January 2012 - Bikeboard - lists.frackcheckwv.net

Re: [Bikeboard] Sidewalk cycling
by Hugh Kierig 01 Feb '12

01 Feb '12

Bicycles should not be allowed to be riden on sidewalks in commercial areas. In these instances the present a pedestrian hazard. Hugh E. Kierig -----Original Message----- From: Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> Cc: Christiaan Abildso <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu> To: Bicycle Board <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> Sent: 1/29/2012 6:57:09 PM Subject: [Bikeboard] Sidewalk cycling Bicycle Board Members, At this Tuesday's meeting, City Council will discuss riding on sidewalks. See Agenda. WHAT SHOULD WE DO? We have 2 days to decide. Primarily, in response to a request from Chief Preston, they're banning unicycles from sidewalks and streets, effectively banning unicycles. I imagine this will lead to discussing bicycling on sidewalks which I imagine could lead to police ticketing bicyclists who ride on sidewalks. IMO, that won't exactly help us realize our vision of every resident being able to bicycle safely and fearlessly anywhere, anytime for any reason or to achieve our goal of having 1 or every 20 vehicles on Morgantown streets be a bicycle by 2020. I would like to turn this around from being negative to some kind of positive action to support our vision, goal, objectives and recommended action but I don't know how. Ideas? Specifically, they're going to revise two parts of the code: 311.02 TOY VEHICLES ON STREETS and 373.08 RIDING ON SIDEWALKS, specifically 373.08 (d). Personally, I've always had a problem with 373.08 (d) because 373 is entitled "Bicycles" but 373.08 (d) is about skateboards and roller skates and soon to include unicycles. If they had asked me about this ordinance change, I would first have recommended that they remove part (d) from 373. (See Bicycle Law .) Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Unicycles
by Frank Gmeindl 30 Jan '12

30 Jan '12

Dear Terrence, The proposed amendments of the City code to control unicycles on sidewalks and streets could damage our efforts to reduce traffic congestion and to make Morgantown a Bicycle Friendly Community. Our concern is that those who are bicycling on the sidewalks and get tickets will end up driving cars. The Bicycle Board recognizes that sidewalk bicycling is dangerous to bicyclists as well as to pedestrians. Our approach to getting bicyclists off the sidewalks and onto the streets is to educate them that the law gives them same rights to the road as motorists and subjects them to the same duties. We produced 5,000 police information cards (http://bikemorgantown.com/articles.php?str=2012/01/ticketing-cyclists.html) and gave them to Chief Preston and WVU police for this purpose. We encourage police to give these cards to bicyclists as well as motorists that violate laws that jeopardize bicyclists' safety. Now, I recognize that the subject for Tuesday's Committee of the Whole is unicycles but since one of the code amendments is to article 373. Bicycles, specifically 373.08 Riding on Sidewalks, the discussion is likely to stray from unicycles to bicycling on sidewalks. I explicitly request that you consider our points above if discussion does stray to sidewalk bicycling. Perhaps you could even distribute some police information cards. One element of the procedural guidelines under which the City chartered the Bicycle Board is "review and support the implementation of Article 373 on Bicycles of the Morgantown Municipal Code." We have been working on this for years and have preliminary recommendations for code updates but we are not yet ready to propose them to the Traffic Commission. One of those recommendations is to remove 373.08 (d) from 373 since 373.08 (d) has nothing to do with bicycles. Another reason for removing the language of 373.08 (d) from 373 is that doing so would diminish the grouping of bicycles with skateboards, roller skates, and soon, unicycles. We need to recognize that one reason residents may choose to bicycle on the sidewalks rather than on the streets is that they perceive the streets to be more dangerous. Until we can educate them that they can ride safely on the streets and until we can make the streets safer for bicycling, e.g. by enforcing laws whose violation endangers cyclists, we could consider amending the 373.08 Riding on Sidewalks to make riding on sidewalks safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. One such measure could be to amend 373.08 to permit bicycling on the sidewalks at a speed no greater than the prevailing speed of pedestrian traffic. I hope that we will discuss this matter before Tuesday's Committee of the Whole meeting. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Re: [Bikeboard] Sidewalk cycling
by director 30 Jan '12

30 Jan '12

Frank, et al, At one time it was possible to find the Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC) online and as near as I can remember it had language to the effect of... Safety is determined by operator behavior rather than conveyance. If a cyclist rides on the sidewalk at pedestrian speeds, aware of and yielding to pedestrians, then there will be no difference in safety than if he were a pedestrian. I thought that seemed pretty sensible, and it agreed with my experience. If one of our transportation professionals has access to the UVC please look this up and verify it. If that language is still in there I recommend that any new law be modeled on this language for these 2 reasons... - It will guide cyclists and pedestrians in safe behavior - It is enforcable and justifiable - It is based on a national criteria that might be followed by other municipalities, instead of the current nutty patchwork of vigilante sidewalk laws that are impractical to know and often selectively enforced. Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 803 East Brockway Ave Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 -----Original Message----- From: "Frank Gmeindl" <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> Sent 1/29/2012 6:57:09 PM To: "Bicycle Board" <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> Cc: "Christiaan Abildso" <christiaan.abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu> Subject: [Bikeboard] Sidewalk cycling Bicycle Board Members, At this Tuesday's meeting, City Council will discuss riding on sidewalks. See Agenda. WHAT SHOULD WE DO? We have 2 days to decide. Primarily, in response to a request from Chief Preston, they're banning unicycles from sidewalks and streets, effectively banning unicycles. I imagine this will lead to discussing bicycling on sidewalks which I imagine could lead to police ticketing bicyclists who ride on sidewalks. IMO, that won't exactly help us realize our vision of every resident being able to bicycle safely and fearlessly anywhere, anytime for any reason or to achieve our goal of having 1 or every 20 vehicles on Morgantown streets be a bicycle by 2020. I would like to turn this around from being negative to some kind of positive action to support our vision, goal, objectives and recommended action but I don't know how. Ideas? Specifically, they're going to revise two parts of the code: 311.02 TOY VEHICLES ON STREETS and 373.08 RIDING ON SIDEWALKS, specifically 373.08 (d). Personally, I've always had a problem with 373.08 (d) because 373 is entitled "Bicycles" but 373.08 (d) is about skateboards and roller skates and soon to include unicycles. If they had asked me about this ordinance change, I would first have recommended that they remove part (d) from 373. (See Bicycle Law .) Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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Sidewalk cycling
by Frank Gmeindl 29 Jan '12

29 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, At this Tuesday's meeting, City Council will discuss riding on sidewalks. See Agenda. WHAT SHOULD WE DO? We have 2 days to decide. Primarily, in response to a request from Chief Preston, they're banning unicycles from sidewalks and streets, effectively banning unicycles. I imagine this will lead to discussing bicycling on sidewalks which I imagine could lead to police ticketing bicyclists who ride on sidewalks. IMO, that won't exactly help us realize our vision of every resident being able to bicycle safely and fearlessly anywhere, anytime for any reason or to achieve our goal of having 1 or every 20 vehicles on Morgantown streets be a bicycle by 2020. I would like to turn this around from being negative to some kind of positive action to support our vision, goal, objectives and recommended action but I don't know how. Ideas? Specifically, they're going to revise two parts of the code: 311.02 TOY VEHICLES ON STREETS and 373.08 RIDING ON SIDEWALKS, specifically 373.08 (d). Personally, I've always had a problem with 373.08 (d) because 373 is entitled "Bicycles" but 373.08 (d) is about skateboards and roller skates and soon to include unicycles. If they had asked me about this ordinance change, I would first have recommended that they remove part (d) from 373. (See Bicycle Law .) Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Critical vote for West Virginia's representatives
by Frank Gmeindl 29 Jan '12

29 Jan '12

Please urge our representative, David McKinley to support the amendment which will protect Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School. Take Action here: http://capwiz.com/lab/issues/alert/?alertid=60787356&PROCESS=Take+Action TE is the fund that supported our education program. SRTS is a high priority SRTS recommendation in our Bicycle Plan. On Thursday, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is going to vote on an amendment to preserve Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School. Please see this blog post for more background http://blog.bikeleague.org/blog/2012/01/house-bill-threatens-to-eliminate-b…. In addition, Rep. Rahall, http://www.rahall.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91 is the ranking member of the T&I committee and his vote could make or break the outcome of the amendment vote (it could also sway others’ votes). It is very, very important that he hears from his constituents. Help spread the word to people living in Rep. Rahall’s district 3 or, as I did, write him. (I just copied the message that LAB has at the link ahead.) Congresswoman Capito (WV-2) also has an important vote (but I couldn't figure out how to send her an e-mail). If you have any questions, please follow up with Darren Flusche at LAB Darren Flusche <Darren(a)bikeleague.org> or Caron Whitaker at America Bikes Caron Whitaker <caron(a)americabikes.org>. This is an issue that has wide ranging impacts for safety, health, transportation, and beyond. Frank

