Advocacy

AoB Urges Participation at RADTIP Input Sessions

by Asheville on Bikes

AoB needs you!

Attend at least one city input session and carry the message that a 16’ wide multi-use path with lane markings is essential to the RADTIP re-design. Let city leadership and staff know that bike / ped facilities are a priority and must be implemented in the first phasing of RADTIP.

At the June city council meeting, city staff was directed to consider the inclusion of a 16’ wide multi-use path with lane markings to separate users and to host a series of public input sessions on the issue. It’s critical that your support for robust bicycle facilities is heard at these input sessions. Help us carry this message and improve active transportation and recreation options in the River Arts District.

Some people argue that a 16’ wide multi-use path with lane markings to separate users isn’t necessary because the city can plan for a future protected bike lane and sidewalk, but AoB disagrees with this position because it is subject to changes in future funding opportunities, future city leadership, and future priorities. Instead, we strongly believe that the time is now!  

Attend an upcoming public input session and voice your support for 16’ wide multi-use trail. This is the best option because:

  • Public safety is the primary criterion. Bicycle and pedestrian facilities must be prioritized in the RADTIP. To delay implementation of bike / ped facilities is to de-prioritize them.
  • A 16’ wide multi-use path with lane markings to separate users complies with Federal Highway Association standards given the anticipated use. RAD is a critical bicycle corridor. The Swamp Rabbit and American Tobacco trails see 500,000+ users annually. RADTIP can anticipate similarly heavy use.Asheville needs to build for future use.
  • Vocal support for the 16’ wide multi-use path today supports future investment in active transportation facilities. Let city staff and leadership know that you support prioritizing robust bike / ped facilities. What we show for today, we ride tomorrow.

There are six opportunities to share your support for a 16’ wide multi-use path and safe railroad crossing with city staff and leadership:

  • Friday, July 28th 3pm – 5pm at 14 Riverside Dr.
  • Friday, July 28th 5pm – 7pm at 14 Riverside Dr.
  • Saturday, July 29th 10am – 12pm at 14 Riverside Dr. (Morning of Summer Cycle)
  • Saturday, July 29th 12pm – 2pm at 14 Riverside Dr. (Afternoon of Summer Cycle)
  • Thursday, Aug. 3rd 3pm – 5pm at First Floor North Conference Room, Asheville City Hall, 70  Court Plaza
  • Thursday, Aug. 10th 4pm – 5:30pm at 14 Riverside Dr.

Please attend at least one public input session and voice your support for 16’ wide path with with lane markings to separate users. Let staff know that you’re not willing to wait for future funding. Now is the time to build bike / ped facilities in the RADTIP.

We have a real and rare opportunity to advance Asheville’s active transportation network. Time is of the essence and your voice is critical to our future safer streets.

Related Content: Click here for more posts about RADTIP.