Minutes 01/11/2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

January 11, 2000 Recommendation: · Adoption of a resolution to support the study and development of a regional bikeway to serve the cities of South Hampton Roads. Purpose and Need: · The cities of Portsmouth, Suffolk, Chesapeake, and Norfolk are exploring the feasibility of establishing a continuous paved bikeway from downtown Suffolk to Old Dominion and Norfolk State Universities. · The Portsmouth segment has been tentatively designated the "Trans-Portsmouth Regional Bikeway." · The bikeway is anticipated to begin at the City's boundary on Tyre Neck Road, cross the Elizabeth River at either the West Norfolk Bridge or the Churchland Bridge, and terminate at the High Street Landing. · The bikeway would utilize existing city streets and abandoned rights-of-way whenever possible. · Grant funds are available under the federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Program (ISTEA) which provides a 10% set aside for Enhancement Activities for projects such as commuter bikeways. Financial Impact: · A 20% local match would be required which can be satisfied by the provision of in-kind goods and services. Motion by Mr. Pitts, and seconded by Mr. Whitehurst, to adopt the following resolution, and was adopted by the following vote: "A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE STUDY AND DEVELOPMENT OF A REGIONAL BIKEWAY TO SERVE THE CITIES OF SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS. WHEREAS, several South Hampton Roads cities have been exploring the feasibility of developing a regional bikeway with a goal of providing a continuous paved connection from downtown Suffolk to Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University; and WHEREAS, the bikeway would serve as an alternate means of transportation for commuters and other travelers, thereby helping to alleviate road congestion; and WHEREAS, the bikeway would also constitute a source of recreation for the citizens of and visitors to South Hampton Roads; and WHEREAS, the City of Portsmouth desires to apply for grant funds under such programs as the federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Program (ISTEA) which allocates monies for alternative forms of transportation such as commuter bikeways; and WHEREAS, such grants require an expression of support from the local governing body. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Portsmouth, Virginia, that it supports the creation of a regional bikeway and that it authorizes the City Manager to submit such applications for grant funds as he deems in the best interest of the City and to take such further steps as are required in support thereof." Ayes: Benn, Griffin, Moody, Pitts, Robinett, Whitehurst, Holley Nays: None