to transit. 71Recommendations Typically, a mix of short-term and long-term bicycle parking is provided at transit centers. Bicycling to transitLocal and national surveys consistently show that the biggest barrier to more frequent bicycling is the lack of safe and comfortable routes to destinations. Given that transit centers have not traditionally been viewed as major destinations for cyclists, few safe and convenient bikeways from neighborhoods to transit centers have been established. Such bikeways, along with the other necessary components for convenient bike commuting, are an important part of the solution for attracting additional commuters to transit. Encouraging biking and transitEducation and encouragement campaigns about existing bike and transit facilities is one of the of combing biking and transit (greater radius of reachable distance, convenient connection to driving an automobile) will encourage potential cyclists to combine their trip with transit. Incentive programs which offer transit discounts to people who arrive at a destination by bus or bike can help to increase the number of bicycle and transit users. Programs like MetroTransit’s “Guaranteed Ride Home” for bike riders who ride their bikes to work three times a week or more can also help reduce reluctance to traveling without an automobile. Bicycle “Park and Rides”Many transit agencies in the US have built automobile “Park and Rides” as an alternative (or to supplement) feeder bus service. Recently, growing concerns about congestion, air quality and facility costs have prompted a reexamination of the “Park and Ride” concept - especially when considering that many of the automobile trips to these facilities are less than two miles, which is pollution. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 72 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan to make the pedestrian and bicycle network signage should be appropriately sized and designed on the human scale, provide distances to destinations when possible, and be continuously maintained and updated. should complement each other. A well- users identify the easiest routes to their should begin on the Edina Inner and Outer Loops and expand to connect networks in the long-term. Route destinations should not just include places of interest in Edina, but destinations in neighboring cities and networks as well. pavement markings, maps, and online trip planning tools. Ensuring information is easy ages and abilities will ensure that a wide of walking and biking for more of their trips. to all are: Develop a robust and consistent system including signs and pavement markings to help people navigate the existing network. Update signage as needed signs as a component of all projects. Print and distribute route maps Provide network and route maps that are accessible for all, including people who do not speak English as a primary language and those who may require larger text. Include safety tips, information about different Continue to make GIS data publicly available Publish pedestrian and bicycle related data including planned projects, construction information, pedestrian and bicycle detours, and collision information to keep the public informed, and to allow for development of third party applications. sign types and application can be found in Appendix A. 73Recommendations Maintenance of pedestrian and bicycle facilities includes two key, related activities: »Upkeep and repair of the physical condition of the facilities so they (e.g., repainting crosswalks or patching trail surfaces), and, »Activities to ensure that environmental, climatic, and other factors don’t hinder access to the facilities or to their intended functioning (e.g., removing snow from priority pedestrian corridors). Proactive and effective maintenance of pedestrian and bicycle facilities is a key practice for successful pedestrian and bicycle systems, and a major contributor to the development of safe, comfortable and inviting non-motorized networks that grow walking and biking. Why it’s important Providing an adequate level of maintenance to walking and biking facilities protects the investments made by the city and its partners and helps ensure that they continue to serve the needs of residents and visitors well into the future. User needs People walking, especially people who use mobility devices like walkers and wheelchairs, depend on level, slip-resistant surfaces for their travel. Walking surfaces that are free from unexpected bumps, holes or cracks, ice, or other slippery materials are paramount for people’s safety and comfort. People walking also depend on motorists’ ability to anticipate and respond to their presence when crossing streets. Surfaces that are adequate for people driving can be hazardous for in the pavement or an incorrectly-oriented utility grate can trap a bicycle wheel or trip walkers; wet leaves, ice, and gravel in walkways and bikeways can result in a fall, limit mobility for people using mobility devices, create unfriendly conditions, and reduce system use. Maintenance of travelways (sidewalks, sidepaths, and on-street bike facilities), signs, signals, and pavement markings is important in providing a reliable network for people walking and biking. 5.6 Facility maintenance Edina crews repairing pavement markings near Edina High School. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 74 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan General considerations Maintenance budget Preventive maintenance reduces hazards and future repair costs. Maintenance costs and responsibility for maintenance should be assigned when projects are planned and budgets developed. As with roadways, typical annual maintenance costs for walk / bike facilities range from 3 to 5 percent of infrastructure replacement costs - for example, a $100,000 facility should include a $5,000 annual maintenance budget. Life-cycle cost analysis is recommended to determine the net value of using longer-lasting, higher-quality materials during construction if they reduce yearly maintenance expenditures. Management plans A management plan is a tool to identify maintenance needs and responsible parties. A management plan that includes the maintenance component for a proposed facility should be in place before construction. Additionally, a management plan should include a means for users of the system to report maintenance and related issues and to promptly address them. questions such as frequency of maintenance tasks and which parties or departments are responsible for addressing issues. Edina’s proactive maintenance approach The City of Edina has developed several innovative approaches for prioritizing maintenance of pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Current practices include: • Dedicated resources (from the Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety (PACS) Fund) toward maintenance of non-motorized facilities »New funding has allowed migration to more durable thermoplastic materials for pavement markings (previously, had to repaint about one thousand crosswalks every year, with some locations requiring two or more applications) • Prioritization for a selection of pedestrian and bicycle routes for winter maintenance »Non-motorized facilities are addressed at the same time (not after) motorized routes »are dedicated to sidewalks only • Considerations for the future include: »level of service and resident expectations »How to handle new residential developments or new sidewalks added to the city’s inventory »How to continue to sustainably fund proactive maintenance of non-motorized network 75Recommendations User-initiated maintenance requests Users of Edina’s pedestrian and bicycle hazards, maintenance issues, and opportunities to improve the system. A formal mechanism for receiving requests for maintenance can help focus and prioritize investments, avert deterioration of the city’s infrastructure investments, provide effective management, and reinforce resident-ownership of Edina’s non-motorized network assets. The City of Edina currently uses the “Edina To Go” application for user-initiated maintenance requests. Continuing to use this tool, and developing a supportive public marketing campaign will help increase public awareness and use of the tool. Management plans for pedestrian and with management plans for a city’s other transportation assets. Some of the issues typically addressed