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Complete Streets legislation
by Frank Gmeindl 29 Jan '12

29 Jan '12

This is a WV bill that would require municipalities and the WVDOH to create Complete Streets. http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Bill_Status/bills_text.cfm?billdoc=hb4074%20in… Frank

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Agenda for this Thursday's BB meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 28 Jan '12

28 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Please find attached, a suggested agenda for this Thursday's BB meeting. If you'd like any changes, please reply-to-all. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Fwd: Take action now - save funding for bicycle programs
by Frank Gmeindl 28 Jan '12

28 Jan '12

Begin forwarded message: > From: "Colin Dierman" <colin(a)wamsleycycles.com> > Date: January 28, 2012 9:59:25 AM EST > To: <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> > Subject: Fw: Take action now - save funding for bicycle programs > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: "John Burke - Trek Bicycle" <john_burke(a)trekbikes.com> > Sent 1/27/2012 5:00:00 PM > To: colin(a)wamsleycycles.com > Subject: Take action now - save funding for bicycle programs > > Contact your state representative today to help save funding > > Login to dexdealer.com > View this email in your browser > Trek Retailers, > > Over the past ten years many Trek retailers have made a difference in helping to make America a bicycle friendly country. We’ve made a lot of progress, but we have a long way to go. Unfortunately, as a movement, we are facing some real challenges in Washington. Next Thursday, the House Transportation Committee is voting on the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act, a bill that eliminates crucial funding for biking and walking. We stand to lose $1.2 billion and over 3000 potential bike and pedestrian projects, including Safe Routes to School programs. > > I need your help to preserve these dedicated biking and walking infrastructure funds. > > What should you do? > > 1. Pick up the phone and contact your elected official. Find their number here. > 2. Send an email to your elected official. Find their email here. > 3. Send your customers an email asking them to also contact their representative. > 4. Ask your fans and followers on Facebook and Twitter to take action. > > Your message can be as simple as this… > > My name is Jim Smith and I am the owner of Jim’s Bike Shop in Madison Wisconsin. I’m contacting you today to asking you to protect the dedicated pedestrian and bicycle funding in the new American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act. > > This bill is expected to eliminate the two largest programs that fund bicycling and walking infrastructure—Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School. Without these programs, communities in our district and all over the country will lose access to resources to build the facilities that keep people safe. > > Bicycling and walking are critical to keeping our communities moving with healthy, safe, and accessible transportation options. > > As a small business owner in your district the success of my business is directly affected by the quality and the amount of safe bicycle infrastructure. > > Biking and walking make up 12 percent of all trips, but only 1.5 percent of federal funding. > > And bicycling is good for health and the environment. > > Thank you for your support. > Jim from Jims Bike Shop > Madison, WI > > A call will only take five minutes out of your day, but it could be the difference between no funding and a billion dollars in funding. > > When you call your representative’s office, you will most likely get voicemail or talk to the representative’s staff member. That is okay. Still leave the message. Every call counts. It is vital that every Trek Retailer step up and make a call. > > Your phone call matters. Last year, when the Transportation extension was at risk, Bikes Belong called upon 20,000 California residents through the peopleforbikes.org campaign. They were each asked to contact Senator Pelosi and ask for her support of dedicated bicycle infrastructure funding. Within 48 hours they had over 2,000 calls to her office. 48 hours later Senator Pelosi called press conference and publicly announced her support of the bicycle funding. This new multi-year bill is critical. We need every representative to hear from their constituents. > > After you call, please send me a note. I am a firm believer in what gets measured gets done. We have 1500 Trek retailers across the country. My goal is to get 500 business owners to make the call by next Tuesday. > > Thank you, > John Burke > > Click here for more information regarding the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act. > Update your preferences for Trek Bicycle emails. > This email was sent to: colin(a)wamsleycycles.com > Trek Bicycle | 801 W. Madison St. | Waterloo, WI 53594 | United States > ©1995-2011 Trek Bicycle Corporation. All rights reserved. > > > >

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Fwd: Transportation plan
by Frank Gmeindl 27 Jan '12

27 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, FYI. I sent the message below to Mon Bike Club and Country Roads Cyclists. Please attend the meetings and advocate for the Bicycle Plan. I'm planning to at least attend the Wednesday meeting at South Middle School since it's close to my house. Frank Begin forwarded message: > From: Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> > Date: January 23, 2012 10:14:23 AM EST > To: monbikeclub(a)googlegroups.com, CRcyclists(a)googlegroups.com > Subject: Fwd: Transportation plan > > Wednesday, Jan. 25 South Middle School, 7-9 pm > Thursday, Jan. 26 North Elementary School, 7-9 pm > > Please attend one or both of these meetings and tell planners what bicyclists need. > > In City, County and State government, we now have officials that are more receptive to bicycling than we've had in my 38 years here. If we show up and tell them what we need, they will put it in the transportation and land use plans. To be sure, they will get plenty of input from non-cyclists. Like racing, we can't win if we don't show up. > > If you don't know what to say, tell them to implement the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan, http://db.tt/2NaSlSZ4 . Or, choose something you like from it and advocate for that. > > Today's Dominion Post had this editorial about it: http://tinyurl.com/7yr5qku . > And, this article about it (note, two pages): http://tinyurl.com/7grzq2k AND http://tinyurl.com/7pcg28e . > > 4ank > > > Begin forwarded message: > >> From: Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> >> Date: January 11, 2012 10:53:29 PM EST >> To: monbikeclub(a)googlegroups.com, CRcyclists(a)googlegroups.com >> Subject: Transportation plan >> >> The Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization is developing a transportation plan for our area. The attached flier describes meetings that they've scheduled for Jan. 25 and 26 to get public input. This is a chance for cyclists to tell planners how to make our transportation system good for bicyclists. >> >> 4ank >> > >

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Bicycle Plan presentation to Council postponed to 2/28
by Frank Gmeindl 26 Jan '12

26 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, The presentation of the Bicycle Plan to City Council at its committee of the whole meeting will be February 28 instead of January 31. I'm not sure why the date change but it could be that I misunderstood Terrence when we set it up Jan. 4. Here's the current plan: Feb. 13: The City Manager's office will send advance copies of the plan and presentation to Council Feb. 17: Submit Bicycle Friendly Community award application to LAB stating that the bicycle plan will be reviewed by Council 2/28. (I'm going to press to submit it ASAP now.) Feb. 28: Deliver presentation to City Council at committee of the whole. If you've contacted your councilor, please continue working with him or her but let him or her know that the presentation will be Feb. 28, not Jan. 31. I'm sorry for the confusion. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Fwd: WV 705 Connector (Mileground Widening Project)
by Frank Gmeindl 26 Jan '12

26 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, FYI, I submitted the following (not on behalf of the BB but just myself): > Comments submitted to Greg Bailey, WVDOH January 24, 2012 > > I'm writing on the WV 705 Connector project as a Morgantown bicyclist and pedestrian. After having attended the January 24, 2012 public meeting at Easton Elementary School as well as previous meetings on this project, I offer the following recommendations. > > 1. Install roundabout at Mileground/Airport Blvd. intersection. This roundabout will enable continuous flow on Mileground between and around the roundabouts. > > 2.Install mountable median instead of currently preferred center turn lane. Center turn lane (suicide lane) crash statistics prove that center turn lanes are extremely dangerous and unjustifiable in any modern design. > > 3. Post speed limit at 35 mph or less. > > 4. Install R4-11 Bicycles May Use Full Lane signs throughout the corridor. > > 5. Install sidewalk on the north side of Easton Hill to enable pedestrians from the West Run Valley to walk to Mileground. > > 6. Install sidewalk on east side of 705 between Mileground and Chestnut Ridge Rd. to enable pedestrians to walk between Mileground and Suncrest Town Center. (Rudimentary bicyclist and pedestrian connections between Suncrest Town Center and WVU Research Park, Monongalia General Hospital and businesses in Suncrest currently exist and justify pedestrian connection of Mileground to the Chestnut Ridge Rd. area.) > > I appreciate your fair consideration of these recommendations. Frank Begin forwarded message: > From: Damien Davis <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Date: January 25, 2012 8:46:15 AM EST > To: William Wyant <wwyant(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, mmccabe(a)cityofmorgantown.org, wes(a)wnugent.com, Jeff Mikorski <jmikorski(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, j4im3s(a)gmail.com, "mckain, david" <david.mckain(a)gmail.com>, "Henry, Adam" <Adam.Henry(a)mail.wvu.edu>, christophergluck(a)gmail.com, psteel(a)access.k12.wv.us, "Gmeindl, Frank" <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net>, Andrea Soccorsi <Andrea.Soccorsi(a)Mail.WVU.edu>, Barbara Shellito <bshellito(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Christiaan Abildso <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Ken Martis <kmartis(a)wvu.edu>, Margaret Roberts <Margaretormike(a)aol.com>, Roy Nutter <rnutter(a)wvu.edu>, Trevor Lloyd <tlloyd(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Subject: WV 705 Connector (Mileground Widening Project) > Reply-To: ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org > > All, > > Attached is the handout from DOH's public meeting concerning the 705 Connector project. At the back of the handout is a form for comments. Comments can also be made by visiting the link below: > > http://www.transportation.wv.gov/highways/engineering/comment/wv705connecto… > > The DOH will be accepting comments until Friday, February 24, 2012. > > J. Damien Davis, PE, CFM > Assistant City Engineer > City of Morgantown > Public Works Department - Engineering Division > 389 Spruce Street > Morgantown, WV 26505 > Office: 304.284.7398 > Fax: 304.284.7409 > www.morgantown.com >

