13-Year-Old Boy Killed By Alleged Hit-And-Run Driver - Mother Calls On State To Fix Pedestrian Bridge
This bridge connects the 317 bus stop to the Cherry Hill Mall and has been out of service for 5 years, and now a 13 year old has been killed because of it. NJ DOT's initial response close off the median: that way riders of the 317 will not be able to get to the mall at all.
Had this been a highway bridge instead of a pedestrian bridge there would be no debate, the DOT would immediately find funds to fix the problem.
CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- A mother called on New Jersey officials to fix a pedestrian bridge over a busy highway after an alleged hit-and-run driver killed her 13-year-old son, NBC 10 reported.
A mother calls on New Jersey officials to fix a pedestrian bridge over a busy highway after an alleged hit-and-run driver killed her son.
Letitia Jackson's son, Wayne, was killed as he was trying to cross Route 38 at about 9:30 p.m. on Friday with some friends.
Area residents said there used to be a pedestrian bridge across the roadway, but it was destroyed in December 1999 when a garbage truck ran into it. Only the steps remain.
FeedRoom
Mother Talks About Son's Death
Letitia Jackson said she thought the bridge should have been replaced in 1999.
'I just want something done so my son doesn't die in vain,' she said. 'Five years, that's ridiculous.'
The commissioner of New Jersey's Department Of Transportation told NBC 10 that the state is considering a plan to replace the bridge, but it could take several years.
Investigators said the boy was heading toward the Cherry Hill Mall when a side mirror on a Mercedes struck the teen and knocked him to the ground.
That car stopped, but police say a second vehicle, which authorities don't have a description of, ran over the boy and kept going.
Police were still searching for the driver.
Copyright 2004 by NBC10.com. All rights reserved"
This is the legacy blog of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. It is an archive of posts from 2003 to 2014. Making your ride better since 1972. https://www.bicyclecoalition.org
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Fairmount Park at risk without changes, plan says: "Posted on Tue, Jun. 29, 2004
Fairmount Park at risk without changes, plan says
By Stephan Salisbury
INQUIRER STAFF WRITER
A sweeping plan to reorganize and energize Fairmount Park was to be unveiled later today at a press conference held at the Fairmount Waterworks on the banks of the Schuykill.
The strategic plan, the park's first comprehensive planning document since 1984, was prepared by Leon Younger and PROS, a well-known Indianapolis consulting firm, and has been in the works for 18 months.
The plan states that Fairmount Park with its 9,200 acres and 77 primary parks 'makes Philadelphia unique.'
But 'the grandeur of Fairmount Park is at risk if change does not happen,' the report states bluntly.
Key changes the report recommends include:
- Realigning responsibilities of the park and the Department of Recreation, with the park focusing on 'passive, self-directed recreation' and the department emphasizing programmed activities.
- Focusing the Fairmount Park Commission on policy matters and creating a recreation coordination Board to address delivery of programs and services.
- Beefing up the Fairmount Park Conservancy, an independent nonprofit aimed at raising funds for the park.
- Establishing a revenue division to focus on earned income and effective management.
- Improving the monitoring of contracts and ensuring compliance, particularly with regard to park concession operations and golf.
- Marketing the park, which the report said is seen 'as the premier asset of Philadelphia by its citizens.'
While some of the recommendations can be implemented with little or no cost, many will require extensive funding - money that the park does not have"
Fairmount Park at risk without changes, plan says
By Stephan Salisbury
INQUIRER STAFF WRITER
A sweeping plan to reorganize and energize Fairmount Park was to be unveiled later today at a press conference held at the Fairmount Waterworks on the banks of the Schuykill.
The strategic plan, the park's first comprehensive planning document since 1984, was prepared by Leon Younger and PROS, a well-known Indianapolis consulting firm, and has been in the works for 18 months.
The plan states that Fairmount Park with its 9,200 acres and 77 primary parks 'makes Philadelphia unique.'
But 'the grandeur of Fairmount Park is at risk if change does not happen,' the report states bluntly.
Key changes the report recommends include:
- Realigning responsibilities of the park and the Department of Recreation, with the park focusing on 'passive, self-directed recreation' and the department emphasizing programmed activities.
- Focusing the Fairmount Park Commission on policy matters and creating a recreation coordination Board to address delivery of programs and services.
- Beefing up the Fairmount Park Conservancy, an independent nonprofit aimed at raising funds for the park.
- Establishing a revenue division to focus on earned income and effective management.
- Improving the monitoring of contracts and ensuring compliance, particularly with regard to park concession operations and golf.
- Marketing the park, which the report said is seen 'as the premier asset of Philadelphia by its citizens.'
While some of the recommendations can be implemented with little or no cost, many will require extensive funding - money that the park does not have"
BCGP Secretary Parker Snowe interviewed in Haverford College Newsletter
PARKER SNOWE '79: EASY RIDER
Unlike the majority of Americans, Parker Snowe ’79 smiles each time he notices an increase in the price of gasoline.
He hopes the rising cost of gas will encourage more people to take public transportation or ride a bicycle to work like he does. In fact, it was simple economics that influenced Snowe’s decision to use a bicycle as his primary means of getting around.
“When I was a student, I did not have enough money for a car,” explains Snowe. “Once my car died, I realized that riding the bicycle was saving me money because I didn’t have to worry about car maintenance and repair expenses. Riding a bike is much cheaper per mile than operating a car.”
