4.4.1 SIDE WALKS

Comfortable sidewalks reinforce pedestrian environments. The comfort and convenience of pedestrian journeys will reduce internal auto trips and reinforce the efficiency of the Public Transit System by creating destinations, which are attainable without a car, and origins, which do not depend solely on park - and - ride mode transfers.

A minimum of a 1.2 meter sidewalk is comfortable for two people to walk abreast, but wider sidewalks are to be provided in the commercial areas or around the Neighborhood Nodes, where pedestrian activity is intense. However, the width of sidewalks is to be determined based on location, context and its role within the area.

A comparable image of a pathways system

4.4.2 OFF - STREET PATHWAYS

The Off - street Pathway network should be complementary to the road network. The pathway network often provides the shortest and easier connections between roads, parking lots or to the commercial nodes or areas.

Although the street and sidewalk system will accommodate many destinations, the primary destination will be the commercial core and transit stop. Direct paths to the Transit Stop will attract activities along them. The configuration of parking, shopping and pedestrian routes should reinforce access to transit.

A citywide system of pathways integrated with the road network and public transit lines is proposed. The pathways run parallel to the streams, connect the Open Space System and link public transit Stops.

4.4.3 CYCLE WAYS

Cycling is developing as a major past time, exercise and sport. Over the past decade “mountain bikes” have revolutionized cycling technology. Bicycling can be a major alternative to the auto for local trips, trips to the transit stop, or trips to work. Separated or marked bike lanes on several Primary or Secondary Roads leading to the Core area will support this alternative, as will the Cycle tracks along the open space systems connecting the Neighborhood Nodes, core and other employment destinations. Geared mountain bicycles are very appropriate for many zones of the city, for youth and tourists.

Selected routes to the transit stops should provide marked or separated bicycle ways connecting with the residential areas and other key destinations. Designated bicycle ways should be provided on selected connector streets and a limited number of Access Streets that converge upon the commercial and transit centers.

Bicycle ways should be well identified by signs that indicate the beginning, end and route of the bicycle way. Clear destination signs should be provided that direct riders to key activity centers, such as shopping areas, transit stops, recreation facilities, schools and bike parking facilities.

MAP NO. 4.4 PROPOSED PATHWAYS SYSTEM (Click to view the map)