include: »Filling potholes »Removing downed or dangerous trees »Responding to vandalism and trespassing »Removing litter »Replacing stolen or damaged signs »Watering and weeding landscaping »Protocols for communication »Coverage of expenses Maintenance request screen print of “Edina To Go” 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 76 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Routine maintenance Street sweeping Loose gravel, sand, leaves, and other debris on the surface of bicycle lanes, paved shoulders, and paved sections of shared use paths should be removed at minimum once per year. It should be noted that as part of its proactive maintenance efforts, Edina currently completes two street sweeping operations per year. Sweeping is an important activity for usability of on-road bicycle infrastructure (bike lanes, separated bike lanes, and others) as debris sweep these materials from the automobile portions of the roadway. This is especially true for bicycle lanes that are located directly adjacent to a curb, where debris collects already. Markings Signs and pavement markings are important features of walkways, bikeways and roadways, and help ensure continued safe and convenient use of these facilities. It is essential that walkway and bikeway signs, striping, and legends be kept in a readable condition. Some recommendations to address these infrastructure elements include: »Regular inspection of walkway and bikeway signs and legends, including an inventory of signs to account for missing or damaged signs; »Prompt replacement of defective or obsolete signs; »Regular inspection of striping, and prompt reapplication as needed. Bike lanes may require annual re-striping if located on higher-volume streets; and »Consider durable cold plastic for skip-striping bike lanes across right turn lanes. Vegetation Vegetation encroaching into and under a sidewalk, shared-use path, or trail crossing can create a nuisance and a hazard for people walking (especially for those with sight or mobility impairments) and biking. To provide long-term control of vegetation, its management should be considered during design and construction of facilities. Vegetation management helps to maintain smooth pavement surface, as well as clear zones, sightlines, and sight corners to promote pedestrian and bicyclist safety. City maintenance staff are generally responsible for vegetation management and should inspect the trail system monthly during the growing season. Regular seasonal maintenance activities should include mowing of turf areas within the trail right of way, annual trimming of vegetation, weed control, raingarden maintenance and sweeping and blowing of vegetation and turf debris from the trail surface and root cutting as needed. causing heaving of sidewalk surfaces, encroachment and maintenance issues) will likely be reported through the user-initiated maintenance request program. 77Recommendations Winter maintenance Snow and ice removal Snow removal is a critical component of pedestrian and bicycle safety. The presence of snow or ice on sidewalks, curb ramps, or bikeways will deter pedestrian and cyclist use of those facilities to a much higher extent than cold temperature alone. Seniors and persons with mobility issues will avoid walking in locations where ice or snow accumulation creates slippery conditions that may cause a fall. Curb ramps that are blocked by ice or snow effectively sever access to pedestrian facilities for wheelchair users and seniors. Additionally, inadequately maintained facilities may force people walking or biking to take a route that is unsafe or inconvenient - e.g., forcing pedestrians and bicyclists into the roadway or motor-vehicle lanes. When the surface of a road is covered by snow, the pavement markings that guide and warn people walking, biking, or driving may people walking and biking can comfortably travel as far to the right as possible. Walking and bicycling generally diminish during the cold winter months as slippery infrastructure and unpleasant weather conditions create barriers for pedestrians and bicyclists. However, continuing infrastructure maintenance can facilitate the convenience of biking and walking as well as provide new opportunities to encourage more people to be outside more often. Pedestrian and bicycle routes currently maintained by the City of Edina. Five snow plow routes, totaling 55 miles, are used to clear sidewalks and trails following snow events. Edina Winter Network Pedestrian and bicycle facilities currently maintained by the city. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 78 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Prioritizing snow clearing operationsA useful approach for maximizing the to identify popular pedestrian and bicycle routes as “primary plowing routes.” The city’s inventory of plowed primary routes should be regularly evaluated to respond to shifts in use patterns and introduction of new facilities. Continuing to work with other partners like Three Rivers Park District to establish year-round maintenance of Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail will help to expand the range of pedestrian and bicycle options available to residents. In addition, continuing work with residents and business owners will ensure sidewalks are clear during winter months. Other Maintenance Considerations Utility Cuts Utility cuts can leave a rough surface for surface when completed. Extra care should be used when cuts are made parallel to the bicycle wheel track. Language directing contractors to observe these practices should be considered for addition to utility permit requirements. Amenities Inspection of pedestrian and bicycle network amenities should take place in the spring and fall to ensure furnishings are properly functioning and are not posing safety hazards. Inspections should include but are not limited to benches, bike racks, litter receptacles, picnic tables, kiosks, site lighting and bollards. Repairs and/or replacements should be made as soon as possible when a Trails can be used to access destinations year-round. Year-round maintenance invites year-round use. 79Recommendations Visible, secure bicycle parking is essential for making bicycling a viable option for transportation purposes. Most people will simply not bike to locations where parking isn’t available. Others will improvise by locking bikes to anything that seems secure. including light posts and railings, and can also cause hazards to people walking. Short-term bicycle parking Short-term parking accommodates visitors, customers, employees, and others who arrive at a destinations with the intention of leaving within a few hours. Standard inverted-U racks, securely anchored and placed near primary entries are recommended. Short-term parking is recommended for Edina’s neighborhood parks, schools, transit stations, employment centers, and commercial areas. All of Edina’s schools should have secure bike parking available for students. Parks and recreational spaces such as Rosland Park, Pamela Park, Lewis Park, etc. that house sporting events. Parks such as Alden Park, Arden Park, Bredesen Park, and Todd Park have bicycle trails available at their parks and should provide bicycle parking. Large commercial centers like Southdale Mall and the Galleria Mall should have ample bicycle parking available for mall visitors and employees. Small commercial centers such as Southdale Square, Edina Crossings, Yorktown Mall, etc. should also have bicycle parking nodes every located every few businesses for both visitors and employees. More information about bicycle parking is available in Appendix A. 5.7 Bicycle parking Long-term bicycle parking Long-term parking accommodates employees, students, residents, commuters, and multi-modal travelers. Long-term parking should be secure, weather-protected, and in a visible and convenient location. Long-term parking may be provided using inverted-U racks in a secure and supervised area, or by bicycle lockers, bike stations, or bike rooms long-term parking should be provided at Placement and function Parking areas should be visible and prominent, located near a building’s main entry, and located clearly and conveniently along a bicycle riders’ natural path to access a site. 