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RTC Report: Pedestrian and Bike Traffic on The Rise in the Truckee Meadows

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Image courtesy of RTC.

A new report by the Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County shows that pedestrian, bicycle and wheelchair activity is on the rise in Washoe County, but it’s a trend that is presenting both opportunities and challenges.

The RTC’s Planning Director Amy Cummings said that infrastructure planning has increased opportunities for bike and pedestrian activity.

“We’re excited about this data because it shows that the infrastructure investments in bicycle and pedestrian facilities is really paying off, and we are seeing a steady increase in bicycle and pedestrian activity in the region,” she said. “Of course, that’s great for our community because it improves our air quality and improves the health of our community overall.”

The RTC’s report shows that while these modes of transportation are increasing, there are some concerns, such as bicyclists engaging in unsafe riding practices, and an ongoing problem with vehicle collisions.

“Certainly there’s still work to be done in that area, to really emphasize riding the right way, wearing a helmet (and) if you’re on a bike, make sure you have lights on your bike,” she said. “It’s the same with walking, especially in the evening, to wear reflective clothing (and) put lights on your jacket, your purse and your bag to make sure you are seen.”

Clarification (Jan. 1, 2016): The above quote is in response to the issue of bicyclist practices identified in the report as being unsafe. It is encouraged that readers read the report for themselves at the link below. The report does not imply that drivers are free from blame in vehicle/bike collisions.

Download the report here: http://www.rtcwashoe.com/Planning/documents/Annual%20Report%202015%20FINAL.pdf

Bob Conrad
Bob Conradhttp://thisisreno.com
Bob Conrad is publisher, editor and co-founder of This Is Reno. He has served in communications positions for various state agencies and earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2011. He is also a part time instructor at UNR and sits on the boards of the Nevada Press Association and Nevada Open Government Coalition.

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