In 1985, Snowe started riding his bike to classes while attending graduate school at George Washington University. He continued to bike to work in Washington, D.C. from his residence in Takoma Park, Md. The ride was about ten to twelve miles each way.
Every day, Snowe now bikes twelve miles each way to work at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania from his home in Media. As the associate director of international programs, he leads study tours and coordinates all exchange programs for the school. He carefully planned out his route to work, taking back roads friendlier to cyclists. He even stops halfway at a café he passes for breakfast.
During breakfast, Snowe can safely leave his bike outside or, with a few quick adjustments, fold it up and carry it inside with him. Because he has a special bike that can fold and collapse into a smaller unit, it can also be carried onto the train to come home during rush hour. Snowe said he does not have a problem spending money to purchase nice biking equipment because he has saved so much from not having a second car in his household.
In addition to saving money, Snowe chooses to ride his bike to work as his daily exercise and his way of preserving the environment.
“I try to drive a car as little as possible and not contribute to air pollution,” says Snowe.
Snowe is also a past president of The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. The coalition strives to educate the community about bicycles as an economical, environmentally friendly and healthy form of transportation. He now serves on the Board of Directors and helps to organize a “bike to work day” each year.
“I’m a bit of a zealot to convince people to let go of their car,” remarks Snowe. “They’ll be happy and healthy by the time they get to work. In fact, it’s usually the best part of the day and it’s sad in a way that it’s over before you even get [there].”
Even vacations include bicycling for Snowe. He has taken bicycle tours with his family in places like Belgium and Holland. After his daughter Megan graduates from high school this year, he will bicycle with her from Vienna to Prague.
Snowe admits it is more practical to ride a bike to the train and then take the train to work and notes there are many people who bike to work in the city.
“When it comes to biking in from the suburbs, I’m pretty much the lone one,” he explains. And, that’s just fine with him.
PARKER SNOWE '79: EASY RIDER
Unlike the majority of Americans, Parker Snowe ’79 smiles each time he notices an increase in the price of gasoline.
He hopes the rising cost of gas will encourage more people to take public transportation or ride a bicycle to work like he does. In fact, it was simple economics that influenced Snowe’s decision to use a bicycle as his primary means of getting around.
“When I was a student, I did not have enough money for a car,” explains Snowe. “Once my car died, I realized that riding the bicycle was saving me money because I didn’t have to worry about car maintenance and repair expenses. Riding a bike is much cheaper per mile than operating a car.”
In 1985, Snowe started riding his bike to classes while attending graduate school at George Washington University. He continued to bike to work in Washington, D.C. from his residence in Takoma Park, Md. The ride was about ten to twelve miles each way.
Every day, Snowe now bikes twelve miles each way to work at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania from his home in Media. As the associate director of international programs, he leads study tours and coordinates all exchange programs for the school. He carefully planned out his route to work, taking back roads friendlier to cyclists. He even stops halfway at a café he passes for breakfast.
During breakfast, Snowe can safely leave his bike outside or, with a few quick adjustments, fold it up and carry it inside with him. Because he has a special bike that can fold and collapse into a smaller unit, it can also be carried onto the train to come home during rush hour. Snowe said he does not have a problem spending money to purchase nice biking equipment because he has saved so much from not having a second car in his household.
In addition to saving money, Snowe chooses to ride his bike to work as his daily exercise and his way of preserving the environment.
“I try to drive a car as little as possible and not contribute to air pollution,” says Snowe.
Snowe is also a past president of The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia. The coalition strives to educate the community about bicycles as an economical, environmentally friendly and healthy form of transportation. He now serves on the Board of Directors and helps to organize a “bike to work day” each year.
“I’m a bit of a zealot to convince people to let go of their car,” remarks Snowe. “They’ll be happy and healthy by the time they get to work. In fact, it’s usually the best part of the day and it’s sad in a way that it’s over before you even get [there].”
Even vacations include bicycling for Snowe. He has taken bicycle tours with his family in places like Belgium and Holland. After his daughter Megan graduates from high school this year, he will bicycle with her from Vienna to Prague.
Snowe admits it is more practical to ride a bike to the train and then take the train to work and notes there are many people who bike to work in the city.
“When it comes to biking in from the suburbs, I’m pretty much the lone one,” he explains. And, that’s just fine with him.
Sunday, June 27, 2004
A suggested Bike on Bus Ride
Here is a trip that requires a little flexibility, but with SEPTA's Frontier Division now over 60% bike accessible it offers the best chance to take your bike on the bus to experience the Perkiomen Trial.
On a Saturday take your bike on the R6 or route 100 (the easier option) to the Norristown Transportation Center. Then take the 91 to Graterford and ride back to Norristown or Center City on the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails.
The bike path crosses Graterford Road about a 1/4 mile before the prison entrance in an open field. Its a beautiful place to start a bike ride (really).
There are also more flexible options that offer shorter bike rides.
The 93 crosses the Perkiomen Trail near 3rd and Main in Collegeville.
The 99 meets the trail at Lower Perkiomen Park. (Egypt and New Mill Roads just before the 422 interchange)
Note: both the 93 and 99 run hourly 7 days a week. The 91 only runs on Saturdays leaving Norristown at 8:15, 10:15, 12:15 and 2:15
Of course there's no guarantee of a bike rack so you need to keep your options open. Just show up at Norristown and see which bus has a rack. If all else fails you can simply start your ride on the bike path.