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 80 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan EXPANDING BICYCLE PARKING OPTIONS IN EDINACompared to other infrastructure-related improvements, bicycle parking is a relatively quick and inexpensive way to make bicycling easier. There are several steps the city can take to better accommodate bicycle riders’ parking needs: • Develop bicycle parking guidelines for straightforward installation. • Establish a policy for including bicycle parking as part of new development and installing it at existing destinations. • Expand the “Request-a-Rack” program and/or bicycle rack cost-share program to add bicycle parking at local businesses. RESOURCES • Hennepin County Bicycle Parking Guidelines 81Recommendations Considering and implementing a range of policy changes can create a lasting framework for facilitating walking and biking improvements in Edina. Adopt a Transit-Oriented Development Ordinance Commercial, employment, and transit areas are, and will continue to be, important destinations for daily trips in Edina. In anticipation of the METRO Green Line Extension, the city may explore opportunities to adopt Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) policies to help guide future development near planned Green Line stations. Station area planning is currently underway as part of the METRO Green Line Extension planning process. Developing a city wide TOD policy would provide guidance for longterm development near station areas. TOD guidelines provide standards for the development of attractive, compact, walkable, mixed-use centers near transit stations to create live/work/play areas that provide easy access to regional transit connections. An ordinance could regulate building orientation and design, provision of pedestrian and bicycle facilities and parking, and establish measures to accommodate motor vehicles and parking in a way that minimally impedes pedestrian and bicycle measures, provision of separated walking and biking facilities, landscaping, and other strategies to facilitate walking and biking enjoyment, comfort, access, and circulation. 5.8 Policy recommendations 1 Recommendations: Engineering / 6Es Approach / Network and Facilities / Maintenance 82 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 6 Education 83Recommendations Education programs share information about how to access and use existing facilities and amenities, about the walking and biking investments. Education initiatives include network maps, pedestrian and bicycle safety trainings, and educational campaigns, among others. 6.1 Active routes to school (ARTS) in Edina 6.2 Other education campaigns 1 1 Recommendations: Education / 6Es Safety campaigns / Maps / Communications 84 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 6.1 Active Routes to school (ARTS) in Edina The Problem Fewer students walk or bike to school today than in the past. Some along routes, low availability of sidewalks and sidepaths, and changes in school siting methods that result in more students living farther away from school. In 2014, 16% of Edina students live within a 15-minute walk from their school. According to the 2014 Edina Active Routes to School Plan, only 8% of students in Edina reported walking to school and 3% of students reported biking to school. The top concern mentioned in parent surveys was a lack of sidewalks or biking paths around schools. The ARTS Programs In 2014, the City of Edina completed an Active Routes to School (ARTS) plan to improve infrastructure and programming within the city and increase the number of students using Active Transportation to get to school. Improvements and programs were numerous and varied. Many of these improvements in infrastructure and programming have already been implemented with the help of the Public Works Department and the Edina School District. Fewer students walk or bike More parents drive children to school congestion around schools Rising safety concerns Active Routes to School (ARTS) is a positive response to a negative cycle in which fewer students walk or bike to school as a result of land use and transportation patterns. 85Recommendations Infrastructure In 2014, The Active Routes to School plan to neighborhood schools. As of 2017, 1.4 miles of these suggested routes have been constructed. These sidewalks have been implemented along Interlachen Avenue, Valley View Road, Cornelia Drive, and Oaklawn Avenue. Programming short-term (0-2 years) and long-term (3-5 years) programming to help increase the number of students walking and biking to school. Short-term ProgrammingShort term improvements include increasing the functionality and number of bike parking spaces at schools, participating in walking and biking activity days, creating a walking and biking section on the school website, and incorporating walking and biking into school wellness policies and physical education classes. Long-term ProgrammingSome of the long-term goals the City has started incorporating as a result of the ARTS plan include improving school site to better accommodate walking and bicycling, narrowing the school driveways to slow bicycle parking as funds and needs arise, and to implement more Open Streets type initiatives to get the community excited about walking and biking in Edina. Walking and biking to school provides opportunities for students to build physical activity into their day. Walking school buses or bike trains also turn traveling to and from school into social events. 1 Recommendations: Education / 6Es Safety campaigns / Maps / Communications 86 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 6.2 Other education campaigns etc.) along with implementation of programming strategies including education, encouragement, policy changes, and facility maintenance. Education and encouragement programs promote increased walking and biking by educating roadway users on safe interactions, incentivizing walking and biking trips, and spreading awareness and support for non-motorized transportation options. Network maps People won’t use a walking or biking network if they are unaware of its existence, or if they don’t know how it may help them reach their desired destinations. Printing and distributing to promote walking and biking by helping people identify route choices. Network maps can also be used to promote the city’s local businesses and festivals. Map inserts can provide information covering rules of the road, bicycle safety and maintenance, and connecting with mass transit. Another low-cost and potentially helpful tool is integrating web-based trip planner services (like Google Maps or Cyclopath) into the city’s website or events pages. Walking and bicycling route and parking information can also be prioritized when providing directions to city events to encourage more people to arrive on foot or by bike. Media Campaign Edina should partner with other cities and bicycle advocacy groups to develop regional campaigns that encourage a mutual respect among all road users and encourage active transportation for residents, employees, and visitors. The Edina Street Smarts Campaign is a good example of this. Safety education People driving, walking, and biking all contribute to making all modes safer and more effective: one of the leading causes of crashes is the unexpected behavior of at least one of the parties involved. Safety programs for all roadway users have been way of reducing the risk of crashes and injuries while encouraging people to walk or bike more often. It is important to balance targeted safety campaigns like helmet and bike light promotion with comprehensive safety education that addresses the rules of the road and the individual rights of all sidewalk, trail, and roadway users. Safety education approaches are outlined for each of the following user groups: »Children learning the rules of the road; »Teens and adults walking and biking; and »Motorists interacting with people walking and biking. For children Share information on safe walking and bicycling at an early age on to teach important safety skills and reinforce the message that walking and bicycling are enjoyable, useful means of transportation United States schools commonly provide automobile driver education for children 15 or older, children and teens rarely receive formal safety training for walking or riding a bike. In European countries where the mode split for bicycling is much higher, schools typically provide formal training in safe bicycling starting in elementary school. In the Netherlands, children undergo