News: 3 Reasons Why I Will Vote Yes Tomorrow
Tomorrow we have the opportunity to go to the polls and vote on the direction of transportation in our region. While there are many good reasons to support this referendum, before tomorrow, I wanted to share the
top three reasons for why I will vote YES.
Dozens of Projects that will Improve Safety for Cyclists: The project list and local plans are flush with bicycle projects that will improve safety and accessibility. Some examples: The regional project list includes over 40 projects that incorporate bicycle facilities.
The City of Atlanta’s plan includes 29 additional miles of new bicycle facilities. This will more than double the city’s mileage of bicycle-friendly streets.
The City of Decatur’s plan includes an extensive build-out of bike lanes and facilities, including along Clairmont Road to North Decatur. In the Emory area, bike lanes will be added to Haygood Road. In addition, a funding source for bike lanes and other roadway improvements will be established in DeKalb County. Those of you who want to ride a bike to Emory but are concerned about safety, and our survey data says there are 100’s of you out there, will finally feel comfortable riding a bike to work or to class.There is Something in the Project List for Everyone: Most of the road projects on the list include improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians. This means that most of the projects on the list will have a positive impact on commutes and local communities. The project list represents true collaboration in a region that has been historically divided.
This May Be Our Last Shot. State leaders have publicly stated that there will not be another referendum anytime soon and next time the list will be focused on improving roads for automobiles only.
This is perhaps our last opportunity to ensure that Emory, Atlanta and the region reaches its great potential and transforms into one of the best places to ride a bicycle in the country.
This vote is going to be very close. If you support safer commutes, transportation options, and healthier livable communities, I am calling on you to round up everyone you know and get them to the polls tomorrow.
Jamie Smith Director - Bike Emory