Reconfigure and repaint crosswalks where the existing conditions are not ideal and consider bulb-outs to shorten crossing distances at intersections. Provide safe mid-block crossing opportunities (e.g., pedestrian islands, RRFBs, etc.) at logical locations, such as transit stops, schools, or shopping centers. Provide continuous pedestrian access to transit stops. Provide amenities at transit stops that improve the experience of using transit, these amenities can include shelter or shade trees, seating, a paved or level landing area. Add shade trees along the walkways to protect pedestrians from the sun. The Greenways and Trails Plan Update provides opportunities to improve bicycle and pedestrian transportation in South County. Continue to expand and connect the greenways and trails network throughout the area. Identify opportunities for complete streets projects to connect to greenways and multiuse trails.
Coordinate Plans and Studies
The large geographic area of South County, coupled with the many agencies and departments that impact land use and transportation decisions, makes coordination a continuing challenge. The research team reviewed more than 30 plans and extensive capital improvement programs for the study, even as plan updates and new studies were initiated. Yet coordination of agency plans and studies, including the updates of the seven community plans, is essential to effectively address land use and mobility needs in South County. For example, several designated truck routes in freight plans traverse some of the town centers and pedestrian villages identified in the community plans (e.g., Gibsonton, Ruskin, Wimauma, Riverview, Balm). Many of the community plans identified the conflicts caused by these routes and stress the need to reduce or minimize the potential for conflict. Measures to balance the increasing demand for goods movement and the desire for more livable and walkable communities are needed. Examples include locating town centers and Main Streets away from current truck routes, using other modes or networks to move goods, or some combination. A clearly articulated policy and regulatory structure can form the basis for improved interagency coordination. More detailed mobility planning, with the components identified above, can then proceed with a focus on coordination of land use and transportation. Without coordination, community needs may not be met, projects may need to be reevaluated or redesigned, and policies may fail to reinforce the desired outcomes.
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