WALKABLE BERMUDA RUN

Transcription

1 WALKABLE BERMUDA RUN A PLAN FOR SIDEWALKS, BIKE LANES, AND SHARED USE PATHS Adopted March 2009 Walkable Bermuda Run Page i

2 Town Council John Ferguson, Mayor Ed Coley Al Barnett Ron Hoth Frank Sweeten John Guglielmi Planning Board Janet Smith, Chair John Russell Ken Dohlenman Bette Krause, Alternate Richard Heriot, Vice Chair James Beeson Avalon Potts, Alternate Town Staff Ron Bell, Town Manager Consulting services provided by Rhea Consulting, Inc. Page ii Town of Bermuda Run

3 Table of Contents 1. Why Do We Need A Plan? Purpose and Intent The Plan Elements and Process The Planning Area Growth Trends... 3 Map 1: Town Jurisdiction Complete Streets Pedestrians... 7 Chart 1: Percent of Trip Lengths on Most Recent Day Walked... 8 Chart 2: Primary Purpose of Walking Trips... 9 Chart 3: Facilities Used for Walking Trips Cycling Chart 4: Percent of Trip Lengths on Most Recent Day Bicycled Chart 5: Facilities Used for Bicycling Trips Shared Use Paths and Greenways What Do We Want To Accomplish? Plan Goal Plan Objectives Where Are Facilities Required? The Importance of Place Table 1: Bermuda Run Street Classification Roadway Classifications Town Standards Cross Sections Figure 1: Arterials Shared Use Path Option Figure 2: Arterials Sidewalk and Bike Lane Option Figure 3: Collector Streets in the Town Center Figure 4: Local Streets in the Town Center and Commercial Mixed-Use Areas Figure 5: Collector Streets in Commercial and Residential Mixed-Use Areas Figure 6: Collector Streets in Club Residential Areas Figure 7: Local Streets in Club Residential and Residential Mixed-Use Areas Tabular Summary of Requirements Table 2: Summary of Requirements for New Infrastructure Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Requirements How Will This Plan Be Implemented? Existing Policies Exceptions to Applicability Waivers Developer Installed Facilities Public Installation of Facilities Priority Facilities Facilities Required for Voluntary Annexation Glossary of Terms Appendix A: Planning Board Recommendations for Walkable Projects Walkable Bermuda Run Page iii

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5 1 Why Do We Need A Plan? Vision To provide the citizens of Bermuda Run and its planning jurisdiction with a safe, effective, coordinated and connected alternative transportation network consisting of sidewalks, bicycle lanes, shared use paths, and greenways. 1.1 Purpose and Intent Establishing and maintaining a comprehensive non motorized transportation system, an alternative to the automobile, is important to the health, safety, and livability of Bermuda Run. A well planned system can: Improve the safety of our roadways and streets Improve access for citizens who cannot drive Encourage a more healthy lifestyle Reduce water, air, and noise pollution Improve the aesthetics of roadways by encouraging or requiring the addition of landscaping and medians that improve pedestrian safety and create a better walking environment Reduce the need for parking Foster community by encouraging greater interaction with neighbors and other citizens Reduce dependence on and use of fossil fuel Create a sense of place and community identity The purpose of this plan is to provide a vision for the town s alternative transportation network and to establish guidelines and policies for its development. The specific facility recommendations, as indicated on the plan map, represent a vision or master plan level evaluation of suitability. Prior to proceeding with the installation of any of the recommended facilities indicated on the map, a corridor level assessment to determine existing conditions, rights of way, obstacles and opportunities will need to be completed to fully investigate the appropriateness of the proposed facility. Some modification in location or design may be necessary to accommodate the results of such an assessment. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 1

6 The guidelines for development of specific facility types included within this plan are intended to establish the town s policies for such improvements and to serve as standards for construction. Whenever private development of a portion of the nonmotorized network is required by town ordinance as part of the land development process, these guidelines shall be met. 1.2 The Plan Elements and Process This plan is divided into five parts: 1) Introduction, 2) Background Information, 3) Town Policies, 4) Sidewalk Location Map, and 5) Glossary of Terms. Within these parts there are four main plan elements that form the backbone of the plan. These are the vision, the goal, the objectives, and the policies. The plan addresses four types of transportation facilities: 1) streets, 2) sidewalks, 3) bike lanes, and 4) shared use paths. While design and detail for streets is not included in this plan, how Vision alternative systems function within and intersect streets is included. These four elements are the foundation of Goal Bermuda Run s future transportation network and must, like puzzle pieces, fit together to meet the intent Objectives of this plan and the needs of the citizens. Town Policies This plan was prepared by the Bermuda Run Planning Board with assistance from Rhea Consulting, Inc. It s creation was a deliberative and thought provoking process that began in the summer of 2007 and culminated with its adoption in The Planning Area SHARED USE PATHS BIKE LANES STREETS SIDEWALKS This plan covers the entire planning jurisdiction of the Town of Bermuda Run. This includes all land within the corporate limits as well as the extraterritorial planning jurisdiction as depicted on Map 1. Many of the standards apply to certain areas of town specified by zoning district. For the most up to date reference regarding these districts, please refer to the Official Zoning Map for Bermuda Run. Page 2 Town of Bermuda Run