Here is a trip that requires a little flexibility, but with SEPTA's Frontier Division now over 60% bike accessible it offers the best chance to take your bike on the bus to experience the Perkiomen Trial.
On a Saturday take your bike on the R6 or route 100 (the easier option) to the Norristown Transportation Center. Then take the 91 to Graterford and ride back to Norristown or Center City on the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails.
The bike path crosses Graterford Road about a 1/4 mile before the prison entrance in an open field. Its a beautiful place to start a bike ride (really).
There are also more flexible options that offer shorter bike rides.
The 93 crosses the Perkiomen Trail near 3rd and Main in Collegeville.
The 99 meets the trail at Lower Perkiomen Park. (Egypt and New Mill Roads just before the 422 interchange)
Note: both the 93 and 99 run hourly 7 days a week. The 91 only runs on Saturdays leaving Norristown at 8:15, 10:15, 12:15 and 2:15
Of course there's no guarantee of a bike rack so you need to keep your options open. Just show up at Norristown and see which bus has a rack. If all else fails you can simply start your ride on the bike path.
Saturday, June 26, 2004
"PennDOT blocks walkway plans:
Ah the best laid plans of mice and men. FHWA Guidelines and the PennDOT statewide bicycle pedestrian plan call for sidewalks. It appears that some within the bureacracy still think its the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.
Blame Congress for not giving the FHWA any power to enforce bicycle pedestrian accommodations in TEA-21 law. Blame PennDOT administration for making the District Bike/Ped coordinators "part time/end of the day" type positions, blame PennDOT's culture for thwarting the efforts of well intentioned planners and engineers who want to do the right thing.
Here is a great example of what I am talking about, check out the roadblocks that PennDOT put up on a worthwhile path project in South Central PA.
By Kate Andrews The Record Herald
WAYNESBORO - A sidewalk along Route 16 that would connect the Waynesboro and Wayne Heights malls faces more delays.
Construction on the Buchanan Trail Pedestrian Walkway, which has been in the works for nearly five years, was scheduled to start this summer but had to be delayed when the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation upped the price tag of the project.
State Sen. Terry Punt said PennDOT inspected the site in December and decided that state regulations require the guardrail be taken out and curbing, gutters and storm drains be installed.
'It drove the cost up an extra $120,000 that I didn't have budgeted for and we don't have the money for,' said Punt, who had secured a $325,000 grant for the project.
PennDOT also charged a $60,000 inspection fee.
'It's frustrating to have a project as important as this be delayed because there was a change in the concept after all the appropriate PennDOT people became involved,' Township Manager Mike Christopher said.
'They changed the project to a city sidewalk instead of a country walkway,' he noted.
Punt called the inspection fee 'ludicrous' and argued that taking out the guardrail will not only be more expensive, but possibly more dangerous.
Punt said he is in talks with PennDOT and is hopeful they can work the situation out. If not, he will seek more funding.
'The critical issue for me is taking down the guardrail,' he said. 'I don't think that is wise, looking at pedestrian safety out there. Without the guide rail, I don't know if we're creating a more unsafe situation.'
The purpose of the sidewalk is to make it safer to walk between the Waynesboro Mall and Welty Road" Punt said he has seen many people walking along the shoulder of Route 16 and is afraid they will be struck by a vehicle.
He added that he once nearly hit a woman with two children and a baby stroller on Beck's Curve.
"I had to swing out into the other lane to avoid hitting them," he said. "There was a car about six seconds away that I avoided hitting head-on."
History
Spearheaded by Washington Township officials, the sidewalk first was proposed in October 1999.
Getting the sidewalk plans in place hasn't been easy.
Township officials wanted the walkway to run along the south side of Route 16, but Renfrew Committee Inc. and Waynesboro officials balked at having the sidewalk run through the park. An agreement was eventually worked out.
It also took Waynesboro Borough Council several months to approve the location of the path, but it eventually agreed with the township on the sidewalk's path in December 2002.
In the intervening year and a half, the sidewalk was designed, and all environmental clearances have been obtained, Christopher said
Ah the best laid plans of mice and men. FHWA Guidelines and the PennDOT statewide bicycle pedestrian plan call for sidewalks. It appears that some within the bureacracy still think its the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.
Blame Congress for not giving the FHWA any power to enforce bicycle pedestrian accommodations in TEA-21 law. Blame PennDOT administration for making the District Bike/Ped coordinators "part time/end of the day" type positions, blame PennDOT's culture for thwarting the efforts of well intentioned planners and engineers who want to do the right thing.
Here is a great example of what I am talking about, check out the roadblocks that PennDOT put up on a worthwhile path project in South Central PA.
By Kate Andrews The Record Herald
WAYNESBORO - A sidewalk along Route 16 that would connect the Waynesboro and Wayne Heights malls faces more delays.
Construction on the Buchanan Trail Pedestrian Walkway, which has been in the works for nearly five years, was scheduled to start this summer but had to be delayed when the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation upped the price tag of the project.
State Sen. Terry Punt said PennDOT inspected the site in December and decided that state regulations require the guardrail be taken out and curbing, gutters and storm drains be installed.
'It drove the cost up an extra $120,000 that I didn't have budgeted for and we don't have the money for,' said Punt, who had secured a $325,000 grant for the project.
PennDOT also charged a $60,000 inspection fee.
'It's frustrating to have a project as important as this be delayed because there was a change in the concept after all the appropriate PennDOT people became involved,' Township Manager Mike Christopher said.
'They changed the project to a city sidewalk instead of a country walkway,' he noted.