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Morgantown Bicycle Plan
by Frank Gmeindl 26 Jan '12

26 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Please find attached, a draft presentation of the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan to the City Council that is schedule for January 31. Please review it and reply to all with comments to improve it or your concurrence with it. I currently contains 9 short slides that I think I can present in the 5-minutes I expect to have to present it. The attached is in ppt format. Please let me know if you have any trouble opening it. I'll work with you to get it to you in a format that you can view it. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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League of American Bicyclists Bike Summit coming March
by director 26 Jan '12

26 Jan '12

Good morning, Just a reminder that the early registration deadline for the League's Bike Summit is coming soon. This is a great opportunity to learn from other cyclists who are having success in their cities - find out what works and who can help. You'll also get to meet your lawmakers, connect with great people and get yourself charged up for the coming year of advocacy. I really can't say enough good things about this, and if there's any way you can make it you should. Hope to see you there. Nick http://www.bikeleague.org/conferences/summit12/index.php Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 803 East Brockway Ave Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213

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Fwd: Feb. Traffic Commission Meeting
by Frank Gmeindl 25 Jan '12

25 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Please review the attached BB report to the TC and reply if you see any opportunities for improvement. I have already submitted it since it is due today but I could change it when I present it next Wednesday. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles Begin forwarded message: > From: Frank Gmeindl <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net> > Date: January 25, 2012 11:49:52 AM EST > To: ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org > Subject: Re: Feb. Traffic Commission Meeting > > Damien, > > Please find attached, 2 files: 20120201Report_to_TC.doc and MBPpresToCC20120131v02.pdf . The .doc is the BB report to the TC. The .pdf is the presentation of the Bicycle Plan to the City Council. (I made the presentation a pdf showing 6 slides/page to save paper.) > > Frank > > > On Jan 24, 2012, at 12:19 AM, Damien Davis wrote: > >> All, >> >> It's that time of the month again. If you have any items for the agenda please email me by close of business Wednesday. Thanks. >> >> J. Damien Davis, PE, CFM >> Assistant City Engineer >> City of Morgantown >> Public Works Department - Engineering Division >> 389 Spruce Street >> Morgantown, WV 26505 >> Office: 304.284.7398 >> Fax: 304.284.7409 >> www.morgantown.com >> >

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Fwd: For Mileground Meeting-Comparison w/Patteson
by Frank Gmeindl 24 Jan '12

24 Jan '12

Begin forwarded message: > From: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > Date: January 24, 2012 12:30:57 PM EST > To: Bill Reger-Nash <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Bob Anderson <randerson(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Christiaan Abildso <cgabildso(a)mail.wvu.edu>, David Small <dsmall1(a)mix.wvu.edu>, Dwight Harshbarger <dwight.harshbarger(a)gmail.com>, George Lilley <mgranlil(a)frontier.com>, Ilana Chertok <ichertok(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Jan Derry <jderry(a)nwvcil.org>, Jimmie Simmons <Jsimmons2642(a)yahoo.com>, Margaret Stout <Margaret.Stout(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Maria Smith <mariasmith(a)busride.org>, Martha Summers <msummers(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Mary Gutmann <maryg1010(a)comcast.net>, Michael Graham <migraham(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Regina Mayolo <reginam(a)verizon.net>, Sarah Bias <sarahbias(a)gmail.com>, Stan Cohen <Stanley.Cohen(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Tom Bias <tbias(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Angela Wiley <wileya120(a)gmail.com>, Bill Austin <baustin(a)labyrinth.net>, Claire Chantler <cchantler(a)nwvcil.org>, Damien Davis <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Ella Belling <ella(a)montrails.org>, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, Hugh Kierig <Hugh.Kierig(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Jim Rye <Jim.Rye(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org>, Josh Woods <joshua.woods(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Kevin Leyden <Kevin.Leyden(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Matt Cross <crossnyc(a)hotmail.com>, Michael Simms <michael.d.simms(a)gmail.com>, Mike Breiding <mike(a)EpicRoadTrips.us>, Nick Hein <info(a)positivespin.org>, Roy Nutter <roy.nutter(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Sera Janson Zegre <sera(a)downstreamstrategies.com> > Subject: For Mileground Meeting-Comparison w/Patteson > Reply-To: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > > Many thanks to Damien in the City Engineer's office for information about Patteson Drive, see below and attached. 17% of City accidents on that 1.6 mile stretch of road > The Mileground could very easily become the Patteson/Chestnut Ridge corridor...4 lanes & turn lane, many access points and many conflicts. > > Additionally, there were 12 pedestrian-vehicle accidents on that corridor from mid 2005 to mid 2010; that represents 13% of the 95 accidents in the City during that time frame. > Thanks to Michael Graham for putting together the map which we can reference quickly: http://www.communitywalk.com/accidents/map/942917 > > Is that the type of road we want...dangerous by design? > Christiaan > > Walk more, safely > > Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board > Christiaan Abildso, Chair > Bill Reger-Nash, Vice Chair > http://www.morgantown.com/ped-safety-board.htm > > ----- Forwarded Message ----- > From: Christiaan Abildso <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu> > To: walkmgw(a)yahoo.com > Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 10:25 AM > Subject: Fwd: Re: Feb. Traffic Commission Meeting > >>> On 1/24/2012 at 9:36 AM, <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org> wrote: > Christiaan,I was going to present this at the meeting tonight but since you're offering here is the info. Between 6-19-2008 and 12-11-2011 the crashes on Patteson, Van Voohis and Chestnut Ridge Rd (1.6 miles, all of it 5 lanes) between Mon Blvd to the City Limits (by Sheetz) represent 17% of all the accidents in the City. > Head on collisions - 13 > Angle (Front to Side) Opposite Direction - 57 > Angle (Front to Side) Same Direction - 28 > Angle - Direction Not Specified - 17 > Right Angle - 108 > Sideswipe, Opposite Direction - 13 > Sideswipe, Same Direction - 47 > Rear End - 381 > Single Vehicle Crash - 20 > Rear-to-Side - 1 > Grand Total of Accidents - 685 > > I've attached a map also. > > J. Damien Davis, PE, CFM > Assistant City Engineer > City of Morgantown > Public Works Department - Engineering Division > 389 Spruce Street > Morgantown, WV 26505 > Office: 304.284.7398 > Fax: 304.284.7409 > www.morgantown.com > From: "Christiaan Abildso" <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu>To: ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.orgSent: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 9:13:15 AMSubject: Re: Feb. Traffic Commission Meeting > Damien - > Do you have a quick summary list of vehicle accidents in Morgantown? I'd like to recommend at the Mileground meeting this evening that they not turn the MG into Patteson/Chestnut Ridge Road because that is one of the most dangerous designs...but I would like to have some data. > Thanks > Christiaan >

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Fwd: Complete Streets legislation, AARP, DOH
by Frank Gmeindl 24 Jan '12