7 1.4 Growth Trends Incorporated by act of the General Assembly in 1999, Bermuda Run is poised to become one of the fastest growing towns in the Triad. While the area inside the corporate limits is predominately residential, there is a substantial amount of nonresidential development immediately adjacent to the corporate limits, including the area designated as the Town Center. The lack of public sewer capacity in eastern Davie County has limited development in the past, but sewer capacity is expected to increase substantially in the near future. Bermuda Run was founded as a medium density gated golf course community located in a largely low density agricultural area of the county. At the time of its inception there was very little reason for anyone to use non motorized transportation except for recreational purposes, but recent and future growth is expected to change this. More and more destinations are locating within a one half mile radius of established residential areas. The intersection of NC 801 and US 158 has become a center of commercial and office activity. Much of this land has been recently incorporated at the request of the owners, but a significant amount is still in the unincorporated area of the town s jurisdiction. Located between NC 801 and the Yadkin River, the still developing Kinderton Commercial Center is another destination for many residents within the Bermuda Run area. North of I 40 along US 801, the Kinderton Place Retail Center contains the newest grocery store, restaurants and small retail shops. Large undeveloped parcels directly across from this center along NC 801 provide more than sixty acres of prime development property that may be slated for a new medical complex including a hospital and retail center. All of these are and will be important destinations within the community. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 3

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9 Bermuda Run Zoning Districts, May 2009 Walkable Bermuda Run Page 5

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11 1.5 Complete Streets There is a national push toward complete streets. These are streets that accommodate all users: motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Most streets built since World War II have focused almost exclusively on the motorist with little thought given to the cyclist or pedestrian. This has created environments that are generally hostile and dangerous to all forms of non motorized transportation. The rise of the automobile as the primary, if not exclusive, form of travel for most Americans has isolated low income communities, the elderly, the handicapped and the young basically everyone who cannot or does not own or drive a car. It is also cited as one of the primary reasons that the rate of obesity, and all of the diseases associated with it, have increased dramatically in the U.S. even in the last twenty years. The Centers for Disease Control ( reports that obesity rates more than doubled for adults between the survey and a similar survey conducted in 2003 and Perhaps more alarming, the same surveys indicate that obesity rates among children tripled during this same period. As many health conscious Americans have tried to maintain or regain fitness and health in recent years, the lack of good, safe pedestrian and bicycle facilities has become a concern. Even those communities who have yet to acknowledge the health implications of their growth patterns and transportation systems are realizing that traffic congestion in many places is caused by citizens forced to make short trips by automobile because suitable alternative transportation options do not exist. Therefore it is imperative to provide a network of safe, accessible pedestrian and bicycle facilities that are well connected to important community centers. 1.6 Pedestrians In 2002, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Bureau of Transportation Statistics completed the National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors. This US Pedestrian Statistics, ,881 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States a decrease of 13 percent from the 5,584 pedestrians killed in On average, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic crash every 108 minutes and one is injured every eight minutes. There were 64,000 pedestrians injured in traffic crashes. Most fatalities occurred in urban areas (74%), at non intersection locations (80%), in normal weather (89%), and at night (67%). National Center for Statistics and Analysis, Traffic Safety Facts, Walkable Bermuda Run Page 7

12 survey indicated that twenty seven percent of all walking trips were.25 miles or less as indicated on Chart 1. However, the same study showed that the average walking trip is 1.2 miles. Chart 1: Percent of Trip Lengths on Most Recent Day Walked Mean = 1.2 miles 30.0% 26.9% 25.0% 20.0% 19.6% 20.7% 18.0% 15.0% 14.8% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%.25 miles or less miles.51-1 mile miles More than 2 miles NOTE: Estimates are based on total trips taken on most recent day walked. SOURCE: National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). The health benefits of walking are well documented. For example, the Centers for Disease Control reports that among adults with diabetes, those who walked for exercise at least two hours a week lowered their mortality rate from all causes by as much as thirty nine percent! ( While most walking trips are short in length, the benefits of walking are well documented. Creating a walkable community is the first step toward community fitness. / Dan Burden Page 8 Town of Bermuda Run

13 Chart 2: Primary Purpose of Walking Trips 30.0% 27.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 17.3% 15.3% 10.2% 8.8% 12.3% 5.0% 5.1% 4.0% 0.0% exercise or health reasons run personal errands recreation to go home visit a friend or relative commuting to school or work walk the dog other SOURCE: National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). Walking for transportation, such as walking to school, helps to ensure that we meet the Centers for Disease Control s recommended thirty minutes of exercise daily. / Dan Burden Walkable Bermuda Run Page 9