Punt called the inspection fee 'ludicrous' and argued that taking out the guardrail will not only be more expensive, but possibly more dangerous.
Punt said he is in talks with PennDOT and is hopeful they can work the situation out. If not, he will seek more funding.
'The critical issue for me is taking down the guardrail,' he said. 'I don't think that is wise, looking at pedestrian safety out there. Without the guide rail, I don't know if we're creating a more unsafe situation.'
The purpose of the sidewalk is to make it safer to walk between the Waynesboro Mall and Welty Road" Punt said he has seen many people walking along the shoulder of Route 16 and is afraid they will be struck by a vehicle.
He added that he once nearly hit a woman with two children and a baby stroller on Beck's Curve.
"I had to swing out into the other lane to avoid hitting them," he said. "There was a car about six seconds away that I avoided hitting head-on."
History
Spearheaded by Washington Township officials, the sidewalk first was proposed in October 1999.
Getting the sidewalk plans in place hasn't been easy.
Township officials wanted the walkway to run along the south side of Route 16, but Renfrew Committee Inc. and Waynesboro officials balked at having the sidewalk run through the park. An agreement was eventually worked out.
It also took Waynesboro Borough Council several months to approve the location of the path, but it eventually agreed with the township on the sidewalk's path in December 2002.
In the intervening year and a half, the sidewalk was designed, and all environmental clearances have been obtained, Christopher said
Friday, June 25, 2004
The Daily Local - Chester County moves forward on Schuylkill River Trail:
Chester County officials plan to hire an engineering firm this summer to begin designing a new segment of the Schuylkill River Trail, which will pass through four northern townships.
Design and construction of the 14.56-mile trail is expected to cost more than $1.3 million. Mikowychok said much of the cost will be covered by state and federal agencies.
The trail will begin at Stowe on the Montgomery/Berks County border, traveling east through Lower and West Pottsgrove and Pottstown. It will then cross over the Schuylkill River, travel through North and East Coventry, East Vincent, Spring City and East Pikeland and end at Cromby near the Phoenixville line.
The trail will be a public-accessible biking and hiking trail for recreational, fitness, tourism and commuting purposes. It will have an asphalt-paved surface with an average maximum width of 12 feet and four-foot grass road shoulders.
"This trail will provide connections to existing trails that are almost staggering to the mind as far as where people can go," Mikowychok said.
A public hearing will be held before construction begins. Mikowychok said many people have supported the project, but he expects that there will be some residents against it.
The Schuylkill River Trail is an 11.5-mile-long multiuse trail running from Philadelphia to Valley Forge National Historical Park.
©Daily Local News 2004
Chester County officials plan to hire an engineering firm this summer to begin designing a new segment of the Schuylkill River Trail, which will pass through four northern townships.
Design and construction of the 14.56-mile trail is expected to cost more than $1.3 million. Mikowychok said much of the cost will be covered by state and federal agencies.
The trail will begin at Stowe on the Montgomery/Berks County border, traveling east through Lower and West Pottsgrove and Pottstown. It will then cross over the Schuylkill River, travel through North and East Coventry, East Vincent, Spring City and East Pikeland and end at Cromby near the Phoenixville line.
The trail will be a public-accessible biking and hiking trail for recreational, fitness, tourism and commuting purposes. It will have an asphalt-paved surface with an average maximum width of 12 feet and four-foot grass road shoulders.
"This trail will provide connections to existing trails that are almost staggering to the mind as far as where people can go," Mikowychok said.
A public hearing will be held before construction begins. Mikowychok said many people have supported the project, but he expects that there will be some residents against it.
The Schuylkill River Trail is an 11.5-mile-long multiuse trail running from Philadelphia to Valley Forge National Historical Park.
©Daily Local News 2004
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Bike Racks showing up on older SEPTA Buses
Reports from Creighton Rabs Frankford Terminal Blog indicate that SEPTA has installed at least 3 of the 655 bike
racks that they will install on the fleet. At Callowhill Depot bus 5058 has a rack and at Allegheny home for the 60 ft Articulated Buses
(they bend in the middle) 7143 and 7152 were sporting the racks as part of their mid life overhaul.
Reports from Creighton Rabs Frankford Terminal Blog indicate that SEPTA has installed at least 3 of the 655 bike
racks that they will install on the fleet. At Callowhill Depot bus 5058 has a rack and at Allegheny home for the 60 ft Articulated Buses
(they bend in the middle) 7143 and 7152 were sporting the racks as part of their mid life overhaul.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Whats up in the General Assembly?
Bill Tracking, yuck. Here is an update of bills related to transportation currenty festering in various committees. There is a lot of non-controversial stuff not listed here, mostly naming freeways and bridges after dead people (and some still alive with political connections).
I've provided links to some of this bills to help you keep track of their progress.
SB 1162
An Act amending Titles 74 (Transportation) and 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for allocation of additional dedicated funding to public transportation systems; creating a service stabilization and state of good repair program; creating a Major Capital Initiative Program; providing for distribution of supplemental funding; further providing for use of funds distributed; providing for establishment of new formulas for public transportation funding in small urbanized areas and rural areas and for community transit; establishing a new funding mechanism for intercity passenger rail services; and providing for public transportation efforts to raise revenue by alternative means, for cooperative procurement and for passing and overtaking streetcars.
