ST PAUL, Minn. — The city of St. Paul has moved one step closer to updating its bike plan.
The plan includes locations of bikeways and paths for bicycle riders and was originally introduced in 2015.
Jimmy Shoemaker works for the city's public works department and has been working on the plan for nearly two years.
"The bike plan will always be the thing that we reference, so it's very important," he said.
There are already hundreds of miles of bike infrastructure in place, but this plan would add 119 more miles. As times change and the city grows, Shoemaker says it is time to update.
"From the current or 2015 plan, we are recommending many, many more miles of separated bikeways," he said.
Friday morning, that vision moved one step closer to reality. In a unanimous vote, the planning commission moved the plan along.
Next, staff will bring a new and final version to the transportation committee, planning commission, and eventually, the City Council for adoption.
"This is a way to attract new bicycle riders, so I'm really excited about the plan," Shoemaker said.
There are those on both sides of this – both for and against. Zack Mensinger with the St. Paul Bicycle Coalition has mixed ideas.
"It's about kind of creating accessibility and creating that opportunity for people to really make that choice that they want to make," Mensinger said. "I think that's really transformative when you have those kinds of things, that welcome people of all ages and ability."
Mensinger says the plan may not go far enough in his opinion—also a concern for some – the space that some areas of the bikeways would need.
Mensinger says he hears those concerns but disagrees.
"Everyone who wants to drive will still be fully able to drive," he said.
As for the cost, Shoemaker says they're unsure as of right now until a plan is approved. Regardless, he's excited for those looking to give these new parts a try, if this plan is approved.
"How do we keep up the network for those who have always been riding, but for people who are new or want to try it?" he said. "I think the bike plan kind of commits to that."
To read the proposed plan, click here.
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