14 Chart 3: Facilities Used for Walking Trips 50.0% 45.0% 40.0% 45.1% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0% 24.8% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 8.4% 8.0% 5.8% 4.9% 3.0% 0.0% sidewalks paved roads shoulders of paved roads unpaved roads bicycle paths/walking paths/trails grass or fields other SOURCE: National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). As development patterns across the country have changed how we move about our communities, walking for transportation has declined significantly. For example, it has been reported that in 1969, forty two percent of children aged 5 15 years walked to school. This figure declined to around sixteen percent in ( org). 1.7 Cycling According to the National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors the average length of a bicycling trip taken on a typical summer day was 3.9 miles; however, as indicated in Chart 4 more than thirty eight percent of all trips were one mile or less in length. The same study indicates that most cyclists use paved roads (Chart 5). Bike lanes along roadways provide a marked location for cyclists who prefer the convenience and safety of road travel. Cycling on sidewalks is not recommended since driveway and street intersections along sidewalks are not designed for bicycle safety and motorists may not see cyclists before it is too late to stop. Page 10 Town of Bermuda Run

15 Chart 4: Percent of Trip Lengths on Most Recent Day Bicycled 45.0% 40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% 38.6% 23.8% 18.5% 11.8% 7.3% 1 mile or less miles miles miles More than 10 miles SOURCE: National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). Chart 5: Facilities Used for Bicycling Trips 60.0% 50.0% 48.1% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 13.6% 13.1% 12.8% 10.0% 5.2% 5.2% 2.1% 0.0% paved roads sidewalks bicycle paths/walking paths/trails shoulders of paved roads bicycle lanes on roads unpaved roads other SOURCE: National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes and Behaviors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). Walkable Bermuda Run Page 11

16 The 2.5 mile Avon/ Catawba Creek Greenway in Gastonia, NC. Rhea Consulting, Inc. 1.8 Shared Use Paths and Greenways Shared use paths provide a safe location for pedestrians, cyclists and personal vehicles for the handicapped. They can accommodate baby strollers, tricycles, skaters, walkers, joggers and other common non motorized users safely. While shared use paths can occur anywhere that it is safe for users, including next to roadways with limited driveway and cross road traffic, greenways are a special kind of shared use path that are located away from roads and development often in areas such as floodways that cannot or should not be used for other purposes. Bermuda Run is located next to the Yadkin River, one of the largest and most significant river systems in the state. While segments of greenway systems along the river have been built or planned for Wilkesboro and Elkin, there are no riverside greenways in the Bermuda Run area. Greenways are planned in Forsyth County that would extend from Lewisville and Clemmons to the river and Tanglewood Park. There is a significant amount of bottom land along the river in Bermuda Run s jurisdiction adjacent to the newly constructed Twin City Youth Soccer Association complex. If this land were developed as a public park, a greenway would be an excellent addition, perhaps providing access to the soccer fields, Kinderton residential, the Club Residential areas of town and, possibly, connection to Forsyth County greenways. Page 12 Town of Bermuda Run

17 2 What Do We Want To Accomplish? 2.1 Plan Goal The goal of this plan is simple and straightforward: Make active transportation within the jurisdiction of Bermuda Run safe, convenient, and fun. We can accomplish this by fulfilling the following objectives: 2.2 Plan Objectives 1. Integrate non motorized transportation into the existing transportation infrastructure. The existing transportation network within Bermuda Run is automobile oriented and connected mainly by US 158 and NC 801. In order for the town to have a well connected network of non motorized transportation facilities, sidewalks, bike lanes and, in some cases, shared use paths will have to be installed along existing roadways and within existing neighborhoods. 2. Provide safe and convenient non motorized connections between destinations in every part of the town s jurisdiction, such as residential, commercial, and recreational areas. Office, retail, and commercial centers, Bermuda Run, Bermuda Run West, Kinderton Residential, and the Twin City Youth Soccer Association are all important existing destinations within Bermuda Run. Future destinations include the Town Center, a major medical complex with additional retail and hospitality businesses near I 40 and NC 801, and a public park along the Yadkin River. In order for Bermuda Run to become a town offering true alternative transportation options for its citizens and visitors, it will have to connect all of these destinations with pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 13

18 3. Require non motorized infrastructure as an integral part of new land development projects. While the town and the state will be responsible for installing certain facilities along existing roadways, new development must be made to extend and connect to planned facilities at the time of occupancy. Non motorized transportation facilities must be treated with the same level of importance as motorized facilities if Bermuda Run is to implement this plan as envisioned. 4. Improve safety and accessibility for all pedestrians with a special concern for the disabled, elderly, children, and low income residents. Ensuring safe and accessible facilities means not only proper design and construction of pathways but care and concern about where these pathways intersect driveways, streets, parking lots, and similar transitional areas. Safe crossings will help to ensure that people will use the facilities and that motorists will proceed with caution in areas where pedestrians and cyclists share the roads. While safety and accessibility is a concern for all pedestrians, the disabled, the elderly, and children need special consideration to insure that facilities are designed to protect them and make them feel safe when walking in Bermuda Run. 5. Continue to support and require pedestrian friendly land use such as mixed use zoning, connectivity and infill. Bermuda Run adopted a Zoning Ordinance that supports alternative transportation by encouraging and allowing mixed use developments designed to complement and frame public spaces. It also prohibits most forms of insular development by requiring street connectivity, and it promotes sensitive and appropriate infill in existing neighborhoods. These aspects of the town s land use program must be supported and maintained to ensure the best environment for the use of alternative transportation systems. 6. Establish a procedure for the town to construct necessary paths and linkages. While much of Bermuda Run s jurisdiction is undeveloped or likely to redevelop within the next twenty years, most of the existing residential areas are not expected to change. The installation of sidewalks and bike lanes in these areas, as well as linkages in existing commercial areas, will be the responsibility of the citizens and the town. Deciding how and when these facilities are constructed will be an important process and is critical to the overall successful implementation of this plan. Annual priorities shall be recommended by the Planning Board as a list of priorities for the Capital Improvements Plan adopted, as funding permits, by Town Council. Page 14 Town of Bermuda Run