HB 2697
An Act amending Titles 74 (Transportation) and 75 (Vehicles) of the
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for allocation of
additional dedicated funding to public transportation systems; creating a
service stabilization and state of good repair program; creating a Major
Capital Initiative Program; providing for distribution of supplemental
funding; further providing for use of funds distributed; providing for
establishment of new formulas for public transportation funding in small
urbanized areas and rural areas and for community transit; establishing a
new funding mechanism for intercity passenger rail services; and providing
for public transportation efforts to raise revenue by alternative means,
for cooperative procurement and for passing and overtaking streetcars.
HB 994
An Act empowering municipalities, counties and public transportation
agencies to work cooperatively to establish Transit Revitalization
Investment Districts (TRID), including partnerships with the National
Railroad Passenger Corporation requiring planning studies, comprehensive
plan and zoning amendments and use of existing statutes and techniques to
achieve transit-oriented development, redevelopment, community
revitalization and enhanced community character through TRID creation;
establishing value capture areas as a means to reserve and use future,
designated incremental tax revenues for public transportation capital
improvements, related site development improvements and maintenance;
promoting the involvement of and partnerships with the private sector in
TRID development and implementation; encouraging public involvement during
TRID planning and implementation; and providing for duties of the
Department of Community and Economic Development.
HB 274
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for operation of motor-driven cycles and motorized pedalcycles; and further providing for operation of snowmobiles and all- terrain vehicles on streets and highways.
SB 1175
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, imposing a moratorium on toll increases by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
SB 1176
An Act amending the act of May 21, 1937 (P.L.774, No.211), referred to as the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Act, further providing for the authority of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to fix and revise tolls.
HB 2357
An Act providing for the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on school zone safety.
HB 1787
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated
Statutes, defining "motorized scooter"; and providing for prohibitions on
operation of motorized scooters.
HB 123
An Act authorizing and directing the Department of Environmental
Protection to implement a zero-emission vehicle program.
And the only mention of bicycles in the legislature (note the sponsors, they like bikes)
Serial No. 281 Sponsored By Representatives BALDWIN, BARRAR, HALUSKA, ARMSTRONG,
BARD, BEBKO-JONES, BELFANTI, BENNINGHOFF, BISHOP, BROWNE, CAPPELLI,
CAUSER, CORRIGAN, COSTA, COY, CREIGHTON, CRUZ, DeWEESE, DONATUCCI,
J. EVANS, FABRIZIO, FEESE, FICHTER, FLEAGLE, FORCIER, FRANKEL, FREEMAN,
GEIST, GINGRICH, GODSHALL, GRUCELA, HARHAI, HASAY, HENNESSEY, HERMAN,
HERSHEY, HESS, HORSEY, JAMES, JOSEPHS, KIRKLAND, LAUGHLIN, LEACH,
LEDERER, LEWIS, MAJOR, MANDERINO, MARKOSEK, MARSICO, McGEEHAN, McGILL,
McILHATTAN, McNAUGHTON, MELIO, R. MILLER, PAYNE, PICKETT, PISTELLA,
ROBERTS, ROHRER, ROSS, RUBLEY, SAINATO, SANTONI, SATHER, SCHRODER,
SHANER, B. SMITH, SOLOBAY, STABACK, STURLA, TANGRETTI, E. Z. TAYLOR,
THOMAS, TIGUE, TRUE, WANSACZ, WATERS, WHEATLEY, WILT, WOJNAROSKI,
YOUNGBLOOD, BAKER, SCAVELLO, GOODMAN, CIVERA, GILLESPIE and DALEY.
A Resolution designating the month of May 2003 as "Bike Month" in
Pennsylvania.
Bill Tracking, yuck. Here is an update of bills related to transportation currenty festering in various committees. There is a lot of non-controversial stuff not listed here, mostly naming freeways and bridges after dead people (and some still alive with political connections).
I've provided links to some of this bills to help you keep track of their progress.
SB 1162
An Act amending Titles 74 (Transportation) and 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for allocation of additional dedicated funding to public transportation systems; creating a service stabilization and state of good repair program; creating a Major Capital Initiative Program; providing for distribution of supplemental funding; further providing for use of funds distributed; providing for establishment of new formulas for public transportation funding in small urbanized areas and rural areas and for community transit; establishing a new funding mechanism for intercity passenger rail services; and providing for public transportation efforts to raise revenue by alternative means, for cooperative procurement and for passing and overtaking streetcars.
HB 2697
An Act amending Titles 74 (Transportation) and 75 (Vehicles) of the
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for allocation of
additional dedicated funding to public transportation systems; creating a
service stabilization and state of good repair program; creating a Major
Capital Initiative Program; providing for distribution of supplemental
funding; further providing for use of funds distributed; providing for
establishment of new formulas for public transportation funding in small
urbanized areas and rural areas and for community transit; establishing a
new funding mechanism for intercity passenger rail services; and providing
for public transportation efforts to raise revenue by alternative means,
for cooperative procurement and for passing and overtaking streetcars.
HB 994
An Act empowering municipalities, counties and public transportation
agencies to work cooperatively to establish Transit Revitalization
Investment Districts (TRID), including partnerships with the National
Railroad Passenger Corporation requiring planning studies, comprehensive
plan and zoning amendments and use of existing statutes and techniques to
achieve transit-oriented development, redevelopment, community
revitalization and enhanced community character through TRID creation;
establishing value capture areas as a means to reserve and use future,
designated incremental tax revenues for public transportation capital
improvements, related site development improvements and maintenance;
promoting the involvement of and partnerships with the private sector in
TRID development and implementation; encouraging public involvement during
TRID planning and implementation; and providing for duties of the
Department of Community and Economic Development.
