MCHWB Vice Chair Summary of Recommendations - March 9, 2022Edits as of October 12, 2022 MCHWB meeting
Topic-Specific Summary of the MCHWB March 9, 2022 Meeting Topic: Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity Plan for Atlantic Beach,
Florida Presenters: Matt Fall, COJ Bike Pedestrian Coordinator; Colin Moore (City of Neptune Beach Grant and Resiliency Coordinator); Amanda Askew (City of Atlantic Beach, Director of Planning and Community Development) Theme of Presentation: Improving connectivity by providing a safe environment for pedestrians and bicyclists is a top priority for the City of Atlantic Beach, Florida. Takeaways (a few):
1. Presentation on bike safety (COJ): Two of the obstacles hindering more bike-friendly communities: Lack of appropriate pathways and
lack of funding. Jacksonville is the 10th most dangerous place for bicycling in the USA.
2. The East Coast Greenway is a 3000-mile vision from Main to the Florida Keys. It will connect existing trails. 3. A section of the East Coast Greenway, along with a road diet (lane reduction) through AB, is planned, in coordination with FDOT and the Transportation Planning Organization (TPO). 4. The COAB Connectivity Plan seeks safe opportunities for biking and pedestrian mobility. “Given the abundance of recreational opportunities within the city, it is important to provide safe and convenient access to these amenities.” Recommendations: 1. Explore the use of the JEA utility corridor (that does not
encroach on NFL Land Trust easement or residential property) in the marsh area (off Atlantic Blvd) for bike and pedestrian use.
[Michael Hosto] 2. Focus on what is doable in COAB. Some of the data might not fit COAB. We are a cul-de-sac community with escalating traffic. [Michael Lanier] 3. Prioritize connectivity projects in an equitable way, consider an established bike route, and, in the short term explore a Selva Marina walking path (northern end of Selva Marina Drive between 20th and Saturiba Drive). [Kyle Brady] 4. Consider uniform speed limits throughout COAB. [Jim Belich]
5. As the numbers and types of recreational vehicles that are capable of exceeding 15 miles/hour (like electric bikes, boards,
motorcycles, and golf carts) escalate, the COAB Commission needs to continue exploring possible legislative action that addresses what is safe on our streets/sidewalks. [Michael Lanier; edit suggestions from numerous Council members] 6. Explore with the FDOT the option of restricting where southbound Sherry Drive intersects Atlantic Blvd. to a
right-hand turn lane only. Further, it is recommended studies be conducted on other high-risk intersections.
[Jessica Ring] 7. Create a more streamlined procedure for citizens to report high-risk intersections. [Jim Belich]
Submitted to the MCHWB on April 13, 2022, Steve Piscitelli, Vice Chair