19 3 Where Are Facilities Required? 3.1 The Importance of Place An underlying theme of the town s Zoning Ordinance is the establishment of a sense of place for Bermuda Run. While sense of place means different things in different places, in Bermuda Run it means an authentic, unique character that defines our community. A critical component of our sense of place is walkability and interaction with the built environment. How buildings are designed and placed greatly affects our perception of safety and level of interest in moving about without automobiles. However, the town has not developed with walkability or bicycle movement in mind. This needs to change if we are to develop into and remain a cohesive community. Bermuda Run is divided into residential, Residential Mixed Use, Commercial Mixed Use, Town Center, and commercial areas. Each of these environments has different needs related to non motorized transportation. Planning, therefore, must account for and respect these distinct areas. Alternative transportation systems within these areas and connections between them should be continuous, providing a complete network of facilities. In each area, there should also be an attractive street appearance and a strong sense of safety for anyone using a sidewalk, bike lane, or shared path. Our future Town Center will be the heart of our community. Walking in and around Town Center should be an enjoyable experience. There should be a continuous network of wide sidewalks, since pedestrian movement in the Town Center will be almost entirely by sidewalk. Cyclists will share the road with motorized vehicles and use bike lanes whenever possible. The close proximity of established residential areas and other commercial areas dictates that Town Center infrastructure coordinate and complement similar facilities in these areas. Our alternative transportation plan for commercial areas, including Commercial Mixed Use, calls for a mixture of sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and possibly a shared use path. Walking and cycling in and around our residential areas should be equally safe and enjoyable. Moving about in this environment may take the pedestrian from sidewalks to low volume streets, Walkable Bermuda Run Page 15

20 to shared paths and greenways. Cyclists will, in most cases, share the roadway with automobiles. Connectivity to nearby and adjacent residential and commercial areas is critical. While a continuous network of sidewalks, bicycle lanes, shared use paths and greenways is our goal, we realize that the network outlined in this plan will be put into place in phases. Many segments will be installed by developers as they develop or redevelop properties along designated transportation corridors. Other segments within the corporate limits may be installed by the town as funds permit. The priority for town installed segments will be existing residentially developed areas and linkages in existing commercial areas to address gaps in the network. NCDOT may also install facilities as it improves state roads. All facilities outlined by this plan will be publicly owned and maintained by either the town or the state except those within the extraterritorial planning jurisdiction, which may be maintained by either the state, a business or a property owners association, and those along private streets, which shall be maintained by a property owners association. The town will not own or maintain facilities outside its corporate limits. While AASHTO guidelines are cited throughout this plan as the source of design standards for all facilities, NCDOT may have standards that supersede AASHTO guidelines. Where this occurs, NCDOT standards shall prevail. The ultimate location, design, and type of facility are subject to the review and approval of the Town of Bermuda Run regardless of who has responsibility for ownership and maintenance of the facility. Table 1: Bermuda Run Street Classification Arterial Streets Collector Streets Local Streets NC HWY 801 US HWY 158 Bermuda Run Drive Bing Crosby Boulevard Bridge Street Commerce Drive Glen Arbor Drive Gun Club Road Kinderton Boulevard Old Towne Drive Orchard Park Drive Peachtree Lane Riverbend Drive Town Park Drive Yadkin Valley Road All other public streets Page 16 Town of Bermuda Run

