8.1 SR 10-18-2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Consider Complete Streets Policies or Approaches Complete Streets is an urban planning concept dedicated to promoting the safe and accessible use of transportation infrastructure for all users. The policy seeks to incorpo- rate pedestrian, bicycle, and public transit facilities, when appropriate, into the design of a traditional street right- of-way (ROW). Common implementation practices include utilizing traffic calming infrastructure, ADA accessible sidewalks, and/or dedicated bicycle lanes. Enacting a Complete Streets policy or approach offers Elk River's elected officials a chance to better review capital improvements in the context of future planning. For instance, the design (or redesign) of any minor arterial or collector street could trigger an evaluation for recreational path opportunities. Adopted planning documents (e.g. the Trails Master Plan) should offer guidance in the deci- sion -making process. Elk River has several thoroughfares that would benefit by enhancing their respective pedestrian and bicycling amenities. Jackson Avenue is an important north -south route that facilitates travel to destination points including schools, Lion John Weicht Park, and downtown from resi- dential neighborhoods to the north. As a former MnDOT roadway added to the city's jurisdiction under the state's Turnback Program, Jackson Avenue features an expan- sive ROW, especially between School Street and Railroad Drive. Replacing the current parking striping with on -street bicycle lanes would encourage use of alternative modes of transportation to ease congestion constraints. Main Street Main Street is another candidate worthy for consideration of Complete Streets approaches. The "169 Redefine" project is expected to dramatically change the driver experience on Main Street; congestion levels should noticeably drop. At the same time, Main Street is presented with some redevelopment opportunities for more dense land uses. Future investments should focus on pedestrian safety moving west towards downtown. The segment is currently challenged along the northern portion of the roadway by a lack of sidewalks, which can force individuals to walk, unprotected, along the street. A combination of pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle -oriented functions could be served through this corridor. Complete Street Design An example of how a typical collector street could be reconfigured for complete streets principles is shown below. Typical Collector Street Complete Street Improvements Complete Streets � Potential Complete Streets 90 Transportation & Mobility Plan • Elk River Comprehensive Plan 101A-11aa9i1M0:LV/l: LVAN0101VA