24 Jan '12

Terrence, Roy, The Bicycle Board thanks the Pedestrian Safety Board for composing such a compelling, comprehensive and concise letter urging our legislature to enact Complete Streets legislation. We strongly encourage the City's sending it to our delegates. As you know, Complete Streets is a high priority recommended action in the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles > ----- Forwarded Message ----- > From: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > To: Terrence Moore <tmoore(a)cityofmorgantown.org>; Roy Nutter <roy.nutter(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Cc: Bill Reger-Nash <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu>; Bill Byrne <citycouncilward6(a)cityofmorgantown.org>; Jennifer Selin <citycouncilward4(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 9:41 AM > Subject: Re: Complete Streets legislation, AARP, DOH > > All - > To follow-up on last night's email. Please find attached some text for a letter that I would like to see the TC, City Mgr, and Coucil or Mayor sign and send to our delegates and senators (and/or the leadership of the committees that will make or break the bill), especially our Delegate Pasdon, who serves on the House Roads & Transportation Committee (http://www.legis.state.wv.us/committees/house/HouseCommittee.cfm?Chart=rt); leadership on that committee includes > Delegate Staggers - Chair > Delegate Phillips, L. - Vice-Chair (***She is a co-sponsor of the bill) > Delegate Cowles - Minority Chair > Delegate Evans - Minority Vice-Chair > > Finance Committee includes Delegate Guthrie (sponsor of the bill) and our Delegate Marshall (co-sponsor of the bill); (http://www.legis.state.wv.us/committees/house/HouseCommittee.cfm?Chart=fin); leadership includes > Delegate White - Chair > Delegate Campbell, T. - Vice-Chair > Delegate Anderson - Minority Chair > Delegate Carmichael - Minority Vice-Chair > Feel free to contact me with any questions. This is time sensitive, though I don't have an exact date. I'll find out. > Could it be taken up at next week's committee of the whole meeting? > Remember, the state AARP is lobbying hard for this bill as well. > Christiaan > > Walk more, safely > > Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board > Christiaan Abildso, Chair > Bill Reger-Nash, Vice Chair > http://www.morgantown.com/ped-safety-board.htm > > From: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > To: Terrence Moore <tmoore(a)cityofmorgantown.org>; Roy Nutter <roy.nutter(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Cc: Bill Reger-Nash <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu> > Sent: Monday, January 23, 2012 9:07 PM > Subject: Complete Streets legislation, AARP, DOH > > Roy & Terrence - > Bill Reger-Nash and I had an excellent conversation Thursday with Delegates Guthrie (Kanawha), Marshall (our own), Poore (Kanawha), and Phillips (Wyoming); and the director, associate director, and lobbyists for the state AARP. The AARP folks were happily surprised that DOT Sec Mattox was positive about the CS legislation (HB 2316, very brief, see URL below): > http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Bill_Status/bills_history.cfm?year=2012&sessio… > > We may be asked to return for a dinner meeting with some Roads & Transportation and Finance committee members the day prior to the bill being voted on in Charleston. The AARP folks believe that all support to legislators will help. Further, a DOH employee indicated that one of the DOH's potential barriers to CS legislation is that it will "cost more" (hooey because of costly rebuilds, accidents, etc add to direct and indirect costs). Thus, letters of support from the City Manager, Traffic Commission, and/or City Council/Mayor would help. > > Please let me know how we may all proceed together or separately. > Christiaan > > Walk more, safely > > Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board > Christiaan Abildso, Chair > Bill Reger-Nash, Vice Chair > http://www.morgantown.com/ped-safety-board.htm > > > >

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Bike Sharing systems get people biking in cities
by director 19 Jan '12

19 Jan '12

For your reading enjoyment. http://www.treehugger.com/bikes/bike-sharing-its-global-city-cyclings-gatew… Nick, aka Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 803 East Brockway Ave Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213

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Fwd: Long range Transportation Plan Meetings
by Hugh Kierig 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

All: There was an error in the locations of the meetings that is corrected below. I apologize for any confusion. Hugh E. Kierig, AICP, Director Department of Transportation and Parking West Virginia University Post Office Box 6561 1112 Van Voorhis Morgantown, West Virginia 26506 304-293-9095 (o) 304-293-3939 (f) >>> Hugh Kierig 1/17/2012 2:19 PM >>> Dear Morgantown Bicycle Board Member: In the next few months Morgantown, Star City, and Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization will engage in an unprecedented effort to develop a shared vision for the future of the region. The vision will become the foundation for Morgantown and Star City’s comprehensive plans and for the region’s Long Range Transportation Plan. The first step in building that vision consists of two Idea Gathering meetings. this is a perfect opportunity to interject into the plan many of the recommendations of the recently concluded Bicycle Plan. The purpose of these meetings is to identify the ideas, principles, and goals that will mold the area’s future. The best way to make sure that the issues and ideas you care about are part of the vision is to participate in one of these meetings. The meetings will be held January 25th at South Middle School and January 26th at North Elementary School. Both meetings begin at 7 PM. Share this email and the invitation flyer with your friends, co-workers, and with members of any organization you may belong to. I hope to see you at the meetings. Sincerely, Hugh E. Kierig, AICP, Director Department of Transportation and Parking West Virginia University Post Office Box 6561 1112 Van Voorhis Morgantown, West Virginia 26506 304-293-9095 (o) 304-293-3939 (f)

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Re: [Bikeboard] Long range Transportation Plan Meetings
by Chip Wamsley 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

To all, I hope everyone on the bike board attends one of these meetings--we might be more effective in getting our message heard, if we split up into different focus groups and don't stick together. Keep this in mind. Chip -----Original Message----- From: "Jonathan Rosenbaum" <freesource(a)cheat.org> Sent 1/17/2012 3:22:01 PM To: "Hugh Kierig" <Hugh.Kierig(a)mail.wvu.edu> Cc: "Bicycle Board" <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] Long range Transportation Plan Meetings Hugh, just so there is no confusion, you wrote the names of the schools backwards, by exchanging North for South, therefor providing different dates, but the flyer does have the correct names as "North Elementary School" and "South Middle School", and it provides the date of the 25th for South Middle School, and the 26th for North Elementary School. -Jonathan On 1/17/2012 2:19 PM, Hugh Kierig wrote: Dear Morgantown Bicycle Board Member: In the next few months Morgantown, Star City, and Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization will engage in an unprecedented effort to develop a shared vision for the future of the region. The vision will become the foundation for Morgantown and Star City’s comprehensive plans and for the region’s Long Range Transportation Plan. The first step in building that vision consists of two Idea Gathering meetings. this is a perfect opportunity to interject into the plan many of the recommendations of the recently concluded Bicycle Plan. The purpose of these meetings is to identify the ideas, principles, and goals that will mold the area’s future. The best way to make sure that the issues and ideas you care about are part of the vision is to participate in one of these meetings. The meetings will be held January 25th at North Middle School and January 26th at South Elementary School. Both meetings begin at 7 PM. Share this email and the invitation flyer with your friends, co-workers, and with members of any organization you may belong to. I hope to see you at the meetings. Sincerely, Hugh E. Kierig, AICP, Director Department of Transportation and Parking West Virginia University Post Office Box 6561 1112 Van Voorhis Morgantown, West Virginia 26506 304-293-9095 (o) 304-293-3939 (f) _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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Re: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan
by Frank Gmeindl 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

Colin, Thanks for your encouraging response. Sometimes limited exposure enables a unique perspective. I'm glad you joined the Bicycle Boar and value your participation. If city council denies the Bicycle Plan, we will find out why and make adjustments until we can move forward. We can always accomplish something positive for cycling even if it's not exactly what we have in the plan now. Frank On Jan 13, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Colin Dierman wrote: > Good Morning Frank, i reviewed your presentation and with the limited exposure i have to this process, it looks good. What happens if council denies the plan? Not that i think they would, just curious...colin > > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: "Frank Gmeindl" <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> > Sent 1/12/2012 2:58:43 PM > To: "Bicycle Board" <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> > Subject: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan > > Bicycle Board Members, > > Please find attached, a draft presentation of the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan to the City Council that is schedule for January 31. Please review it and reply to all with comments to improve it or your concurrence with it. I currently contains 9 short slides that I think I can present in the 5-minutes I expect to have to present it. > > The attached is in ppt format. Please let me know if you have any trouble opening it. I'll work with you to get it to you in a format that you can view it. > > Frank D. Gmeindl > Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board > LCI #1703 > 491 WilsonAvenue > Morgantown, WV 26501 > 304-376-0446 > Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles > > > _______________________________________________ > Bikeboard mailing list > Bikeboard(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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January Bicycle Board Minutes
by Elizabeth Shogren 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Attached, please find the January BB minutes. Hope you all had a pleasant Martin Luther King Day. Betsy Shogren

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MEBEP Final Report
by Frank Gmeindl 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

BB Education Team members, Please make the MEBEP final report compelling to funding agencies to give us more money. In Dropbox at http://db.tt/GECf1Z5D, please find a first draft of the Morgantown Effective Bicycling Education Program final report. I think I've done a fair job of documenting what we've done but I need your help to make the report compel granting agencies to give us more money to continue the education component of our bicycle plan. Don't let the size of the document scare you. It's mostly pictures. I would appreciate your reviewing the whole report and indicating anything I missed or anything to make it better. I think the Executive Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations sections are particularly weak. I especially need your help in those sections. Please reply to all. The sooner, the better. It would be nice to have this finalized before we go before City Council January 31. Frank

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Re: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan
by Chip Wamsley 13 Jan '12