21 3.2 Roadway Classifications The standards set forth in the following sections are based upon roadway classifications. For the purposes of this plan, the classifications listed in Table 1 shall be used. 3.3 Town Standards In order to ensure a consistent, coordinated, and interconnected network of nonmotorized transportation facilities in the Town Center, the town hereby adopts the following standards for new facilities in developing areas. Standards for retrofitting sidewalks in existing areas will be determined on a case by case basis Sidewalks 1. Sidewalks shall be installed on both sides of all streets. Collector streets in the Town Center shall have a sidewalk of a minimum of ten feet in width. Sidewalks along local streets in the Town Center and Commercial Mixed Use areas shall be a minimum of six feet in width. Collector streets in the Commercial Mixed Use and Residential Mixed Use districts shall have sidewalks that are a minimum of six feet in width. Sidewalks along collector streets in Club Residential districts shall be a minimum of six feet in width. Sidewalks shall be installed along both sides of all other local streets at a minimum width of six feet. In Open Space areas, streets in planned subdivisions containing new local streets shall meet local street standards for sidewalks. 2. Sidewalks shall be constructed of concrete, except that the town may approve sidewalks constructed of brick or stone paving materials on a case by case basis or when consistent with an adopted town streetscape plan. 3. Sidewalks shall remain clear of obstructions. In the Town Center, sidewalks along collector streets shall maintain an eight foot horizontal throughway at all times. Outside of the throughway, the town may permit sandwich board signs, street furniture, planters, and similar items to be placed on the sidewalk on a caseby case basis whenever, in the town manager s opinion, such items would not pose a threat to the health, safety or general welfare of the public using the sidewalk or adjacent street. Application to place any such items on a public sidewalk shall be made in writing to the town manager prior to placement. 4. Vertical clearance along all sidewalks shall be at least eight feet. 5. All sidewalks shall be constructed to meet AASHTO guidelines and ADA access requirements. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 17

22 3.3.2 Shared use paths 1. A shared use path should be installed by the town along the north side of U.S. 158 and the west side of N.C. 801, south of I 40, at a minimum width of eight feet. No more than eight crossings (driveways or streets) per mile should be permitted where shared use paths are installed. Otherwise, a sidewalk shall be installed on both sides of these arterials at a minimum width of six feet where curb and gutter are installed. Shared use paths may be installed along other streets at a minimum width of eight feet as permitted by the town. 2. Shared use paths shall be paved with asphalt. 3. Vertical clearance along all shared use paths shall be at least ten feet. 4. Use of shared use paths shall be limited to non motorized users, except as noted herein, and may include but are not necessarily limited to: bicyclists, in line skaters, roller skaters, scooters (non motorized only), wheelchair users (both nonmotorized and motorized), four wheel electric golf carts, personal transporters and pedestrians, including walkers, runners, people with baby strollers, people walking dogs, and similar types of users. 5. Unless otherwise designated and approved by the town, all shared use paths shall be designed for two way travel. 6. Where shared use paths run immediately adjacent to US 158, NC 801, or other roadways; a. Driveway cuts across the path shall be limited and shall be clearly marked for both the user of the path and the motorist entering or exiting the driveway. b. Path termini shall direct bicycle traffic to the appropriate side of the street. c. Sight distances applicable to the roadway shall also be applicable to the shared use path. 7. Shared use paths shall meet AASHTO and NCDOT design requirements and be located in a public right of way unless privately owned and maintained. Page 18 Town of Bermuda Run

23 3.3.3 Bike lanes 1. Bikes shall share the road along all local streets and collector streets. New vehicle travel lanes and improvements shall be wide enough (twelve fourteen feet) to accommodate the cyclist. Where bikes share the road, signs shall be installed along roads at regular intervals reminding motorists to watch for cyclists. Unless a shared use path is installed, bike lanes shall be designated and installed on arterials by NCDOT or the town as funding and right of way permit. 2. Vertical clearance along all bike paths shall be at least ten feet. 3. Bike lanes shall meet AASHTO design requirements and be located in a public right of way Buffers 1. Buffers between sidewalks or paths and vehicle travel lanes shall be as follows: a. Buffers shall be located within the street right of way. b. Local streets, unless otherwise noted, shall have a buffer at least four feet in width. c. All arterials shall have a buffer of at least seven feet in width. d. All collector streets in the Town Center, Commercial Mixed Use and Residential Mixed Use districts, and collector streets in the Club Residential district shall have a buffer of at least six feet in width. e. Local streets in the Town Center and Commercial Mixed Use districts shall have a buffer of at least six feet. f. All roads in the Open Space area not associated with a planned residential subdivision shall not be required to have buffers. Roads in planned residential subdivisions within the Open Space district shall meet local street standards. 2. Buffers shall be planted and shall include canopy trees, except that along collector streets the town may approve a combination of vegetation and paving materials consistent with an overall site design or adopted streetscape plan. Planting requirements for street trees shall meet the standards established by the Zoning Ordinance (see Streetyards and supplemental information). Walkable Bermuda Run Page 19

