The city of McMinnville is currently studying how to improve walking and bicycling in two areas of town and invites the community to provide input during the planning process.
There are two opportunities to get involved over the next several months: 1) an online survey and mapping option, and 2) attending one of the public meetings.
Stay tuned to this website, www.mcminnvilletn.gov, for updates regarding the project and specific dates and times for these comment opportunities.
One study area focuses on the neighborhoods on both sides of N. Chancery Street at Bobby Ray Elementary and down Garfield Street. The other study area focuses on the area south and east of downtown which connects Pepper Branch Park to downtown and then over to Rocket Park.
Through April 9, everyone is invited to comment on where there are trouble spots in the study areas for pedestrians and cyclists via an online survey and mapping tool available on the city website or Facebook page. Participants can also share what types of infrastructure would help make these areas more accessible and safer to families out walking, mothers with strollers, and kids pedaling to school or to the new Milner Recreation Center.
For folks who prefer conversation, they can attend a Virtual Open House on March 30 from 4 to 6 p.m. Participants will speak with staff and the designers of the plan to ask questions and share comments on the different study areas and preferences for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. More information is on the city website or individuals can call 473-1204 for further instructions to participate.
These plans will make recommendations for improving the safety and comfort of those walking or bicycling and city officials say feedback is important.
Community planner Katie Kemezis encourages residents to get involved, “Hearing from our citizens is critical. It ensures a bike/ pedestrian plan that tackles real challenges and proposes recommendations based on our community needs and wants.”
The city received funding from TDOT to study these areas last year through the Community Transportation Planning Grant program and the Rural Planning Innovation Grant program. These master plans position the city to be more competitive for grant funding. TDOT and other state agencies have many grants which fund the construction of crosswalks, greenways and other pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.