13 Jan '12

Frank, It looks good. Leaving the cost estimates open is good, as we can waste too much time developing cost estimates that will most likely be outdated by the time council is ready to implement them. I don't think that will hinder getting future funding. Chip -----Original Message----- From: "Frank Gmeindl" <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> Sent 1/12/2012 10:01:00 PM To: "Chet Parsons" <chetparsons(a)gmail.com> Cc: "Bicycle Board" <bikeboard(a)cheat.org> Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan On Jan 12, 2012, at 9:54 PM, Chet Parsons wrote: I approve doing things however Terrence wants to proceed. Thanks, Chet! Terrence is very receptive and rational. If the BB recommends an alternative approach, on behalf of the BB, I would present it to him as long as I had a good rationale and BB consensus. Thanks for all the hard work Frank! You're so welcome! Thanks for the acknowledgement! Chet On Thu, Jan 12, 2012 at 9:48 PM, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> wrote: On Jan 12, 2012, at 3:46 PM, Graber, Stephen wrote: I will try to find time to consider this in more detail but the thing I wondered about right off the bat is whether or not Council would want a list of what's been implemented and what still needs to be implemented. None of the proposed actions have been implemented. Have all Council members seen the plan? Wes Nugent by virtue of his being the City Council member on the Traffic Commission received the Plan. I have not sent it to any other councilors. When I discussed the presentation with Terrence, who agreed to join me in delivering the presentation, he said that we would hand out hard copies of the plan to the councilors during the presentation. DOES THE BICYCLE BOARD RECOMMEND OTHERWISE? Getting money to do these things is going to be the problem so giving them some idea of the scope of the initiatives might be useful from their perspective. As stated in the presentation, the Plan classifies the actions as Policy/Administration and Construction and classifies the Construction actions as Large and Small. The presentation also states that cost estimates still have to be developed. ------------------------------------------- Stephen G. Graber Biochem & Mol Pharmacology PO Box 9142, HSN-3122 West Virginia University Morgantown, WV 26506-9142 phone: 304-293-2305 ------ _0 ------ _ \<,_ ---- (*)/ (*) From: bikeboard-bounces(a)cheat.org [bikeboard-bounces(a)cheat.org] On Behalf Of Frank Gmeindl [fgmeindl(a)gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, January 12, 2012 2:58 PM To: Bicycle Board Subject: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan Bicycle Board Members, Please find attached, a draft presentation of the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan to the City Council that is schedule for January 31. Please review it and reply to all with comments to improve it or your concurrence with it. I currently contains 9 short slides that I think I can present in the 5-minutes I expect to have to present it. The attached is in ppt format. Please let me know if you have any trouble opening it. I'll work with you to get it to you in a format that you can view it. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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Fwd: Crossroads for Morgantown Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety-public health issue
by Frank Gmeindl 13 Jan '12

13 Jan '12

Perhaps someone with an in at NIOSH could introduce Cammie to Confident City Cycling? Any volunteers? Begin forwarded message: > From: "Reger-Nash, Bill" <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu> > Date: January 13, 2012 1:32:49 PM EST > To: "Menendez, Cammie Chaumont (CDC/NIOSH/DSR)" <fxf8(a)cdc.gov> > Cc: Bill Austin <baustin(a)labyrinth.net>, Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com>, "Reger-Nash, Bill" <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, "Nutter, Roy" <Roy.Nutter(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com> > Subject: Crossroads for Morgantown Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety-public health issue > > Cammie, > > Thank you for your response. Indeed bicycle safety is a major concern. This is critical. > > Pls send an email to MPO Director Bill Austin (copied), the Morgantown City Council (see below), Chair of the Morgantown Traffic Commission Roy Nutter (copied), the Chair of the Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board Frank Gmeindl (copied), and the Monongalia County Commission (see below) expressing your concerns. > > You can send information to the commission at http://www.co.monongalia.wv.us/cont.html. > > The Morgantown City Council addresses are: citycouncilward1@cityofmorgantown.org;citycouncilward2@cityofmorgantown.org; citycouncilward3(a)cityofmorgantown.org; citycouncilward4@cityofmorgantown.org;citycouncilward5@cityofmorgantown.org; citycouncilward7(a)cityofmorgantown.org > > Be well. > > Bill Reger-Nash, EdD > West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine > One Medical Center Drive, Suite 3812E > Morgantown, WV 26506-9190 > > Office Phone: 304-293-0763 > Cell Phone: 304-685-6740 > Fax: 304-293-6685 > > Email: wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu > > Departmental webpage: www.hsc.wvu.edu/cmed > Bill Reger-Nash webpage: www.hsc.wvu.edu/cmed/wreger/index.asp > > Wheeling Walks > Walk 30 to 60 minutes daily. > Out the door for 30 or more! gn2001 > > > From: Menendez, Cammie Chaumont (CDC/NIOSH/DSR) [mailto:fxf8@cdc.gov] > Sent: Friday, January 13, 2012 1:11 PM > To: Reger-Nash, Bill > Subject: RE: Crossroads for Morgantown Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety-public health issue > > Hi, Bill – this is something I feel strongly about as I have recently become a bike rider on the rail trail and would like to commute to work by bike but am currently too scared. Unfortunately, I am out of town on the 23rd and 24th. Is there anything I can do to help you? > > Cammie Chaumont Menendez, PhD, MPH, MS > Epidemiologist > Centers for Disease Control and Prevention > National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health > 1095 Willowdale Road, MS 1811 > Morgantown, West Virginia, 26505 > phone: 304.285.6233 > fax: 304.285.6235 > CMenendez(a)cdc.gov > From: CMED Faculty Listserv [mailto:CMED-FACULTY@LISTS.HSC.WVU.EDU] On Behalf Of Reger-Nash, Bill > Sent: Friday, January 13, 2012 1:05 PM > To: CMED-FACULTY(a)LISTS.HSC.WVU.EDU > Subject: Crossroads for Morgantown Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety-public health issue > > Students, faculty, staff, and friends of public health: > > We are at a crossroads for transportation and public health. The Morgantown area traffic congestion continues to increase, our air quality is borderline non compliant, and walking/bicycling are not always safe or easy. > > There are critical upcoming meetings concerning walking and bicycle safety for the Morgantown area. The community needs to make walking and bicycle safety a priority because of the public health implications. An extra 15 minutes of daily physical activity for a year represents approximately 5 lbs of fat burned for the average American adult. Let’s do what we can to make our community less car dependent for the long term. We will all breathe easier, enjoy better health, and have more prosperity. > > 1) MILE GROUND PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY: Jan 24th 4-7 pm Easton Elementary School cafeteria – West Virginia Department of Highways presentation of preferred redesign of our infamous Mile Ground. My understanding is that their preferred alternative is NOT friendly to bicycles and pedestrians. PLEASE attend and express your concerns. > > 2) REGIONAL LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN: Jan 25th 7-9 pm South Middle School & Jan 26th 7-9 North Elementary School. These are opportunities for community input on the long-range transportation plan (LRTP). I have attached a two-page flyer. You can also visit http://www.crossroadsmon.com/. This is CRITICAL. WHY? As I've come to learn, all transportation projects using FEDERAL dollars must be approved by the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). This is our chance to help make the Morgantown and Mon County environment more pedestrian and bicycle friendly, and less car dependent. As a community, we can place emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle projects in the long range plan. If we succeed, then all projects should be completed in accordance with our wishes. With the support of the Greater Morgantown MPO, we have conducted preliminary pedestrian and bicycle counts and have begun to develop a data base to identify critical areas. Mr. Bill Austin, the executive director of the MPO, is a great ally to our efforts. He needs our support at these meetings. > > Let me know if you have any questions. > > Be well. > > Bill Reger-Nash, EdD > West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine > One Medical Center Drive, Suite 3812E > Morgantown, WV 26506-9190 > > Office Phone: 304-293-0763 > Cell Phone: 304-685-6740 > Fax: 304-293-6685 > > Email: wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu > > Departmental webpage: www.hsc.wvu.edu/cmed > Bill Reger-Nash webpage: www.hsc.wvu.edu/cmed/wreger/index.asp > > Wheeling Walks > Walk 30 to 60 minutes daily. > Out the door for 30 or more! gn2001 > >

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Fwd: Extremely important upcoming meetings + other updates
by Frank Gmeindl 13 Jan '12