an annual three-week training on bicycling rules and 87Recommendations STRATEGIES FOR EDUCATION PROGRAMMING • Educate the public about walking and bicycling as sustainable modes of transportation that save money, promote healthy living, and reduce • Develop activities and events to overcome barriers to walking and biking. • Support programs to encourage employers to support walking and biking as viable transportation options. • Provide tools for residents and visitors to easily report issues or concerns. • Partner with community organizations and local businesses to promote and participate in education programs. • Work with partners to expand drivers education and coursework about the rights and responsibilities of all road users. maneuvers. Similar training may be provided in Edina, potentially as a partnership between the city and school districts. The city may also include more walking and biking safety instruction in the annual summer Safety Camp. Children are most receptive to new ideas when action-oriented teaching and repetition are combined with rewards and incentives. Rewards and incentives may pedestrian licenses, free or reduced-cost bicycle helmets and accessories, or discount coupons for area bicycle shops. For teens and adults Teens and adults range in bicycling skills and others prefer quieter streets or separated trails. There are adults who ride only a few times a year and those who ride often but primarily for recreation. Each type of rider has their own concerns and philosophy system. Education efforts must recognize this and tailor messages to each group. In addition, it is important to educate teens and new drivers about the rights of bibicycle riders, and how to safely interact with people walking and bicycling while operating a motor vehicle. Highlighting pedestrian and bicycle education in drivers’ education courses, and featuring related questions on license exams reinforce the idea that roadways are shared spaces, and remind new drivers how to safely interact with other roadway users, whether walking, biking, or driving. Courses on winter walking and biking can be offered through Edina Community Education or other community run programming. Events like “Winter Bike to Work Day or a winter bicycle festival can also be implemented to encourage winter biking. For people driving The goal in educating motorists is to foster a broad and general public awareness and respect for people walking and bicycling. All people who drive are also pedestrians, and many already ride a bike at least on occasion. Bicycle route signs and markings are helpful to people biking and driving because they remind people driving that people biking may be present in the roadway. Bus drivers should also go through training programs to ensure that drivers know about laws related to walking and bicycling and understand safe vehicle operation around pedestrians and bicyclists. Metro Transit should continue to train their bus drivers about how to safety 1 Recommendations: Education / 6Es Safety campaigns / Maps / Communications 88 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 7 Encouragement 89Recommendations Encouragement programs inspire more people to try walking or biking through fun and inviting activities including friendly competitions, incentive programs, inclusive group rides, and community-wide events like Open Streets. 5.1 Open streets and community events 5.2 Travel demand management 1 1 Recommendations: Encouragement / 6Es Open Streets / Travel Demand Management 90 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Community-wide walking and biking events Special events offer an opportunity to bring attention to practical, fun, and healthy aspects of walking and riding a bike as tools for transportation, recreation, and health. Because these events are community-wide and of limited duration, people are more open to participating without feeling like they have to commit to making a long-term change in their travel or recreation habits – but sometimes that’s all that is needed to open the door to adopting new travel behaviors over the long term. Edina has offered Open Street events for the past three years. They have taken place in the 50th Street and France Avenue area. Potential events and programs include: »Monthly group rides with the Edina City Council, the Mayor or other local personalities; »Open Streets events that close a road month to once a year and make it a bike and pedestrian only street; »Parks and recreation programs that advocacy groups to sponsor bicycling events and activities, especially on trails and regional bicycling routes; and »Participate in walk/bike weeks. These types of events, including Walk/Bike to Work Week, often include special publicity, route guidance, group events, and pit stops for participants, and provide a fun and inviting opportunity for people to try walking or biking in their community. Becoming designated as a Bicycle Friendly CommunityThe Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) Program is a program to which communities can apply based on their commitment to EducationEncouragementEngineeringEnforcementEvaluation & Planning community like Edina, including recognition, promotion of community amenities, technical assistance, benchmarking, and inspiration for further improvements for cycling. Edina can also partner with local businesses as a part of the Bicycle Friendly Business program. Currently, Minnesota is ranked as the #2 Bike Friendly State in the US, and #1 in the Midwest Region with 5 Bicycle Friendly 7.1 Open Streets and community events Open Streets create fun. interactive community events and encourage more residents to experience the 91Recommendations Rider incentive and TDM programs Increased use of walking and biking can help achieve Transportation Demand Management (TDM) objectives for workplaces and communities while improving community health and supporting local economic development. Several types of incentive programs are in use in communities throughout the United States. Some of the most popular programs include: »Bike Friendly Businesses: bicycle Friendly Business programs show support for bicycling in a community while also marketing participating businesses. Bicycle Friendly Businesses offer discounts to customers who arrive by bicycle. The participating businesses gain exposure through their efforts and create a greater sense of community in their neighborhood. » which give employees who don’t drive the cash equivalent of the parking subsidies provided to drivers. These programs help address parking and congestion issues that sometimes hinder successful commercial areas. These programs help address parking and congestion issues that sometimes hinder successful commercial areas. Other Encouragement Initiatives »Neighborhood Programming: should encourage active transportation through walking and biking kits, coupons to local businesses, educational newsletters, and City events. Programming would encourage Edina residents and employees important destinations without using a car. »Park(ing) Day: event held around the 7.2 Travel demand management world where neighborhood residents, business owners, and local artists collaborate to transform existing on-street parking spaces into little parklets as temporary public space for the day. 1 Recommendations: Encouragement / 6Es Open Streets / Travel Demand Management 92 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 8 Enforcement 93Recommendations Enforcement programs often include participation from safety laws like speed limits, parking regulations, and safe roadway behavior from all users. 