24 3. Buffers in the Town Center district may include above and below ground utilities and, on the day of trash pickup, trash cans. Street furniture (benches, waste receptacles, etc. ) and mail boxes are permitted provided they are free of advertising or attribution. Signage of any kind is forbidden, except for identification signs erected by the town. 4. Buffers in districts other than the Town Center may include above and below ground utilities, mail boxes, identification signs, and trash cans on the day of pickup. 5. Parking in buffers shall be prohibited Greenways 1. Greenways shall be at least ten feet in width and be located in a public easement or right of way. 2. Greenways shall be paved with asphalt, concrete, or finely crushed stone or granite screening (rock dust). Boardwalks may also be used in wet areas. 3. A minimum ten foot vertical clearance shall be maintained for the travel way and a two foot shoulder along all greenways. 4. Greenways shall meet AASHTO design requirements for shared use paths Signalization, Crossings and Traffic Calming 1 All sidewalks, bike lanes, and shared use paths shall use pavement markings, signage and signalization that conforms to the standards set forth in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 2. All road crossings shall be designed to safely and conveniently accommodate all users of the facility intersecting the roadway. 3. All crossings shall be designed to conform to AASHTO guidelines and shall meet NCDOT requirements on state maintained roadways. The town may require raised crossings and crossings made of different materials in high traffic areas. 4. Midblock crossings shall be required along local streets and collector streets where the town determines that the length of the street and/or the amount of nonmotorized traffic demand such a crossing and where such crossing can be installed safely. 5. Traffic calming design and devices are encouraged and may be required along certain streets where the town or NCDOT determines that the potential speed of motorized traffic may be dangerous or discouraging to non motorized traffic. Page 20 Town of Bermuda Run

25 3.4 Cross Sections The following diagrams and photographs are intended to illustrate and complement the standards set forth in Section 3.3. If conflicts are found, the text of Section 3.3 shall govern. Figure 1: Arterials Shared Use Path Option shared use path 8 buffer 7 vehicle lane Along arterials, principally U.S. 158 and N.C. 801, a shared use path may be installed on one or both sides of the road, if approved by the town, that measures at least eight feet in width. A minimum seven foot buffer is also installed between the vehicular lane and the path. A six foot sidewalk and five foot bike lane shall be installed where shared use paths are not used. Shared use path on Sanibel Island, Florida / Dan Burden Walkable Bermuda Run Page 21

26 Figure 2: Arterials Sidewalk and Bike Lane Option sidewalk 6 buffer 7 bike lane 5 vehicle lane Along arterials, principally U.S. 158 and N.C. 801, a sidewalk and designated bike lane are installed on both sides of the road where curb and gutter exist, unless a shared use path has been approved by the town. The sidewalk is at least six feet in width and the bike lane five feet in width. A minimum seven foot buffer is also installed between the vehicular lane and the path. Sidewalk and bicycle lane in Tallahassee, Florida. NOTE: the buffer and the sidewalk in this photo are less than the width required by this plan. / Dan Burden Page 22 Town of Bermuda Run

27 Figure 3: Collector Streets in the Town Center Along collector streets in the Town Center, there are designated bike lanes along the roadways, and sidewalks are on both sides of the road at a minimum width of ten feet. Buffers are six feet. sidewalk 10 buffer 6 marked bike lane 5 vehicle lane Downtown Greenville, South Carolina. Rhea Consulting, Inc. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 23

28 Figure 4: Local Streets in the Town Center and Commercial Mixed-Use Areas Along these roads, bicycles share outside lanes with motorized vehicles. Sidewalks are a minimum of six feet in width and located on both sides of the road. Buffers are six feet. sidewalk 6 buffer 6 bicycle shares vehicle lane Sidewalks in Kinderton Commercial. Rhea Consulting, Inc. Page 24 Town of Bermuda Run

29 Figure 5: Collector Streets in Commercial and Residential Mixed-Use Areas Along collector streets in Commercial and Residential Mixed Use areas, there are designated bike lanes and sidewalks along both sides of the road. Sidewalks are a minimum of six feet in width. Buffers are six feet. sidewalk 6 buffer 6 marked bike lane 5 vehicle lane Buffer and bicycle lane. NOTE: the buffer in this photo is less than the eight foot buffer required by this plan. /Dan Burden Walkable Bermuda Run Page 25

30 Figure 6: Collector Streets in Club Residential Areas Along collector streets in Club Residential areas, there are designated bike lanes along both sides of the road. Sidewalks are a minimum of six feet in width on both sides of the road. Buffers are six feet. sidewalk 6 buffer 6 bicycle shares outside lane with vehicle / Dan Burden and ITE Pedestrian Bicycle Council Page 26 Town of Bermuda Run

31 Figure 7: Local Streets in Club Residential and Residential Mixed-Use Areas Along local streets in Club Residential and Residential Mixed Use areas, bicycles share the road with vehicles. Sidewalks are a minimum of six feet in width on both sides of the road. Buffers are four feet. sidewalk 6 buffer 4 bicycle shares lane with vehicles Kinderton Residential Rhea Consulting, Inc. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 27