13 Jan '12

Begin forwarded message: > From: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > Date: January 13, 2012 12:07:07 PM EST > To: Bill Reger-Nash <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Bob Anderson <randerson(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Christiaan Abildso <cgabildso(a)mail.wvu.edu>, David Small <dsmall1(a)mix.wvu.edu>, Dwight Harshbarger <dwight.harshbarger(a)gmail.com>, George Lilley <mgranlil(a)frontier.com>, Ilana Chertok <ichertok(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Jan Derry <jderry(a)nwvcil.org>, Jimmie Simmons <Jsimmons2642(a)yahoo.com>, Margaret Stout <Margaret.Stout(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Maria Smith <mariasmith(a)busride.org>, Martha Summers <msummers(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Mary Gutmann <maryg1010(a)comcast.net>, Michael Graham <migraham(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Regina Mayolo <reginam(a)verizon.net>, Sarah Bias <sarahbias(a)gmail.com>, Stan Cohen <Stanley.Cohen(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Tom Bias <tbias(a)hsc.wvu.edu>, Angela Wiley <wileya120(a)gmail.com>, Bill Austin <baustin(a)labyrinth.net>, Claire Chantler <cchantler(a)nwvcil.org>, Damien Davis <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Ella Belling <ella(a)montrails.org>, Frank Gmeindl <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, Hugh Kierig <Hugh.Kierig(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Jim Rye <Jim.Rye(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org>, Josh Woods <joshua.woods(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Kevin Leyden <Kevin.Leyden(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Matt Cross <crossnyc(a)hotmail.com>, Michael Simms <michael.d.simms(a)gmail.com>, Mike Breiding <mike(a)EpicRoadTrips.us>, Nick Hein <info(a)positivespin.org>, Roy Nutter <roy.nutter(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Sera Janson Zegre <sera(a)downstreamstrategies.com> > Subject: Extremely important upcoming meetings + other updates > Reply-To: Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board <walkmgw(a)yahoo.com> > > All - Please devote some time to digesting this message and strongly consider attending some upcoming meetings... > > First - there are some critical upcoming meetings re: transportation infrastructure at which the pedestrian and bicycle communities should have a strong force and loud voice. > 1) Jan 24th 4-7 pm Easton ES cafeteria - WVDOH presentation of preferred redesign of Mileground. My understanding is that their preferred alternative is NOT our preferred alternative. PLEASE attend and express any concern via the format they use. > 2) Jan 25th 7-9pm South MS & Jan 26th 7-9 North ES - MPO, City, and Star City community input on long-range transportation plan (LRTP) - 2 pg flyer attached and visit http://www.crossroadsmon.com/. This is CRITICAL. Why? As I've come to learn, all transportation projects using FEDERAL dollars must be approved by the MPO (upon which I serve on the Citizens Advisory Committe) using, as the main factor, whether the project fits into the LRTP. If we, as a community, put a MAJOR influence on pedestrian and bicycle projects in the LRTP, then all projects should be completed in accordance with our wishes. With the MPO's support, we've already been able to work into the LRTP money/time to conduct pedestrian and bicycle counts. The process works, let's voice our opinions. Bill Austin, the executive director of the MPO, is a great ally > > Second - I have found out that Delegate Guthrie (Kanawha) is again sponsoring Complete Streets legislation, with our own Del Fleischauer as co-sponsor. I am going to meeting with Angela Vance of the WV AARP in Charleston on the 19th during the launch event for the WV Physical Activity Plan (http://www.wvphysicalactivity.org/) to marshal support for the legislation. This may be a great time to make use of any contacts with state legislators, lobbyists for children (or the state superintendant, Jorea Marple, who is speaking at the event on the 19th) or those with disabilities that you have. Attached is a brief list of benefits of CS from the web, where there are a host of fact sheets related to benefits for specific demographic segments (eg, children, people w/disabilities), econ, etc (eg, econ benefits, gas prices, public transit, health): http://www.completestreets.org/complete-streets-fundamentals/factsheets/ > > Who's on Third - the flyer re: snow removal that has gone out in recent weeks is attached (thank you Damien) > > Fourth - enjoy the snow (Toboggan Festival at Chestnut Ridge Park tomorrow) > This is what happens when I attend 3, 2+ hour meetings in a week - all very beneficial and positive meetings, by the way. > Shovel away! > Christiaan > > Walk more, safely > > Morgantown Pedestrian Safety Board > Christiaan Abildso, Chair > Bill Reger-Nash, Vice Chair > http://www.morgantown.com/ped-safety-board.htm

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Re: [Bikeboard] Morgantown Bicycle Plan
by Frank Gmeindl 12 Jan '12

12 Jan '12

Damien, I received your voicemail suggesting that I delete the lines about achieving the BFC award. In v02 attached, they are deleted. Thanks for your prompt response! Frank

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Fwd: Crossroads - It's Time to Chart our Future
by Frank Gmeindl 12 Jan '12

12 Jan '12

Begin forwarded message: > From: Damien Davis <ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Date: January 12, 2012 10:48:33 AM EST > To: mmccabe(a)cityofmorgantown.org, wes(a)wnugent.com, Jeff Mikorski <jmikorski(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, j4im3s(a)gmail.com, "mckain, david" <david.mckain(a)gmail.com>, "Henry, Adam" <Adam.Henry(a)mail.wvu.edu>, christophergluck(a)gmail.com, psteel(a)access.k12.wv.us, "Gmeindl, Frank" <frank.gmeindl(a)comcast.net>, Andrea Soccorsi <Andrea.Soccorsi(a)Mail.WVU.edu>, Barbara Shellito <bshellito(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Christiaan Abildso <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu>, Ken Martis <kmartis(a)wvu.edu>, Margaret Roberts <Margaretormike(a)aol.com>, Mike Lantz <mlantz(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, Roy Nutter <rnutter(a)wvu.edu>, Terry Hough <though(a)cityofmorgantown.org>, wwyant(a)hsc.wvu.edu > Cc: Christopher Fletcher <cfletcher(a)cityofmorgantown.org> > Subject: Crossroads - It's Time to Chart our Future > Reply-To: ddavis(a)cityofmorgantown.org > > Traffic Commission Members: > > The City of Morgantown is in the process of performing an update of the Comprehensive Plan in coordination with Star City’s preparation of a Comprehensive Plan and the MPO’s Long-Range Transportation Plan update. This joint planning project is called“Crossroads”. > > In order to ensure that our region is working with the same vision, "Crossroads" is developing a “Regional Vision” that will include a number of community participation opportunities. Several focused stakeholder group interviews with community leaders are being scheduled to obtain key perspectives including business, development, education, neighborhoods, real estate, etc. > > Additionally, two public "Crossroads Idea Gathering Meetings" are scheduled for Wednesday, January 25 at South Middle School and Thursday, January 26 at North Elementary. Both meetings begin at 7:00 PM. These public meetings will provide all interested parties an opportunity to participate in small group facilitated discussions concerning our region's "Strong Places, Weak Places". > > I have attached a flyer announcing the public "Crossroads Idea Gathering Meetings" and have two requests of our Traffic Commission members: > > 1) Please make every effort to attend one of these public "Crossroads Idea Gather Meetings". > > 2) Please circulate the attached flyer widely to friends, neighbors, and associates. > > A public awareness campaign will be launched in the coming days, but the most successful means of getting folks to attend is word-of-mouth and emails. > > Thank you in advance for your assistance. > > Respectfully, > > Christopher M. Fletcher, AICP > Director of Development Services > 389 Spruce Street > Morgantown, WV 26505 > (o) 304-284-7413 > (f) 304-284-7534 > (c) 304-906-7843 > cfletcher(a)cityofmorgantown.org > >

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Bicycle Friendly Community application
by Frank Gmeindl 12 Jan '12

12 Jan '12

Jeff, Please find attached a MS Word version of the Bicycle Board's proposed application to the League of American Bicyclists for recognition of Morgantown as a Bicycle Friendly Community. The Bicycle Board thoroughly reviewed and approved this application. Last night, I presented the application to the Traffic Commission and asked the commissioners to send me comments or changes at their convenience. The deadline for submission to LAB is February 17 but I'd like to submit it no later than Feb. 10 to ensure that they receive it. I respectfully request that you review the attached, mark it up using Comments and Track Changes and return it to me at your earliest convenience. I would especially request that you carefully review and update pages 1-3 that provide the community profile. As we've discussed, the actual application must be submitted to an on-line form. Click here to see a pdf version. At, http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/communities/apply… I have already created an account under the name of MorgantownWV. I am planning to transcribe the data from your approved version of the attached to the on-line form but if you want to do it, please call me and I'll tell you the password or, you could create another account. If and when I receive any comments or suggested changes from Traffic Commissioners, I will send them to you immediately upon receipt. Thanks for working with us to make Morgantown a Bicycle Friendly Community! Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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MPO visioning meetings
by Frank Gmeindl 11 Jan '12

11 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Tonight, the Traffic Commission unanimously approved the Greater Morgantown Bicycle Plan. Attached is a flier describing public information gathering meetings the MPO has scheduled for Jan. 25 and 26. It would be good if people knowledgeable about bicycling attended. This could be an opportunity to interact with the community about making Greater Morgantown a community whose residents can enjoy bicycling safely and fearlessly anywhere, anytime for any reason. Also, remember the Mileground Public Meeting January 24th at Easton School from 4 until 7. . Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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College Cycling Course
by Ryan Post 11 Jan '12

11 Jan '12

We're excited to be able to offer a combined TS101 and Commuter class for 1 credit hour this Spring 2012 semester as PE172-Cycling Basics. It is also available to the public as a Lifetime Activities class. The classes are being offered Tuesdays and Thursdays 12-1:15PM March 19- April 28 at the Coliseum (CRN 18713), and a weekend course March 10-11 at the Coliseum 9am-~5pm (CRN 18714). Information for Public registration via Lifetime Activities can be found <http://cpass.wvu.edu/r/download/117329> HERE, course is listed on page 24. Since this just got finalized, and most students are done registering, we could use some help getting the word out to anyone who might be interested in taking the course. Learn riding skills and crash avoidance maneuvers; how to control situations in traffic and ride more confidently; bicycle maintenance including shifting and braking adjustments and changing a tire; proper clothing and equipment selection. Completion earns two League of American Bicyclists certificates: Traffic Skills 101 and Commuter. Bicycle required.