8.1 Enforcement and system safety 1 1 Recommendations: Enforcement / 6Es Regulations for Safe Roadway Behaviors 94 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 8.1 Enforcement and system safety People tend to avoid activities that feel dangerous. Providing a network of facilities that not only feel safe, but actually are safe, is essential in promoting and supporting walking and bicycling trips. Safety evaluation A successful pedestrian and bicycle network is safe, comfortable, and convenient to users. Not feeling safe is a common concern among people who are wary of walking, and especially riding a bike, for more of their trips. There are three measures of safety, all of which should be considered when designing facilities and assessing system safety: Actual safety Actual safety can be measured quantitatively by tracking the frequency and severity of collisions involving people walking or biking. What is the actual risk of being involved in a collision as a pedestrian or bicyclist, and how severe will it be? »Track frequency and severity of collisions involving people walking or biking. »Prioritize improvements in areas with high rates of collisions. Perceived safety Also called subjective safety, perceived safety and proximity of passing vehicles. Is it easy to cross the street? Do you have to bike fast »Provide separation between people driving, walking, and biking. »corridors where people walk and bike. »Reduce noise of motor vehicles by using quieter road surfaces. »Enforce speed limits and proper yielding behavior by motorists. »Provide designated pedestrian and bicycle signal phasing at intersections. »Highlight pedestrian and bicycle pathways through intersections with crosswalks, colored paint, lighting, and refuge medians. Social safety Social safety can be tied to public safety issues. Is the route well lit? Does the route feel isolated, or are there “eyes on the street”? Is crime or theft a concern? »Design tunnels so that people can see out of them as they are entered. Avoid blind corners on paths whenever possible. »Install sidepaths that are wide enough to allow users to comfortably pass. Address issues of crime. »Keep facilities clean, and free of litter »Maintain vegetation so that grass, shrubs, and trees do not encroach on walkways or bikeways. »Keep walkways and bikeways well lit at night so that users can easily see obstacles, other people walking and biking, and be easily seen by people driving. Safety measures do not operate in isolation. Addressing one safety issue is likely to is likely to improve both perceived and actual safety, as slower moving drivers are more likely to stop for people walking and 95Recommendations Active speed monitors Active speed monitors are permanent devices to keep drivers aware of speeds and remind them of the need to slow down in school zones. Speed monitors are typically displayed below school speed limit signs, and visually display drivers’ speed in real time as they pass. numbers (311) allow community members staff and local police. Comments can be the most frequent complains. Police may then follow up by providing concentrated enforcement in the area as needed. Progressive ticketing Issuing tickets is the strongest enforcement strategy, and is usually reserved for changing unsafe behaviors that other strategies fail to change. Progressive ticketing is a method of introducing ticketing through a three-stage process: educating, warning, and ticketing. biking, and less likely to cause severe injuries in the case of a collision. The city should consider providing an easy way for people walking and biking in Edina to report incidents or areas of concern, and establish a way of monitoring and addressing Safety enforcement methods A variety of law enforcement methods can help change unsafe behaviors, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to walk and bike in Edina. Regardless of the method used, enforcement methods require consistency and follow-up in order to maintain effectiveness. To measure the effectiveness of an enforcement method, study behaviors before and after efforts. Studies may be as simple as measuring speeds or observing behavior of people driving, walking, and biking. If results are positive, continue with that method of enforcement. If results indicate little improvements in unsafe behavior, another method should be used. Speed trailers Portable speed trailers display drivers’ real-time speeds compared to posted speed limits. Devices may help reduce driver speeds and increase awareness of local speed limits. Speed trailers are most or police cars when drivers surpass the speed limit. Some trailers have the ability counts and speed information, which can be used to identify times when additional enforcement may be needed. In some cases, be needed to stop and/or ticket individuals who are speeding. 1 Recommendations: Enforcement / 6Es Regulations for Safe Roadway Behaviors Students learning safe winter biking techniques for a school activity. 96 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan EducateFirst, community awareness of the problem must be established. Raising awareness of the issue will change some behaviors and will create public support for follow-up enforcement efforts. WarnSecond, warn the public about actions to be signs, and sharing information using social and traditional media. Issuing warnings allows police to contact many more non-compliant motorists compared to writing citations. High frequency of stops also ensures that many other people witness warning stops, prompting them to obey the rules. Give people time to change behaviors before ticketing starts. TicketFinally, after the “warning” time expires, clearly announce when and where ticketing operations will occur. If offenders continue to Ticketing gives the program credibility by establishing police follow-through. Photo Courtesy of OK Solar Photo Courtesy of Keeping Communities Connected Photo Courtesy of Edina Magazine speeds for motorists.Speed Trailers are a temporary way Edina Police Department can issue warnings and citations for speeding motorists. 97Recommendations Speed enforcement in school zones Strict enforcement of speed limits in school zones is one enforcement tool that can improve safety for students and families tolerance’ policy for speeders in established drivers who violate posted school speed limits, are useful approaches. In Minnesota, drivers who violate speed limits ADJUSTING SPEED LIMITSAccording to current Minnesota Statutes, Minnesota cities must, in general, defer to the Minnesota Department of Transportation when setting or adjusting speed limits, even on their own road facilities. Minnesota Statutes, however, also reserve the right for cities to set their own speed limits on their road facilities under the following circumstances, according to Minnesota Statutes § 169.14 and §160.263: • limit to not less than 25 mph on roads that have a designated bicycle lane. • to 25 mph on a “residential roadway.” (A city street or town road whose total length is up to a half-mile). • limits to 30 mph for a city street in an “urban district” (Any segment of a city street or town road that is built up with structures spaced less than 100 feet apart for a minimum distance of a quarter-mile). • to not less than 15 mph, or more than 30 mph below the surrounding speed limit in school zones (A segment of street or highway that abuts school grounds where children have access to the roadway or where a school crossing is in place). 1 Recommendations: Enforcement / 6Es Regulations for Safe Roadway Behaviors “Share the Road” signs increase motorized vehicle drivers’ awareness of bicycle riders on the road and help enforce safe use of the road. 98 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 9 Evaluation 99Recommendations Evaluation helps measure the success of investments at achieving desired outcomes. Evaluation takes place before and after programming and infrastructure improvements to establish a baseline and measure progress overtime. 