98
2017 R ena i s s anc e P l an U pdat e | T own of W ak e F or e s t
6.3.2 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities
for a generation, is an important and visible improvement.
Increasingly, especially in younger generations, the ability to bike and walk safely and enjoyably in a community is becoming a higher priority. Communities are putting more emphasis, and resources into improving bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Wake Forest completed a Bicycle Plan in 2008. Recommendations from the plan are shown on the opposite page. Likely because the rail crossing at Elm Avenue is proposed to be closed in the future, no new facilities are planned for that corridor. As Elm Avenue is a major connection from east to west through the Renaissance Area from Franklin Street to White Street and then to Main Street, and given the width of the street, adding bike lanes, even if they only connect
Similarly, the sidewalk network in downtown is fairly complete. Significant streetscape improvements were completed since the last Renaissance Plan in 2004, which included several new sidewalks and the widening of existing sidewalks. But, a few gaps remain in the network, particularly on Brooks Street and Roosevelt Avenue. Additionally, we should ensure that urban neighborhoods adjacent to downtown have robust sidewalk connections into downtown in order to encourage and support walking. Within the historic core, there are certain blocks that have existing sidewalks, but are interrupted by several unnecessary curb cuts. Some of these driveways can be closed without impairing site access, thereby improving the pedestrian experience. Furthermore, we should work to improve the walk from the White Street core to the Renaissance Plaza Shopping Center and planned townhomes on Brooks Street.
RESOURCE: Wake Forest Bicycle Plan completed in 2008 (wakeforestnc.gov)
RESOURCE: Wake Forest Pedestrian Plan completed in 2006 (wakeforestnc.gov)
S S Cyclist riding with traffic on White Street downtown
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online