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Input from cyclists on Route 7
by D. Williams 09 Jan '12

09 Jan '12

Hello Everyone, I am presenting next week on the truck traffic impacts on Route 7 through downtown. Do any of you take this route regularly and have a comment? Do you have any images or assessments that you would like mentioned? I have some data from cyclists on Brockway, but that is not the focus of this presentation. I do think it is important to mention however as I counted 4 cyclists during my last field survey. This is not a full impact study, but I want to reach out to you for accounts and occurrences that you have witnessed on this commuting route. Thank you for your input and additions to this research. Have a nice day. Danielle N. Williams Assistant to the Director TDM Coordinator Morgantown Monongalia MPO 82 Hart Field Road Suite 105 Morgantown, WV 26505 Office: 304-413-0297 FAX: 304-291-9573 Mobile: 571-213-1336 Commuterchoices(a)gmail.com http://plantogether.org/commuterchoices.html "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead "Planning is about leading, innovating and inspiring the next generation." -APA, Communication Bootcamp

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Re: [Bikeboard] FW: Bikes Belong Coalition
by Chip Wamsley 09 Jan '12

09 Jan '12

Derek. Thanks for the heads up. MRTC has already gotten a grant (the largest awarded in 2010) for some erosion control maintenance. I believe the bike board applied for one for the climbing lane. A lot of the money comes from suppliers and dealers in the bike industry. We donate a percentage of our helmet sales and certain bike sales to bikes belong for these grants, so its good to see some of the money come back to Morgantown. Chip -----Original Message----- From: "Derek Springston" <dspringston(a)gmail.com> Sent 1/9/2012 9:58:34 AM To: Martin(a)DeckersCreek.org, bikeboard(a)cheat.org Cc: ella(a)montrails.org, Sarah(a)DeckersCreek.org, Amanda(a)Cheat.org, Pamela(a)DeckersCreek.org Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] FW: Bikes Belong Coalition Martin, Thanks for sending this! Since I am on the Bike Board, I am forwarding this on to the rest of the group. I've also replied all to find out if anyone else you've emailed is pursuing this Grant in our area. Bike Board members, Are you familiar with the Bike Belong Grants Program? Have we ever pursued this in the past? Thanks, ~Derek On Mon, Jan 9, 2012 at 8:58 AM, Derek Springston <guitardeek(a)hotmail.com> wrote: “Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells Date: Sun, 8 Jan 2012 18:50:35 -0500 To: ella(a)montrails.org; Amanda(a)Cheat.org; Sarah(a)DeckersCreek.org; Pamela(a)DeckersCreek.org; guitardeek(a)hotmail.com From: Martin(a)DeckersCreek.org Subject: FYI Bicycle Advocacy and Facilities Supported Bikes Belong Coalition The goal of the Bikes Belong Coalition, sponsored by the American bicycle industry, is putting more people on bicycles more often. The Bikes Belong Grants Program provides support for projects that leverage federal funding and build momentum for bicycling in communities across the U.S. Funded projects can include bike paths and rail trails, as well as bike parks, mountain bike trails, BMX facilities, and bicycle advocacy initiatives. The focus of the facility grant category is to connect existing facilities or create new biking opportunities. The advocacy grant category seeks to support large-scale, innovative, replicable advocacy initiatives that significantly increase ridership and improve conditions for bicycling in big U.S. cities. The application deadline is February 29, 2012. Visit the Coalition';s website to submit an online application. Martin Christ Water remediation director Friends of Deckers Creek PO Box 877 Dellslow, WV 26531 Tel. (304) 292-3970 Cell (304) 692-6278 Fax (304) 292-5070 Email Martin(a)DeckersCreek.org _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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Re: [Bikeboard] FW: Bikes Belong Coalition
by Derek Springston 09 Jan '12

09 Jan '12

Martin, Thanks for sending this! Since I am on the Bike Board, I am forwarding this on to the rest of the group. I've also replied all to find out if anyone else you've emailed is pursuing this Grant in our area. Bike Board members, Are you familiar with the Bike Belong Grants Program? Have we ever pursued this in the past? Thanks, ~Derek On Mon, Jan 9, 2012 at 8:58 AM, Derek Springston <guitardeek(a)hotmail.com>wrote: > > > *“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle I no longer despair for the > future of the human race.” -H.G. Wells > * > > ------------------------------ > Date: Sun, 8 Jan 2012 18:50:35 -0500 > To: ella(a)montrails.org; Amanda(a)Cheat.org; Sarah(a)DeckersCreek.org; > Pamela(a)DeckersCreek.org; guitardeek(a)hotmail.com > From: Martin(a)DeckersCreek.org > Subject: > > FYI > > > Bicycle Advocacy and Facilities Supported > *Bikes Belong Coalition > <http://www.bikesbelong.org/grants/apply-for-a-grant/>*The goal of the > Bikes Belong Coalition, sponsored by the American bicycle industry, is > putting more people on bicycles more often. The Bikes Belong Grants Program > provides support for projects that leverage federal funding and build > momentum for bicycling in communities across the U.S. Funded projects can > include bike paths and rail trails, as well as bike parks, mountain bike > trails, BMX facilities, and bicycle advocacy initiatives. The focus of the > facility grant category is to connect existing facilities or create new > biking opportunities. The advocacy grant category seeks to support > large-scale, innovative, replicable advocacy initiatives that significantly > increase ridership and improve conditions for bicycling in big U.S. cities. > The application deadline is February 29, 2012. Visit the Coalition';s > website to submit an online application. > > > Martin Christ > Water remediation director > Friends of Deckers Creek > PO Box 877 > Dellslow, WV 26531 > > Tel. (304) 292-3970 > Cell (304) 692-6278 > Fax (304) 292-5070 > Email Martin(a)DeckersCreek.org >

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Fwd: WVU EmployeeFest 2012
by Frank Gmeindl 06 Jan '12

06 Jan '12

Here's a ripe banana for Thursday:) Begin forwarded message: > From: "Hugh Kierig" <Hugh.Kierig(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Date: January 3, 2012 3:13:36 PM EST > To: "Frank Gmeindl" <fgmeindl(a)gmail.com>, "Christiaan Abildso" <Christiaan.Abildso(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Subject: Fwd: WVU EmployeeFest 2012 > > Frank / Christiaan > > I have ben contacted regarding the 2012 Employee Fest to be held on Wednesday, April 12th. They are taking reservations for booths for this event. Please let me know if the Bike Board or Ped Board would be interested in being involved with this event. > > > Hugh E. Kierig, AICP, Director > Department of Transportation and Parking > West Virginia University > Post Office Box 6561 > 1112 Van Voorhis > Morgantown, West Virginia 26506 > 304-293-9095 (o) > 304-293-3939 (f) > > > From: "Toni Christian" <Toni.Christian(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Date: December 22, 2011 11:29:45 AM EST > To: "Hugh Kierig" <Hugh.Kierig(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Cc: "Debra Stevens" <Debra.Stevens(a)mail.wvu.edu> > Subject: WVU EmployeeFest 2012 > > > Dear Hugh, > > As a participant in last year’s event, the West Virginia University Division of Human Resources would like to offer your unit/department the opportunity to be an exhibitor for WVU EmployeeFest 2012: Benefits & Wellness Expo in advance of opening up registration to the community. As you are aware, this all-day event will be held at the Erickson Alumni Center on the WVU Evansdale Campus in Morgantown, WV on Thursday, April 12, 2012. It is our goal to make the Benefits and Wellness Expo a valuable service to WVU employees by educating participants about WVU benefits and health/wellness opportunities through a variety of health screenings, demonstrations, exhibitor’s tables, informational lectures and workshops. > > This will be a wonderful opportunity for the WVU Transportation & Parking Office and the Morgantown Bicycle Board to connect with many WVU faculty and staff in a positive environment focused on health and wellness. West Virginia University employs over 5,000 benefits eligible employees on the Morgantown campus and we are expecting over 1,500 employees to attend the Expo. This year’s event will coincide with WVU Employee Benefits Open Enrollment (scheduled for the month of April) and will focus on several areas of wellness including mind, physical, and financial wellness. > > The WVU Transportation & Parking Office and the Morgantown Bicycle Board will be wonderful additions to this event and we are looking forward to working with you to make the WVU EmployeeFest 2012: Benefits & Wellness Expo an outstanding experience for WVU employees. > > Please feel free to contact me or Debra Stevens (Debra.Stevens(a)mail.wvu.edu) if you have any questions. > > RSVP requested by January 10, 2012. Registration information will be forwarded after RSVP. > > Look forward to hearing from you soon. > > Happy Holidays!!!! > > Toni > > >

