Approximately
7000 new residents are expected in the coming years
as this area redevelops, Claire writes. There are
existing trails at both the east and west ends of
the road, as well as a north-south trail connection
midway, utilizing both abandoned and active rail
corridors. "The avenue is an okay connection
for riding along at present, but there are incomplete
sidewalks and it's not particularly attractive,"
says Claire.
Claire
describes the resulting design as a unique treatment
for the entire road right-of-way that prioritizes
active transportation, while maintaining and managing
vehicular access along the avenue. The four lanes
of a predominantly industrial roadway will be reduced
to two narrow travel lanes, the on-street parking
removed, and distinct bikeways and wide sidewalks
constructed on both sides of the avenue. "One
facility to roll; one facility to stroll!"
is how Claire puts it.
Claire
is currently preparing for the formal presentation
of the preliminary design to City Council, to secure
the $CDN 30 million funding ultimately required
for the entire road reconstruction and enhancement
(which will include contributions from adjacent
developers). "Support from the City's Senior
Management Team has been very positive and funding
is already in place to proceed to detailed design
- yippee!"
When
she's not cycling (or doing cycle-related volunteering),
Claire does jazz & modern dance classes, volunteers
for Hostelling International, subscribes to the
Edmonton Opera, makes (and eats!) vegetarian cuisine,
and travels. "I'm taking a visit to my homeland,
Australia, for most of August, encompassing many
of these activities as I dance, sing and eat my
way around!"
This
will be Claire's third Pro Walk/Pro Bike conference;
she attended the previous two in Saint Paul (2002)
and Victoria (2004).
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