32 3.5 Tabular Summary of Requirements The following table is a summary of the standards set forth in Section 3.3 and illustrated in Section 3.4. If conflicts are found, the text of Section 3.3. shall govern. Table 2: Summary of Requirements for New Infrastructure Zoning District All Roadway Classification Arterials Type and Location Shared use path along one side or sidewalk and bike lanes along both sides of roadway Facility Recommendations Sidewalk/ Path Minimum Width 8 foot path/ 6 foot sidewalk Bikeway Minimum Width Buffer Minimum Width 5 feet marked 7 feet Town Center Collectors Sidewalk and marked bike lanes along both sides of roadway 10 feet 5 feet marked 6 feet Town Center and Commercial Mixed-Use Local streets Sidewalk along both sides of roadway 6 feet Bikes share outside lane with vehicles 6 feet Commercial and Residential Mixed-Use Collectors Sidewalk and marked bike lanes along both sides of roadway 6 feet 5 feet marked 6 feet Club Residential Collectors Sidewalk and marked bike lanes along both sides of roadway 6 feet Bikes share outside lane with vehicles 6 feet Residential Mixed-Use and Club Residential Local streets Sidewalk along both sides of roadway 6 feet Bikes share outside lane with vehicles 4 feet NA NA Greenways where installed 10 feet NA 2 foot shoulder All sidewalks, bike lanes, and shared use paths including greenways shall be built according to the latest AASHTO standards for construction. Page 28 Town of Bermuda Run

33 3.6 Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossing Requirements Providing a safe and efficient non motorized transportation network requires special attention to where those facilities cross streets and driveways. Any place where these facilities intersect is a potential place for accidents and should be planned and constructed with care. In all cases, such crossings must be built to the standards in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and shall be well marked and signed. Crossings shall be planned for at each street intersection and may be constructed mid block where the town determines that such crossings are necessary and safe. Where non motorized paths cross driveways for non residential uses and private streets, crossings shall also be marked and signed to remind motorists to watch for pedestrians. Contrasting materials and colors that visually distinguish the crossing work well as do raised crossings in certain places. In some cases, it may be necessary for the town to require that streets and intersections incorporate traffic calming design and devices to insure that motorized traffic moves at speeds that are safe and non threatening to pedestrians. Design considerations might include shorter block lengths. Design devices may include chicanes and bulb outs, although such devices should be carefully thought out and planned to avoid endangering cyclists using the road. Midblock crossing diagram. Federal Highway Administration. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 29

34 Planted medians provide a refuge for pedestrians crossing the street. PBIC Dan Burden Raised mid block crossings may make sense on long local streets. Raised crossings may also help to slow traffic. PBIC Dan Burden Page 30 Town of Bermuda Run

35 A change in the color and texture of pavement may help to remind motorists to watch for pedestrians. ITE Pedestrian Bicycle Council Safe crossings for bicycle lanes also require planning and special marking, such as this painted crossing in Germany. PBIC Michael King Walkable Bermuda Run Page 31

36 4 How Will This Plan Be Implemented? 4.1 Existing Policies The only policies that the town currently has related to the construction of alternative transportation facilities is the Zoning Ordinance and the Subdivision Regulations for the town. These ordinances require sidewalks in certain locations and the Zoning Ordinance refers to this plan for guidance in most cases. Where there are conflicts between the requirements of any ordinance and this plan, the more stringent regulation shall prevail. The town did not have any policies related to the construction of shared use paths or bike lanes at the time this plan was written. 4.2 Exceptions to Applicability The standards and requirements set forth in this plan shall not apply to developer installed facilities as follows: 1. Only developments along existing streets where curb and gutter exist shall be required to install sidewalks along the existing street. 2. All existing single family residential development and any new singlefamily development on existing lots of record located on existing streets shall be exempt from the requirements set forth herein. 3. All existing duplex and multi family residential developments shall be exempt from the requirements set forth herein. 4. All new duplex and multi family residential developments with less than five units per acre shall be exempt from meeting the standards set forth herein along any existing street. 5. New single family residential subdivisions shall be required to meet all sidewalk standards set forth herein for any new street constructed and to extend facilities along existing streets abutting the new subdivision whenever such streets intersect the new street(s) and such extensions will connect the new subdivision to an existing or planned sidewalk network. Where more than Page 32 Town of Bermuda Run

37 one existing street abuts the property, the Planning Board may waive the requirement for facilities along one of these streets as outlined in Section Existing non residential development shall be exempt from the requirements set forth herein; however, unless otherwise exempt, redevelopment of the site into a new commercial retail or office use shall subject the new development to all requirements that may apply. 7. All properties within the General Business and Open Space districts are exempt from the requirements set forth herein. 8. Bicycle lanes shall not be required along any existing street, but may be constructed by the town or NCDOT as funding permits. 9. Greenways shall not be required, but may be permitted according to the standards set forth herein. 4.3 Waivers 1. The Planning Board may waive any of the requirements contained within this plan where, in its opinion, such waiver is consistent with the vision of this plan and does not disrupt or impair the non motorized network. Waivers shall be limited to the following: a. Infill development in neighborhoods or on streets where the sidewalks and bicycle facilities should match the dominate pattern on the street or in the neighborhood. b. Physical features of the area including the availability of existing or new public rights of way (including NCDOT encroachment), grades, rocks/ ledges, specimen trees or other important natural features which should be preserved, etc. In these cases, the Planning Board may approve alternate locations, buffer widths, path widths, pavement, or path types. c. Shared use paths, including greenways, may be constructed using boardwalks in wet areas or finely crushed stone or granite screening (rock dust) in low traffic areas. d. Sidewalks in the Club Residential area may be waived if the Planning Board determines that a planned or existing greenway would serve the same purpose. Walkable Bermuda Run Page 33