9.1 Evaluation and performance measures 9.2 Counting Program 9.3 Performance Targets 1 1 Recommendations: Evaluation / 6Es Measuring Progress Toward Goals 100 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Safety and user comfort Pedestrian and bicycle crashes should be tracked. Fewer crashes per year would indicate an improved environment, especially if more people are walking and biking for their daily trips. Data can be obtained from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Recommended performance measures: »Number of pedestrian-vehicle crashes »Severity of pedestrian-vehicle crashes »Number of bicycle-vehicle crashes »Severity of bicycle-vehicle crashes Optional measures: »Pedestrian sense of safety (intercept or general community survey) »Bicyclist sense of safety (intercept or general community survey) »Automobile compliance and awareness in areas with high rates of pedestrian and bicycle use (observation) Facility use Volunteer counts are conducted in many communities in the Twin Cities to track the number of people walking or biking locations. Increasing the number of locations for these counts will expand the current data. An increase in observed walkers or bikers would indicate an improved environment, especially if collisions involving people walking or biking decrease over the same period. Recommended performance measures: »Percent of residents who walk or bike to work »Percent of students who walk or bike to school »Percent of residents who walk or bike to other destinations »Annual pedestrian and bicycle counts Performance measures are instruments that help assess the extent to which progress is being made in implementing a plan. They are a set of goals, trends or targets that are meant to be met at a certain point of time in the future - for example, to double the rate of people walking or biking in Edina within ten years of the adoption of this plan. Targets or trends can also be checked at recurring intervals, or at a closer or farther time in the future. The performance measures recommended the system address four broad categories: »Safety and user comfort »Use of facilities »Facilities and network »Community and municipal awareness and support 9.1 Evaluation and performance measures 101Recommendations Facilities and network A system’s physical facilities and network provide the foundation for increasing travel by foot or bike. Measuring progress in the implementation and development of facilities will help measure success in plan implementation, and provide additional context for understanding potential gains in user safety and facility use that may occur as new facilities are added. Recommended performance measures »Miles of sidewalks and trails »Miles of on-street bicycle facilities »Number of new bicycle parking spaces »Miles of gaps in pedestrian network »Miles of gaps in bicycle network »Percent of planned facilities installed Municipal awareness and support Effective implementation of this plan and the realization of its goals require the participation of government and community partners, and the interest and engagement of the broader community. The performance measures included in this category describe the level to which walking and bicycle interests, attitudes, and practice have permeated Edina’s culture. Performance measures that help evaluate awareness and support include: Recommended performance measures »The City currently has a Living Streets Plan »The City does annual pedestrian and bicycle counts »Pedestrian and bicycle maps and information are available to the public »Events promoting walking and biking (i.e. Open Streets) are held regularly »Police enforce laws that protect people walking and biking »Number of public interest or advocacy clubs or organizations »Active Routes To School (ARTS) programs are active in Edina schools 1 Recommendations: Evaluation / 6Es Measuring Progress Toward Goals 102 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan 9.2 Counting program Pedestrian and bicycle counts show where walking and biking are more popular and display current trends (i.e. peak hour travel versus off-peak hour travel). This information shows how the City can plan and implement infrastructure and programming. Pedestrian and Bicycle counts were conducted at 5 locations across Edina in 2016. The locations were: »Brookside Avenue and 44th Street: 169 Bikes and 191 Pedestrians »Interlachen Boulevard and Blake Road: 106 Bikes and 27 Pedestrians »Wooddale and 54th Street: 129 Bikes and 123 Pedestrians »Valley View Road Roundabout: 44 Bikes and 81 Pedestrians »Valley View Road and Antrim Road: 54 Bikes and 637 Pedestrians At three of the locations, measures were also taken previously in 2014. At the corner of Brookside Avenue and W 44th Street, the number of bikes increased along 44th Street but decreased along Brookside Avenue. At Interlachen Boulevard and Blake Road, the number of bikes increased along Blake road, but decreased on Interlachen. At the intersection of Wooddale Avenue and W 54th Street, The number of bicycles increased along Wooddale but decreased the result of only two data points. More accurate data will come from continued monitoring of these locations. 103Recommendations Locations with existing counts Locations where counts are recommended Pedestrian and Bicycle Count Locations 100 100 169 169 62 62 Count locations 1 Recommendations: Evaluation / 6Es Measuring Progress Toward Goals 104 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Some important things to note regarding pedestrian and bicycle counts are: Data IrregularitySome circumstances make data counts at projects or other factors. If measuring pedestrian and bicycle counts at a certain change of the other count locations and apply to the previous year data for the uncountable location. In the following year, this extrapolated value should be replaced by the average of the two years on either side of the uncountable year. Transparency of extrapolation should be noted. Automated TechnologiesThe City of Edina currently uses manual counts which are relatively inexpensive but are subject to variability distortion due to small sample sizes. This makes yearly comparisons less statistically accurate. Data attained through technology can be supplemented with the manual counts to expand the data available for analysis. Examples of affordable technologies include: infrared sensors, pneumatic tubes, or inductive loops. Rolling AveragesOnce data has been collected for a be applied. A rolling average looks at the three or four year average at a location over time. This helps eliminate yearly spikes and better predict long-term trends. Travel SurveysSurveys given to Edina residents and employees that ask their current walking and biking routes, as well as how often they walk or bike can help supplement the manual and technological count data. 105Recommendations 9.3 Performance targets As Edina continues to implement walking and biking infrastructure and programming, some key indicators should be taken into consideration to measure the City’s success and track progress. While the City already has some of the evaluation measures below in place, this plan recommends a formal annual reporting and analysis be conducted on the data received. Some of the key measures to consider are: Survey data and Local Trip CountsCommunity responses to number of trips by walking and biking for commuting and recreation as well as local city walking and biking counts through both manual and automatic counting. Reported CrashesThe number of crashes that involve pedestrian and bicycles should be recorded. Special attention should be given to severe or fatal crashes. This data can be cross-referenced with participation rates in walking and biking. Although most crashes are not reported, local city crash reports as well as MnDOT data can be used. Bicycle TheftPolice reports of bicycle theft can be indexed and compared to participation rates. Not all thefts are reported, but this data can give a baseline indicator of number of bicycle thefts within Edina. By way of measuring the City’s work, the following outputs could be tracked: Implementation of facilitiesMiles of trails, bike lanes, protected bike lanes, sidewalks, and neighborhood byways can be counted. Implementation of safety signals and improvements should also be noted and compared year to year. Implementation of programsTracking programs that educate or encourage biking should be recorded to show success of plan goals. Enforcement related to walking/biking safety concerns events related to walking and biking safety should be recorded and compared year to year. Such events include: speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, red-light running, bicycle related tickets, and walking-related tickets. 1 Recommendations: Evaluation / 6Es Measuring Progress Toward Goals 106 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 10 Equity 107Recommendations Equity focuses on distributing facility and programming improvements fairly throughout a community to ensure that residents of all neighborhoods and population groups have equal access to high quality facilities and programs. diverse populations, and implementation of infrastructure and programs throughout a community to overcome economic, geographic, social, and physical barriers to walking and biking. 