The Ohio Department of Transportation will issue nearly $52 million in grants over the next four years to improve safety for bicycle and pedestrian traffic through the state’s Transportation Alternatives Program; supporting 44 projects in 33 counties.
[Above photo by Ohio DOT]
“The Transportation Alternatives Program makes vital investments to support safer, more connected spaces for walking and biking,” said Governor Mike DeWine (R) in a statement. “This program helps improve quality of life, enhance public safety, and build sustainable transportation networks that make our cities and towns stronger and more vibrant.”
The Ohio DOT noted that the TAP program provides funding for projects defined as transportation alternatives, including on- and off-road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure projects for improving access to public transportation and enhanced mobility, community improvement activities, recreational trails, and Safe-Routes-to-School projects.
Projects are selected based on committee recommendations and a scoring system with a focus on safety, connectivity, and preservation.
Additionally, the agency said it prioritized this round of TAP grants in areas of the state with high demand and need for walking and biking and implementation readiness – emphasizing both short-term infrastructure projects that could be delivered quickly as well as infrastructure projects of statewide significance
“Biking and walking are great modes of transportation that are not only fun, but foster connections, support local economies, and contribute to a healthier lifestyle,” added Pamela Boratyn, Ohio DOT director. “We are proud to do our part to support active transportation in Ohio.”
Other state departments of transportation are also working on similar bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure efforts as well.
For example, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is currently soliciting public feedback on bicycle, e-bike, and electric scooter usage as it begins updating its Statewide Bicycle+ System Plan.
Meanwhile, the Maryland Department of Transportation is currently planning the deployment of “quick-build” safety projects at six locations statewide
Those short-term projects target intersections or corridors with a history of traffic fatalities or crashes, using speed cushions, enhanced pedestrian crossings, lane narrowing, and traffic calming measures to improve safety for all roadway users – motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike.
Those “Complete Streets” themed projects, Maryland DOT said, allow it to test products and solutions that could boost safety in those corridors while providing more detailed data to support decisions for permanent installations statewide.
