The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission is gathering public feedback on how to design a bicycle plan for the region.
The goal is to create a bicycle network that connects communities. It would also have an educational component to improve cyclists' safety. Last night residents gathered to share public input as a first-step to establish a bike plan. Chillicothe resident Thu Truitt says she wants to see a general change in the local culture that’s more embracing of bicycles, like in Chicago:
“Biking to work is encouraged. Companies have showers and locker rooms for you, because that’s what they are encouraging. You don’t get that sense here.”
Truitt also says the region needs better signage that gives cyclists space and identifies routes. People can share ideas by using #BikeConnectHOI on Twitter or submitting comments online. A link to the bike plan website is available by clicking here.
Peoria resident Andy Stow says he wants to see better signage for bike paths:
“There are decent routes that go north, south and go east, west. But if you don’t know them, then if you’re first starting to ride you’ll go down blind alleys, you’ll go down the street and it’ll dead end and you’ll have to backtrack.”
Stow also says roadways like Route 29 need to have better access for cyclists looking to go north of Peoria. A planning committee will be created to review public feedback.