10.1 Increasing equitable access 1 1 Recommendations: Equity / 6Es Ensuring Access for All 108 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Bicycling and walking are on the rise.! Adults are realizing the health and economic generations are choosing more walkable and bikeable transportation options for daily trips. Diverse populations who utilize biking and walking at a high rate, such as youth, low income populations, minorities, the elderly, non-english speaking and those with disabilities have been traditionally overlooked in the transportation planning process and their needs not adequately met. Equity in transportation seeks fairness in accessibility to meet the mobility needs of all community members. A key goal of transportation equity is to foster social and economic opportunities through the provision of equal levels of access to affordable and dependable transportation options based on the needs of the populations are traditionally underserved. The pedestrian and bicycle network recommendations in this plan aims to develop well-connected bicycle and pedestrian networks that serve all areas of the City, including areas that have a high density of historically underserved populations and relatively low levels of existing facilities. The pedestrian and bicycle recommendations serve to achieve equity in two ways: »By bringing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to populations with limited transportation choices, and by »Distributing this infrastructure equitably throughout the city. Population equity A more comprehensive and accessible bicycle network can increase mobility for allpopulations. Network routes should be designed to accommodate ages 8 to 80. The southeast quadrant of Edina contains a larger proportion of elderly residents than other areas of the city and should ensure safe and comfortable access. Geographic equity The pedestrian and bicycle network should provide equitable coverage throughout the City, allowing residents in all areas of the City to have convenient access to the networks. Also, the bicycle network should be designed to distribute high quality facilities across the city so residents can reach all destinations. Equity in ARTS PlanningWhen planning and implementing ARTS programming, it is important to design events and activities that are inclusive of students of all backgrounds and abilities. participation and suggests creative outreach, implementation to address language barriers, students with disabilities, personal safety concerns, and barriers related to school distance. See Appendix A for additional detail on equity in ARTS Planning. 10.1 Increasing equitable access 109Recommendations 1 Recommendations: Equity / 6Es Ensuring Access for All 110 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Chapter 11 Implementation 111Implementation 11.1 General approaches to implementation11.2 Network implementation and prioritization11.3 Program Implementation 112 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan »recommendations through additional engineering and land use analysis, as well as coordination with the local community. »Funding support for implementation of this plan’s recommendations from multiple sources. The city should work closely with Hennepin County regarding implementation of facilities along county roadways. When adopted, the Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan will become part of the city’s existing Comprehensive Plan, which guides planning work through the year 2030. A productive approach for implementing infrastructure and programming recommendations during that time period should include: »The development of initial concepts for pedestrian and bicycle network improvements based on recommendations from this plan, guidance from Edina staff and community, a review of existing conditions, and an analysis of gaps and opportunity corridors. »A “test-run” of new projects by installing temporary pilot/pop-up versions of proposed changes. Pilot projects provide opportunities to measure impacts and gather comments from community members before investing in a permanent infrastructure improvement. 11.1 General approaches to implementation 113Implementation »Treatments that require special consideration and careful design include raised crosswalks, channelized turn lane improvements, neighborhood slow islands. »Pursue additional funding to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of pedestrian and bicycle improvements on a regular, ongoing basis. »Act on opportunities to include pedestrian and bicycle improvements as part of development and redevelopment projects, or through spot improvements. Implementing off-street recommendations Providing a continuous network of sidewalks and trails is key for supporting safe and comfortable walking trips. The following improvements will help to increase the safety and comfort of the existing network, and should be integrated into corridor projects to increase pedestrian comfort and accessibility: »Upgrading pedestrian signals to include countdown timers, Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS), and revising timing to provide more time for pedestrians to cross. »Upgrading curb ramps to ADA standards. »Installing pedestrian-scaled street lighting along sidewalks and trails. »Providing pedestrian refuges through Pedestrian and bicycle improvements are often implemented as part of larger streetscape and roadway improvements. For phasing recommendations for network implementation. Regardless, identifying priority areas and projects can be helpful in moving implementation forward fairly and effectively. As much as possible, consider the following when selecting, designing, and implementing infrastructure recommendations: »Coordinate pedestrian and bicycle improvements with scheduled road construction and repairs to avoid of opportunities for simultaneous improvements. »Street resurfacing, restriping, and streetscape projects provide opportunities to stripe on-street bicycle facilities or improve off-street sidewalk and trail connections at minimal costs. 11.2 Network implementation and prioritization 114 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Implementing on-street recommendations Space for accommodating on-street bicycle facilities may be created within existing right-of-way by using one or more of the following methods: »Narrowing the width of existing travel and parking lanes: »11 ft maximum recommended travel lane width Adhere to minimum allowable width of 12 ft for state aid roadways with posted speed limits over 40 mph. »8 ft maximum recommended parking lane width »Reduce the number of travel lanes: »On streets with four or more lanes, low to moderate through volumes (20,000 ADT and below), and high left-turn volumes, the two center-most lanes may be converted into a single dual-left-turn lane, improving ease and safety of left-turns, and freeing up space for on-street bicycle facilities. This conversion is often referred to as a road diet or safety conversion. »Removing or consolidating on-street parking where present. »Designate existing shoulders or excess roadway space for bicycle use. »Recommend against shared parking/bike lanes, as they provide inconsistent and unpredictable conditions for both bicycle riders and motorists - bicycle riders may pass parked vehicles. Trip Generation Analysis and Priority Improvements A trip generation model was used to help identify areas with higher potential to generate pedestrian and bicycle trips. By combining this information with infrastructure recommendations from the plan, as well as with existing conditions and guidance from city staff, a list of priority corridor and intersection improvements was developed. Figure 5.3 shows the location of these priority corridor and intersection improvements (for both walking and biking), as well as the trip generation potential of parcels throughout the city. Tables 5.2 and 5.3 provide additional details about the location and extent of these priority corridor and priority intersection improvements. Weight Uses High - 5 Commercial/retail, schools, neighborhood parks, multi-family housing, future LRT stations. Medium - 3 stops Low - 1 Industrial, single-family residential 115Implementation Pedestrian Network and Trip Generation Potential Data source: City of Edina High Medium Low Trip Generation Potential 62 100 100 62 169 169 Existing sidewalks Existing park trail Existing Neighboring Network Planned Neighborhood Network Primary Sidewalk Addition New shared-use path Upgrade existing sidewalk to shared-use path Secondary Sidewalk Addition Existing Facilities Recommended Facilities 116 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Bike