HB 274
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for operation of motor-driven cycles and motorized pedalcycles; and further providing for operation of snowmobiles and all- terrain vehicles on streets and highways.
SB 1175
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, imposing a moratorium on toll increases by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
SB 1176
An Act amending the act of May 21, 1937 (P.L.774, No.211), referred to as the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Act, further providing for the authority of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to fix and revise tolls.
HB 2357
An Act providing for the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on school zone safety.
HB 1787
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated
Statutes, defining "motorized scooter"; and providing for prohibitions on
operation of motorized scooters.
HB 123
An Act authorizing and directing the Department of Environmental
Protection to implement a zero-emission vehicle program.
And the only mention of bicycles in the legislature (note the sponsors, they like bikes)
Serial No. 281 Sponsored By Representatives BALDWIN, BARRAR, HALUSKA, ARMSTRONG,
BARD, BEBKO-JONES, BELFANTI, BENNINGHOFF, BISHOP, BROWNE, CAPPELLI,
CAUSER, CORRIGAN, COSTA, COY, CREIGHTON, CRUZ, DeWEESE, DONATUCCI,
J. EVANS, FABRIZIO, FEESE, FICHTER, FLEAGLE, FORCIER, FRANKEL, FREEMAN,
GEIST, GINGRICH, GODSHALL, GRUCELA, HARHAI, HASAY, HENNESSEY, HERMAN,
HERSHEY, HESS, HORSEY, JAMES, JOSEPHS, KIRKLAND, LAUGHLIN, LEACH,
LEDERER, LEWIS, MAJOR, MANDERINO, MARKOSEK, MARSICO, McGEEHAN, McGILL,
McILHATTAN, McNAUGHTON, MELIO, R. MILLER, PAYNE, PICKETT, PISTELLA,
ROBERTS, ROHRER, ROSS, RUBLEY, SAINATO, SANTONI, SATHER, SCHRODER,
SHANER, B. SMITH, SOLOBAY, STABACK, STURLA, TANGRETTI, E. Z. TAYLOR,
THOMAS, TIGUE, TRUE, WANSACZ, WATERS, WHEATLEY, WILT, WOJNAROSKI,
YOUNGBLOOD, BAKER, SCAVELLO, GOODMAN, CIVERA, GILLESPIE and DALEY.
A Resolution designating the month of May 2003 as "Bike Month" in
Pennsylvania.
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Rethinking The Manayunk Bridge
The title provides a great link to Jeff Abrahamson's photos of the bridge. The historic bridge and it rail alignment would make a perfect rail trail connection between Lower Merion (Cynwyd Station) and Manayunk. Unfortunately this bridge is not officially abandoned, and there is a proposal to reactivate the line as the 3 Billion Dollar Schuylkill Valley Metro.
The title provides a great link to Jeff Abrahamson's photos of the bridge. The historic bridge and it rail alignment would make a perfect rail trail connection between Lower Merion (Cynwyd Station) and Manayunk. Unfortunately this bridge is not officially abandoned, and there is a proposal to reactivate the line as the 3 Billion Dollar Schuylkill Valley Metro.
Intermodal Trip - Getting to the Delaware Canal by Bus?
Bike Map Cartographer Steve Spindler and I tried out a little known NY commuter bus route (Trans-Bridge Lines) that goes to New Hope via the Doylestown Train Station. This route enables Philadelphia area bicyclists to start or end Delaware Canal Bicycle trips in New Hope, Lambertville or Frenchtown.
If you are interested in the details read on...
We got off the train at Doylestown at 12:40 and found that the 1:25 departing bus was already parked at the stop. The driver opened the bay door for us, the driver told us to buy tickets at the first stop which is the Shell Station at 611 and the 202 bypass.
The one way fare from Doylestown to New Hope was $4. They did not the apply the $7 bike charge and nor did make us sign a damage waiver (The charge and damage waiver for bike carriage is posted on the website).
The bus stop in New Hope is New York Bagel at the Centre Square shopping center just outside town on 202, the Lambertville Bus Stop is at the Exxon Station across from the NJ Transit Bus Shelter and is closer to the trail. NJ TRANSIT route 608 also offers limited bus service to Lambertville.
We rode the canal towpaths on both sides of river the passing thru Titusville NJ and Washington Crossing and returned on the R3 at Yardley. Possibly the first one way canal ride via transit.
Trip Photos
Trans-Bridge with R5 Connections Schedule
Many of the scheduled buses continue or originate in Bethlehem which means you can access the upper section of the Delaware Canal via the Lehigh Canal Towpath.
Bike Map Cartographer Steve Spindler and I tried out a little known NY commuter bus route (Trans-Bridge Lines) that goes to New Hope via the Doylestown Train Station. This route enables Philadelphia area bicyclists to start or end Delaware Canal Bicycle trips in New Hope, Lambertville or Frenchtown.
If you are interested in the details read on...
We got off the train at Doylestown at 12:40 and found that the 1:25 departing bus was already parked at the stop. The driver opened the bay door for us, the driver told us to buy tickets at the first stop which is the Shell Station at 611 and the 202 bypass.
The one way fare from Doylestown to New Hope was $4. They did not the apply the $7 bike charge and nor did make us sign a damage waiver (The charge and damage waiver for bike carriage is posted on the website).
