How does the town decide where to build sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes?

In 2015, the town completed the Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan after over a year of work gathering information. This plan assessed current conditions in the sidewalk, crosswalk, and bike lane network around Bedford, and took in comments from hundreds of residents about the routes they use and which neighborhoods need such amenities. The resulting plan identifies and ranks improvements throughout the town:

https://www.bedfordma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1052/Bicycle-and-Pedestrian-Master-Plan-PDF

The Town is working to complete the network identified in this plan at a rate of a few projects a year. To choose those projects, the Transportation Advisory Committee, Bicycle Advisory Committee, and Department of Public Works collaborate to consider priorities based on the Ped-Bike Plan as well as areas of concern brought to our attention by residents. Other considerations include available funding and areas where other construction creates opportunities to address needs. 

Overall, the Town prioritizes projects that will connect the greatest number of residents to the center of Town and other neighborhoods, with particular focus on providing safe routes for biking and walking to schools. 

Show All Answers

1. What is the Transportation Advisory Committee?
2. When and where does the Transportation Advisory Committee meet?
3. How can residents provide input to the Transportation Advisory Committee?
4. How does someone join the Transportation Advisory Committee?
5. How does the town decide where to build sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes?
6. Where are the next sidewalks planned for construction?
7. How are these improvements funded?
8. How long does it take to construct a new sidewalk?
9. How can I get my street added to the list for these kinds of improvements?
10. Can I get a crosswalk at a specific location?
11. Can the town add signs or speed bumps to prevent speeding on my street?
12. Can we lower the speed limit on my street?
13. Can anything be done about traffic on Great Road?