Network and Trip Generation Potential High Medium Low Trip Generation Potential 62 100 100 62 169 169 Shared-use path/trail (existing) Existing Neighboring Network Planned Neighborhood Network New shared-use path Upgrade existing sidewalk to shared-use path Neighborhood slow street Conventional bike lane Buffered bike lane Recommended Facilities 117Implementation Priority Recommendations High Medium Low Trip Generation Potential Priority corridor Priority ARTS Route Priority intersection Recommended Facilities recommendations 1 2 3 5 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 62 100 100 62 169 169 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 Existing sidewalks Existing park trail Existing Neighboring Network Planned Neighborhood Network Existing Facilities 118 City of Edina Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan ID Priority Corridor From To Type 1 Interlachen Blvd Maloney Ave Mirror Lake Dr.Shared Use Path 2 Vernon Ave S Dale Dr.Ayrshire Blvd Buffered Bike Lane 3 Normandale Rd.Benton Ave.South View Ln.Bike Lane 4 W 58th St.Concord Ave.France Ave.Bike Lane 5 France Ave.W 62nd St.W 65th St.Shared Use Path 6 France Ave.Parklawn Ave.Minnesota Dr.Buffered Bike Lane 7 W 78th St.Bush Lake Rd.Lochmere Terrace Bike Lane ID Intersection Recommended Improvements 1 Interlachen and Vernon Implement best practices and recommendations outlined in the Infrastructure Toolkit (Appendix A) for intersections and crossings. Consider:• Reduce turning radii where practical • Install high visibility crosswalks and forward stop bars. • Install refuge medians that extend beyond crosswalks and into intersections • Provide countdown timers and extend crossing time as needed. • Consider leading intervals for people walking or biking. • Install bicycle signal detection (loop or camera detection) or bicycle push buttons at intersections along designated bicycle routes. • Reduce the width or number of motor vehicles travel and turn lanes as possible. • Install ADA compliant curb ramps and signals. • Modify channelized right turn lanes to prioritize safety and comfort of people walking or biking. 2 Blake and Interlachen 3 Gleason and Vernon 4 France and Highway Hwy 62 5 Valley View and Hwy 62 6 France and 69th 7 France and 70th 8 Hazelton and York 9 France and 76th 10 70th and Hwy 100 11 78th and Cahill 12 Valley View and Hwy 169 ID ARTS Corridor From To Type 1 Olinger Blvd.Vernon Ave.Tracy Ave.Sidewalk 2 Tracy Ave.Valley View Rd.Valley Lane Sidewalk 3 Valley View Rd.Gleason Rd.Hilary Lane Sidewalk 4 W Shore Drive W 70th St.Hibiscus Ave Sidewalk 5 Kellogg Ave / Wooddale Ave W 70th St.Claremore Dr.Sidewalk 119Implementation When working to implement programs, the City of Edina can: »Provide support to schools for further Active Routes to School planning and programming implementation at the school-, district- and city wide levels; »Leverage partnerships with governmental and nongovernmental agencies, community organizations, and local businesses to support education and encouragement programming; and »Work closely with local police to enforce including community education classes or bike rodeos, and provide a positive example for safe driving and bicycling behavior. The city’s role in implementation of programming initiatives will vary depending on resources and capacity. The city may take the lead, provide support, or work in partnership with other organizations, neighborhood groups or local businesses to initiate and implement a diverse array of programs. Programs implementation should occur in coordination with infrastructure implementation and evolve as needed in the long term to educate all roadway users on how to safely operate in shared spaces including travel-ways and intersections, promote use of new facilities through encouragement programming, and support network safety through enforcement and facility maintenance. 11.3 Program Implementation Minutes Residential Green House Gas Reduction Work Group, Energy & Environment Commission Community Room, Edina City Hall I. Call To Order: January 25, 2018 Community Room at Edina City Hall 7:00pm II. Attendees: Howard Hoffman, Bob Gubrub III. Topics Discussed a. PIE i. What is the status moving forward? b. Parties / Outreach i. Still working across the board, not a ton of traction c. Time commitment and planning is tough d. Need quick plan events i. Shift to bring us to events not people to energy e. Centennial Lakes tabling f. Farmers Market tabling g. Art Fair (do we have enough volunteers) h. Open streets i. Where do we stand on Edina’s energy goals j. Combine with EOWG? k. Talk with Lauren Meets Adjourn Minutes Education and Outreach Working Group Energy & Environment Commission Edina City Hall, Mayor’s Conference Room I. Call To Order: January 4, 2018 at 7:10 pm II. Attendees: Lauren Satterlee, Paul Thompson, Bob Gubrud III. Agenda approved IV. Minutes from last meeting approved unanimously V. Topics Discussed a. Home Energy Fair - i. Review additional responses to exhibitor survey ii. Participant follow-up – Tara to send out scripts for 70 follow-up calls to all active EOWG members. We could also ask when calling: 1. Are you willing to do outreach session in your neighborhood around energy? Would you be willing to share your energy savings? 2. Or if they did the HES, would they be willing to share their experience with 1-2 neighbors or on Next Door? a. Ask Tara about possible follow-up article on the 70 pledges and possible door-knocking around Earth Day, data results from Fair. i. This might be possible, but we would need to coordinate very soon. b. Ask Tara for total pledges from Film Series. i. Tara said it’s difficult to pinpoint the impetus of sign-ups, but she will have the year-end stats to share in early February. c. Ask Tara how we can support her goals/ actions. 3. Could ask if have attended previous Edina Environmental Forums? 4. Want to ask them to help invite friends to next year’s event, or to volunteer next year? If so, ask them about skillsets. b. Review EEC 2018 Work Plan (attached), and pick top two events (up to two) the EOWG prefers to host this year (for example, one could be in partnership with another Work Group and one could include distribution of WindSource pinwheels again at 4th of July parade) i. Bob and Chuck will talk with Residential Work Group about potentially collaborating on door-knocking and/or house parties around Earth Day. 1. Pair with publicity of some kind. 2. Tara suggested she has 2 boxes of door hangers that could be given away at door-knocking and/or 4th of July parade. ii. Ask Tara again for stats on WindSource & HES and any spikes related to 4th of July Parade and Home Energy Fair. Tara said it’s difficult to pinpoint the impetus of sign-ups. Tara reported at Jan meeting: 67 HES visits in Q4, fair to say that Fair affected that. Said phone has been ringing with residents who requested an HES visit, eager to schedule 1 of the 160 discounted HES visits, so high demand. iii. Ask Tara for copy of info packet provided to guests at the Home Energy Parties. iv. Paul will ask Edina Theatre about showing Chasing Snow. Available now but release is Feb 24 at the Birkebeiner. Could screen in March, though consider the popular movies screening before and after the Oscars on March 4 and aim for later March. 1. Tara suggested pairing it with another interesting draw/ activity to get people to attend, such as having animals there from the zoo to pet & learn about. v. Tara suggested gathering a few days before the 4th of July Parade to assemble pinwheels all at once at City Hall before the parade rather than spreading assembly out months in advance. vi. Tara suggested considering hosting another Fair in Spring 2019 around Earth Day. vii. Could table at summer movie(s) at Centennial Lakes and/or Farmers’ Market. List of movies schedule for summer 2018: 1. June 7: A wrinkle in time 2. June 14: The Zookeepers Wife 3. June 21: Lego-Ninjago Movie 4. June 28: Swing Away 5. July 5: Wonder 6. July 12: Leap 7. July 19: Justice League 8. July 26: Lala Land 9. Aug. 2: Queen of Katwe 10. Aug. 9: Coco 11. Aug. 16: Collateral Beauty 12. Aug. 23: Wonder Woman 13. Aug. 30: The War with Grandpa c. Jeff Mandel, book Climate of Hope: “stories from government, business, and advocacy, ...provides a road map for tackling the most complicated challenge the world has ever faced.” VI. Adjournment: 8:25pm VII. Next Meeting: February 1, 2018