The bus stop in New Hope is New York Bagel at the Centre Square shopping center just outside town on 202, the Lambertville Bus Stop is at the Exxon Station across from the NJ Transit Bus Shelter and is closer to the trail. NJ TRANSIT route 608 also offers limited bus service to Lambertville.
We rode the canal towpaths on both sides of river the passing thru Titusville NJ and Washington Crossing and returned on the R3 at Yardley. Possibly the first one way canal ride via transit.
Trip Photos
Trans-Bridge with R5 Connections Schedule
Many of the scheduled buses continue or originate in Bethlehem which means you can access the upper section of the Delaware Canal via the Lehigh Canal Towpath.
Radio Times on WHYY - Biking in Philadelphia
An excellent interview of NBW's Andy Dyson and Dave Sylvester just completed a 6,600 mile bike ride through Africa in memory of his friend Kevin Bowser who died in the World Trade Center on September 11 2001.
An excellent interview of NBW's Andy Dyson and Dave Sylvester just completed a 6,600 mile bike ride through Africa in memory of his friend Kevin Bowser who died in the World Trade Center on September 11 2001.
Friday, June 18, 2004
News Gleaner: "Riverfront plans run aground
The Army Corps of Engineers have thrown a monkey wrench into plans for the K&T Trail in Northeast Philadelphia.
It was supposed to aid the redevelopment of the Delaware River waterfront. Instead, an Army Corps of Engineers demolition project has threatened the city's development plans. Demanding 3 million dollars from the city or it will be auctioned off to private developers which could destroy plans for the waterfront trail. Congressman Hoeffel is working hard to reverse this decision.
The Army Corps of Engineers have thrown a monkey wrench into plans for the K&T Trail in Northeast Philadelphia.
It was supposed to aid the redevelopment of the Delaware River waterfront. Instead, an Army Corps of Engineers demolition project has threatened the city's development plans. Demanding 3 million dollars from the city or it will be auctioned off to private developers which could destroy plans for the waterfront trail. Congressman Hoeffel is working hard to reverse this decision.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
2004-2005 Bike Lane Paving Schedule
Thanks go to Elizabeth Baldwin and Tom Branigan from the Streets Department for this information. Torresdale Av (6 mi), Ridge Av (4 mi) , and Woodland Ave (3.5 mi) are the longest segments. All of these striping projects are incidental to the city's and PennDOT's resurfacing program.
The completion of this round of bike lanes will bring the total bike lane mileage close to 200.
John Boyle
Bike Lanes-2004
City Contracts
Road --- Segment
Woodland Ave.---39th St to City Limit
Belfield Ave---Old York Rd to Lindley (may not be constructed until ’05)
34th St--- Market St. to Mantua Ave.
40th St --- Haverford to Baltimore (Done!)
Chester Ave--- 43rd St to Woodland Ave
Brous Ave.--- Cottman Ave. to Sandyford Ave.
Old York Road --- Wyoming Ave. to Loudon
Packer Ave.--- Broad St. to 10th St.
Sandyford Ave.--- Roosevelt Blvd. To Ryan Ave.
PaDOT Contracts
Aramingo Ave.--- Orthodox St. to James St.
Ridge Ave --- Walnut Lane to Mont. Co. Line
Torresdale Ave --- Frankford Ave to Linden Ave
The following are included in a contract scheduled to begin in ’04 but the bike lanes may not be constructed until ’05:
5th St. --- Chestnut St. to Spring Garden St.
6th St. --- Walnut St to Spring Garden St.
Bustleton Ave.--- Welsh Rd. to Red Lion Rd
Erie Ave --- Hunting Park Ave. to Broad St.
Thanks go to Elizabeth Baldwin and Tom Branigan from the Streets Department for this information. Torresdale Av (6 mi), Ridge Av (4 mi) , and Woodland Ave (3.5 mi) are the longest segments. All of these striping projects are incidental to the city's and PennDOT's resurfacing program.
The completion of this round of bike lanes will bring the total bike lane mileage close to 200.
John Boyle
Bike Lanes-2004
City Contracts
Road --- Segment
Woodland Ave.---39th St to City Limit
Belfield Ave---Old York Rd to Lindley (may not be constructed until ’05)
34th St--- Market St. to Mantua Ave.
40th St --- Haverford to Baltimore (Done!)
Chester Ave--- 43rd St to Woodland Ave
Brous Ave.--- Cottman Ave. to Sandyford Ave.
Old York Road --- Wyoming Ave. to Loudon
Packer Ave.--- Broad St. to 10th St.
Sandyford Ave.--- Roosevelt Blvd. To Ryan Ave.
PaDOT Contracts
Aramingo Ave.--- Orthodox St. to James St.
Ridge Ave --- Walnut Lane to Mont. Co. Line
Torresdale Ave --- Frankford Ave to Linden Ave
The following are included in a contract scheduled to begin in ’04 but the bike lanes may not be constructed until ’05:
5th St. --- Chestnut St. to Spring Garden St.
6th St. --- Walnut St to Spring Garden St.
Bustleton Ave.--- Welsh Rd. to Red Lion Rd
Erie Ave --- Hunting Park Ave. to Broad St.
Monday, June 14, 2004
5 Days to the Freedom Valley Bike Ride
Remember its Saturday June 19 at 8 am with 3 start points
Lloyd Hall (On Boathouse Row), Rosemont Austin Park (Next to the R5 Rosemont Station) and Reeves Park on Starr St in Downtown Phoenixville.