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BFC application
by Frank Gmeindl 05 Jan '12

05 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Please join me in extending gratitude to Damien, Butch, gunnar, Hugh, Marilyn, Betsy and Ryan for what must have been many hours of challenging work completing their sections of the Bicycle Friendly Community award application. Please find attached, Bicycle Friendly Community Application_2011V01.doc. This document integrates all the inputs. Please review it in preparation for our meeting this Thursday when we will finalize it for submission to Jeff Mikorski. There are still some rough areas in it that are easy to find by looking for red text and comments in the margin. If you have solutions to any of those issues, please reply-all to this message with them. Also, please indicate anything that can be improved. The attached file is also in Dropbox at http://db.tt/epAJBA0V . If you accepted the invitation to share the folder, http://db.tt/72JvIyum in which the attached file resides, you can download it, modify it and upload it. If you do so, please use Track Changes and Comments so we can easily find the changes that you make. Printing 17 copies of the attached 37 page document will consume 629 sheets of paper and toner so I don't plan to ask Barbara to make 17 copies as usual. If you want a paper copy of the application on Thursday, please reply before noon tomorrow. Keep warm and see you Thursday! Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Re: [Bikeboard] (Nearly) Final version of "Let's Start Biking"
by director 05 Jan '12

05 Jan '12

Good afternoon, In case this message was buried in your email during the holiday break, I would ask you to please review the video at the YouTube link given and return comments to me by tomorrow. I've only received one comment so far (Thanks Danielle) I will try and work with Robby to get them incorporated and deliver the final video sometime next week. Thank you, Nick Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 803 East Brockway Ave Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 -----Original Message----- From: "director" <director(a)positivespin.org> Sent 12/27/2011 12:00:37 PM To: "Bike Board" <bikeboard(a)cheat.org>, "Robert Rexroad" <robrexroad(a)gmail.com>, "arathy" <arathyn(a)gmail.com>, jmikorski(a)cityofmorgantown.org Subject: [Bikeboard] (Nearly) Final version of "Let's Start Biking" Good morning, Robby sent me the link to the latest video of "Let's Start Biking" yesterday and I've previewed it and am passing it on for review by the Bicycle Board. I've found 2 minor corrections to be made, but would like to get everybody's inputs and send them all to Rob at once to make the best use of his time. If possible please make the edits in the YouTube comments so everyone can see them and avoid duplicates (150character limit - one edit/comment please) - this requires that you have an account (your Google sign-in). Note that this video is posted so it doesn't show up in a search, you can only view it if you type in the link. Otherwise feel free to email me with your edits and I'll put them on the YouTube page with your name for credit. You can follow up with a call at 304-276-0213 if you think it needs discussion. I'll leave it open for comments for about 2 weeks (until Jan 10) to give everyone a chance to get back from holiday break. Then we should finally be able to release it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNlCoHGZqBI Total running time is 10:09 min Nick Hein LCI# 1705 Director, Positive Spin 803 East Brockway Ave Morgantown, WV ph 304-276-0213 _______________________________________________ Bikeboard mailing list Bikeboard(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard

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Re: [Bikeboard] Input from cyclists on Route 7
by Frank Gmeindl 03 Jan '12

03 Jan '12

Danielle, I didn't see that anybody replied to your request. I've held back because as Chairman of the Bicycle Board, I didn't want to influence anybody else's response but now I will respond. I ride Rt. 7 through downtown on average several times each week. In general, I find the cars more trouble than the trucks. While the trucks seem a lot scarier, they'll usually just trundle along behind me while cars will occasionally pass me closely even when I'm in the middle of my lane. Going out or in Beechurst, the going is easy when the traffic is heavy because everyone is going at or below bicycle speed. (I wonder if the WVDOT traffic study down there considered flow if the speed limit were enforced at 10 mph and all the red lights removed or set to truly balance intersection demand in real time. It would sure make cycling smoother through there.) When the Beechurst traffic is lighter, motorists seem to be less patient and when they see there's maybe enough room to squeeze around, they'll do it. Again, since I always ride near the middle of the lane, the trucks almost never try to pass me but the cars more frequently do. Occasionally, a truck driver will blow his horn at me but I ignore it since I'm doing exactly what any other slow moving vehicle would do there. I think some motor vehicle drivers think bicyclists should be on the sidewalk since so many do ride the sidewalk down there despite its illegality. I can usually go 15-20 mph through there but again, if the speed limit were 10 mph and enforced, cycling would be fine, trucks or no trucks. I know you said that you're not interested in Brockway but IMHO, that's worse than going through town. Either climbing up from Studio 101 (at Decker Avenue) to around Hackney St. where Brockway levels off, or climbing the Hogback turn and then keeping the hammer down where the cars and trucks can go faster is more likely to elicit horn blows and epithets than downtown. Despite the 25 mph speed limit there, this old guy can hardly get up either of those hills at more than about 10 mph. Again, if the speed limit were 10 mph or even 15 mph AND ENFORCED cycling there would be no problem, trucks or no trucks. I would also suggest you acknowledge the damage that the trucks do to the road which in some cases can present a bigger hazard to the cyclist than the vehicle itself. For a long time, the right turn at Walnut and Don Knotts had such holes and humps that an inattentive cyclist could end up on his or her head. Sure, now it's been repaved but how long will that last? I also drive my car along these same routes and find most offensive trucks taking up more than one lane and driving to the left of the center lane. Last week, as I was descending Brockway from Overdale, as I was about to enter the right hand curve in front of Studio 101, a truck came around the bend approximately 3 feet in my lane forcing me to jam on the breaks. I look forward to your presentation to the Traffic Commission on Jan. 11. Frank On Jan 3, 2012, at 11:27 AM, D. Williams wrote: > Thanks, Frank. See you then. > > D. Williams > > Commuterchoices(a)gmail.com > > http://commuterchoices.com > > “Planning is about leading, innovating and inspiring the next generation.” –APA, Communication Bootcamp > > > From: Frank Gmeindl [mailto:frank.gmeindl@comcast.net] > Sent: Thursday, December 29, 2011 6:02 PM > To: D. Williams > Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] Input from cyclists on Route 7 > > Danielle, > > It is my understanding that the next Traffic Commission meeting is January 11. I am a member of the Traffic Commission. While the TC normally meets the first Wednesday of each month, at the December meeting, the Commissioners decided to postpone the January 4 meeting one week because of the Orange Bowl that occurs January 4 and I suppose they want to watch it. > > Frank > > On Dec 29, 2011, at 3:55 PM, D. Williams wrote: > > > Traffic Commission and then briefing the Ped. Safety the following week. > > D. Williams > > Commuterchoices(a)gmail.com > > http://commuterchoices.com > > “Planning is about leading, innovating and inspiring the next generation.” –APA, Communication Bootcamp > > > From: Chet Parsons [mailto:chetparsons@gmail.com] > Sent: Thursday, December 29, 2011 3:48 PM > To: D. Williams > Cc: bikeboard(a)cheat.org > Subject: Re: [Bikeboard] Input from cyclists on Route 7 > > Danielle - Who are you presenting to? This might help as people can shape their comments to fit the audience. Thanks and good luck > > Chet > > On Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 3:42 PM, D. Williams <dwilliams(a)labyrinth.net> wrote: > Hello Everyone, > > I am presenting next week on the truck traffic impacts on Route 7 through downtown. Do any of you take this route regularly and have a comment? Do you have any images or assessments that you would like mentioned? I have some data from cyclists on Brockway, but that is not the focus of this presentation. I do think it is important to mention however as I counted 4 cyclists during my last field survey. This is not a full impact study, but I want to reach out to you for accounts and occurrences that you have witnessed on this commuting route. > > Thank you for your input and additions to this research. > > Have a nice day. > > Danielle N. Williams > Assistant to the Director > TDM Coordinator > Morgantown Monongalia MPO > 82 Hart Field Road Suite 105 Morgantown, WV 26505 > Office: 304-413-0297 FAX: 304-291-9573 Mobile: 571-213-1336 > Commuterchoices(a)gmail.com > http://plantogether.org/commuterchoices.html > “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead > “Planning is about leading, innovating and inspiring the next generation.” > –APA, Communication Bootcamp > > > > _______________________________________________ > Bikeboard mailing list > Bikeboard(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard > > _______________________________________________ > Bikeboard mailing list > Bikeboard(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/bikeboard >

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Agenda for this Thursday
by Frank Gmeindl 01 Jan '12

01 Jan '12

Bicycle Board Members, Please find attached a suggested agenda for this Thursday's meeting. Please reply if you would like any changes. Frank D. Gmeindl Chairman, Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board LCI #1703 491 WilsonAvenue Morgantown, WV 26501 304-376-0446 Cyclists fare best when they act and are treated as drivers of vehicles

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Bikeboard January 2012