38 e. Sidewalks along cul de sacs may be waived if the board determines that street characteristics and nearby facilities will provide adequate levels of service for pedestrians. f. Whenever the developer can demonstrate that imminent road or public improvements planned by NCDOT, the town, or a public utility would compromise or destroy a required sidewalk, path, or greenway, construction of the facility may be delayed up to one year as long as the improvements are guaranteed with a surety bond, letter of credit or similar instrument acceptable to the town. g. Whenever a new development occurs on a corner lot or is otherwise bounded by two or more existing streets, the Planning Board may waive the requirement for improvements on all but one of these streets where it determines that the requirement for extension along more than one street will not provide connectivity to a larger network of facilities. 2. The Planning Board may also waive any of the requirements contained within this plan if, and to the extent that, the Board finds that to require a developer to construct the facilities called for in this plan along an existing street would be to impose an obligation that is not roughly proportional to the need for such facilities created by the proposed development. 4.4 Developer Installed Facilities Most of the facilities envisioned by this plan will be built by developers as part of the development approval process. By adoption of this plan and statements contained within the zoning and subdivision ordinances, the town has declared that alternative transportation facilities are a public necessity and shall be required as public improvements on all new construction sites and along all new streets within all new subdivisions as directed by those ordinances and this plan unless otherwise permitted by the town to be constructed as private improvements. Sidewalks and bike lanes, as required, shall be installed as continuous networks in all new subdivisions. As such, they shall be constructed as planned prior to the release of a certificate of occupancy or bonded for completion in the same manner as streets and other public infrastructure. Page 34 Town of Bermuda Run

39 4.5 Public Installation of Facilities Facilities as outlined in this plan may be planned and constructed by the town when and if funding is available. It is the policy of the town to apply for any and all funds available for new facility construction and existing facility maintenance whenever practicable. However, it is inevitable that the construction of sidewalks along existing streets will impose a financial burden on the town. Therefore, the construction of sidewalks on existing streets shall be based on a list of priorities determined by the Town Council on an annual basis. The Planning Board s recommended list for the Town Council s consideration is attached as an appendix to this plan. Facilities may also be considered upon petition by residents. In constructing new sidewalks along existing streets, the Town Council may decide to cover the entire cost of construction using town monies, or it may ask the property owners along the street or within the neighborhood to bear or to share in the cost of construction. If the cost is to be shared, the Town Council shall establish a policy for cost allocation and a plan for payment by property owners. Only town residents may petition for sidewalks and only streets within the corporate limits of Bermuda Run shall be eligible for public installation of sidewalks. Petitions for new sidewalks or sidewalk extensions shall be submitted to the Town Council on forms provided at town hall. All petitions shall contain the signatures of at least fiftyone percent of the property owners along the street where the sidewalk is requested. Petitions that lack sidewalk continuity will not be considered. In other words, the requested improvements must extend from block to block or from the end of existing sidewalks to the terminus of a block or another section of sidewalk. The Town Council may refer the request to the Planning Board for its consideration and recommendation. If the Town Council determines that a sidewalk may be warranted, then it may commission an engineering study to evaluate feasibility, considering factors such as: Available right of way or town easement for installation Traffic counts (required to determine priority) Terrain Existing obstructions, utility poles, landscaping, etc. Existing trees and the impact on trees Walkable Bermuda Run Page 35

40 Drainage conditions; and Cost estimates The results of the study will be made available to the public. Based upon the results of this study, the Town Council will decide that it will or will not consider the construction of sidewalks in the location requested. If the street already has sidewalks along one side, then the Town Council may consider it a lower priority than other requests and deny or delay the request. If the sidewalk would allow residents to connect to shopping areas, schools, government services and office locations, the Town Council may consider it a higher priority and place it before other requests. If the Town Council determines that a requested facility is not a priority for the town and that it will not consider public participation in its construction, the Town Council may permit the private installation of a public facility as long as its construction meets the minimum standards outlined herein and the facility and the land on which it and any associated buffers are constructed is dedicated by easement or right of way to the town. Shared use paths, including greenways, that are not required as part of a development project may be constructed entirely by the town or the town may enter into an agreement with any public, private or non profit entity to share the cost of construction. 4.6 Priority Facilities Appendix A contains a recommended list of potential Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) projects for the public construction of new sidewalks, shared use paths, bike lanes and greenways, especially where such projects are needed to fill in system gaps. The CIP priority list is prepared annually by the Planning Board for consideration by the Town Council as part of the budget process. If accepted by the Town Council, such projects may need to undergo detailed corridor analysis to identify obstacles and opportunities and to estimate cost of construction. 4.7 Facilities Required for Voluntary Annexation The Town Council may, at its discretion, require any petitioner requesting voluntary annexation to install sidewalks, signage, or pedestrian crossings consistent with the standards set forth herein as a condition of annexation. The council may also alter or waive any standard, which, in its opinion, cannot reasonably be met by the petitioner. Page 36 Town of Bermuda Run