Remember its Saturday June 19 at 8 am with 3 start points
Lloyd Hall (On Boathouse Row), Rosemont Austin Park (Next to the R5 Rosemont Station) and Reeves Park on Starr St in Downtown Phoenixville.
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Public Meeting for the Scudder Falls Bridge
June 23 Lower Makefield Township Building, 7 to 9 PM 1100 Edgewood Road Yardley
Woody Allen once said that 90% of life is showing up. Cyclists need to show up at these meetings pushing for the importance of a bicycle and pedestrian crossing.
June 23 Lower Makefield Township Building, 7 to 9 PM 1100 Edgewood Road Yardley
Woody Allen once said that 90% of life is showing up. Cyclists need to show up at these meetings pushing for the importance of a bicycle and pedestrian crossing.
Wednesday, June 09, 2004
CAMDEN GREENWAYS BIKE TOUR RESCHEDULED - JUN 12
The Camden Greenways, Inc., Bike Tour that was scheduled for
Saturday, June 5th was rained out. The Bike Tour has been rescheduled
to Saturday, June 12th. Please check the web site for details.
http://camdengreenways.org
Or, call Fred Stine of Delaware RiverKeeper Network at 856.816.8021.
The Camden Greenways, Inc., Bike Tour that was scheduled for
Saturday, June 5th was rained out. The Bike Tour has been rescheduled
to Saturday, June 12th. Please check the web site for details.
http://camdengreenways.org
Or, call Fred Stine of Delaware RiverKeeper Network at 856.816.8021.
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
Radnor Trail Groundbreaking
6/8/04-KING OF PRUSSIA
WHAT: The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will hold a
groundbreaking event to kick off construction of the Radnor Multi-Use Trail. The 19-foot wide trail will consists of a 10-foot wide paved area, six-foot wide cinder path,and a three-foot wide stone shoulder. The trail is located in Radnor Township,Delaware County.
WHEN: Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: The future trail site, adjacent to Gallagher Road in Radnor.
Gallagher Road is located between U.S. Route 30 (Lancaster Avenue) and South Devon Road.
6/8/04-KING OF PRUSSIA
WHAT: The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will hold a
groundbreaking event to kick off construction of the Radnor Multi-Use Trail. The 19-foot wide trail will consists of a 10-foot wide paved area, six-foot wide cinder path,and a three-foot wide stone shoulder. The trail is located in Radnor Township,Delaware County.
WHEN: Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: The future trail site, adjacent to Gallagher Road in Radnor.
Gallagher Road is located between U.S. Route 30 (Lancaster Avenue) and South Devon Road.
Saturday, June 05, 2004
Smarty rains on the Wachovia party
Talk about an event being trumped by a horse. Once again our beloved city has been hypnotized by another sports hero on the brink. Channel 10 devoted nearly a quarter of their newscast to "Smarty Jeones"
This is normally the territory of the Flyers and Eagles. But this year our neighborhood tweens have been standing on the corner coercing people to honk for ... St. Joes? I haven't seen that hysteria for Smarty, but the 500,000 attendees of the Wachovia Bike Race will barely get a mention on the local news.
Talk about an event being trumped by a horse. Once again our beloved city has been hypnotized by another sports hero on the brink. Channel 10 devoted nearly a quarter of their newscast to "Smarty Jeones"
This is normally the territory of the Flyers and Eagles. But this year our neighborhood tweens have been standing on the corner coercing people to honk for ... St. Joes? I haven't seen that hysteria for Smarty, but the 500,000 attendees of the Wachovia Bike Race will barely get a mention on the local news.
Wachovia USPRO Championship Bike Race Philadelphia
Click on the title for a calendar of events today and tomorrow. And remember Neighborhood Bike Works will once again be providing guarded bicycle parking at the event just east of the Art Museum adjacent to the Spring Garden St Tunnel.
Click on the title for a calendar of events today and tomorrow. And remember Neighborhood Bike Works will once again be providing guarded bicycle parking at the event just east of the Art Museum adjacent to the Spring Garden St Tunnel.
Take the Train to the Wall
SEPTA has finally realized that they can do more for the Wachovia Cycling Championships besides diverting buses. On Sunday SEPTA will double service on the R6 line to every half hour between 8am and 4pm.
Since many people ride to the bike race, I hope that next year we can convince SEPTA to put an extra car on these trains to haul more than the 5 bikes allowed on weekends.
SEPTA has finally realized that they can do more for the Wachovia Cycling Championships besides diverting buses. On Sunday SEPTA will double service on the R6 line to every half hour between 8am and 4pm.
Since many people ride to the bike race, I hope that next year we can convince SEPTA to put an extra car on these trains to haul more than the 5 bikes allowed on weekends.
Friday, June 04, 2004
Gypsy Hill Road Bridge Closed
PennDOT today closed a bridge on Gypsy Hill Road in Lower Gwynedd Township to automobile traffic. Unless we here otherwise it should still be accessible to bikes until construction begins.
PennDOT today closed a bridge on Gypsy Hill Road in Lower Gwynedd Township to automobile traffic. Unless we here otherwise it should still be accessible to bikes until construction begins.
Thursday, June 03, 2004
Camden Greenways Bicycle and Hiking Tour
3 bike tours of different lengths and a hike all activities will begin at the Pub Restaurant at the Airport Circle in Pennsauken.
3 bike tours of different lengths and a hike all activities will begin at the Pub Restaurant at the Airport Circle in Pennsauken.
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