HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packet 092810 - PRC Spc Joint Mtg
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
Atascadero City Council
Atascadero Parks & Recreation Commission
Bicycle Transportation Plan
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Special Meeting follows the conclusion of the City Council
Regular Meeting scheduled for 6:00 P.M.
City Hall, Council Chambers
6907 El Camino Real, Atascadero, California
AGENDA
JOINT MEETING -- CITY COUNCIL AND PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
ROLL CALL: City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission
OATH OF OFFICE: Newly appointed Parks and Recreation Commissioner, Mark Dariz,
will be sworn in by City Clerk Marcia Torgerson
PRESENTATION: Parks and Recreation Update
1. Bicycle Transportation Plan
Fiscal Impact: Plan development costs have been absorbed by the
Community Services, Public Works and Community Development
Departments. Capital Improvement costs and other costs indicated in the
Bike Plan are not funded nor budgeted. The plan is not a spending
initiative, and does not require the City to build any of the projects
identified in the plan. The Bike Plan is a planning document that will
allow the City to be eligible for a number of State and Federal funding
opportunities. The City’s ability to obtain grants and other outside
funding sources is directly linked to having an adopted Bicycle
Transportation Plan.
Recommendation: Council and Parks and Recreation Commission review
and comment on the Draft Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan and
provide direction as necessary. [Community Services]
PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the public may address the legislative bodies
concerning the subject of this Special Joint Meeting, limited to three (3) minutes each.
ADJOURNMENT: The City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission will
adjourn to their next regularly scheduled meetings.
Please note: Should anyone challenge any proposed development entitlement listed on this Agenda in court, that
person may be limited to raising those issues addressed at the public hearing described in this notice, or in wri tten
correspondence delivered to the City Council at or prior to this public hearing. Correspondence submitted at this
public hearing will be distributed to the Council and available for review in the City Clerk's office.
I, Victoria Randall, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Atascadero, declare under the penalty of perjury that
the foregoing agenda for the September 28, 2010 Special Joint Meeting of the Atascadero City Council
and Parks and Recreation Commission was posted on September 21, 2010 at the Atascadero City Hall,
6907 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 and was available for public review in the Customer
Service Center at that location.
Signed this 21st day of September 2010, at Atascadero, California.
___________________________________
Victoria Randall, Deputy City Clerk
City of Atascadero
Pedaling from 2010 to 2025
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 1
Acknowledgements
Atascadero City Council:
Mayor Roberta Fonzi
Mayor Pro-Tem Tom O'Malley
Council Members Ellen Beraud
Jerry Clay
Bob Kelley
Additional Thanks to: Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission
David Athey, City of Atascadero
Brady Cherry, City of Atascadero
Callie Taylor, City of Atascadero
Luke Knight, City of Atascadero
Jennifer Fanning, City of Atascadero
Len Colamarino
Doug Marks
Mike Zappas
Geiska Velasquez, SLO Council of Governments
Dan Rivoire, San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 2
Contents
1. Plan Description .................................................................................. 4
Purpose ........................................................................................................ 4
Background .................................................................................................. 4
Advantages .......................................................................................... 6
Recommendations ....................................................................................... 6
2. Infrastructure ...................................................................................... 7
Existing Infrastructure .................................................................................. 7
Proposed Improvements ............................................................................. 10
Short Term ............................................................................................................... 11
Long Term ................................................................................................................ 11
4. Policies .............................................................................................. 14
New Development ..................................................................................... 14
Maintenance .............................................................................................. 15
Education and Safety .................................................................................. 16
Plan Updates .............................................................................................. 17
1. Plan Development ............................................................................. 17
Outreach .................................................................................................... 17
Relationships to Other Plans ....................................................................... 18
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 3
Appendices
Appendix 1: BTA Requirements ...................................................................... 20
Appendix 2: Land Use, Zoning, and Community Destinations ......................... 21
Appendix 3: Funding Sources ......................................................................... 25
Appendix 4: Bicycle and Pedestrian Commuter Estimates .............................. 29
Appendix 5: Bicycle Related Crash Statistics ................................................... 30
Appendix 6: Bicycle Facilities ......................................................................... 31
Appendix 7: Bike Parking Programs ................................................................ 39
Appendix 8: Bicycle Safety Workshops ........................................................... 42
Tables
Table 1: Existing Infrastructure and Associated Costs ....................................... 8
Table 1.1: Existing Bicycle Parking and Changing Facilities ................................ 9
Table 2: Proposed Infrastructure and Associated Costs .................................. 11
Table 3: Community Destinations .................................................................. 22
Table 4: Means of Transportation to Work ..................................................... 29
Figures
Figure 1: Existing and Proposed Facilities ....................................................... 12
Figure 1.1: Facilities with Bicycle Parking and Changing Facilities ................... 13
Figure 2: Community Destinations ................................................................. 21
Figure 3: City of Atascadero Land Use Diagram .............................................. 23
Figure 4: City of Atascadero Zoning Diagram .................................................. 24
Figure 5: Bike Collision Map ........................................................................... 30
Figure 6: Class I Bikeway Specifications .......................................................... 31
Figure 7: Class II Bikeway Specifications ......................................................... 32
Figure 8: Class III Bikeway Specifications ........................................................ 33
Figure 9: Sharrow Symbols ............................................................................. 34
Figure 10: Bike Loop Specifications ................................................................ 35
Figure 11: Examples of Channelization ........................................................... 36
Figure 12: Examples of Channelization ........................................................... 37
Figure 13: Examples of Channelization ........................................................... 38
Figure 14: Bike Boxes ..................................................................................... 39
Figure 15: Peak Rack ...................................................................................... 39
Figure 16: U Rack ........................................................................................... 40
Figure 17: Bike Lockers and Cages .................................................................. 40
Figure 18: Bike Station ................................................................................... 41
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 4
1. Plan Description
This section of the Bicycle Transportation Plan contains the information necessary for
decision makers and citizens to understand its scope, intent, and impacts. Those seeking
specific detail regarding Plan projects, policies, and development , may refer to sections
2, 3, and 4, respectively.
Purpose
The purpose of this Plan is to provide a blueprint for the development of a
comprehensive bicycling system that facilitates bicycle transportation by community
members, from children to seniors, both within the city of Atascadero, and to and from
neighboring cities. The Plan also aims at enhancing opportunities for recreational
bicycling, with the dual goals of encouraging recreational cycling by residents and
making Atascadero an attractive destination for tourists.
Adoption of the Bicycle Transportation Plan demonstrates that the City of Atascadero is
committed to bicycle transportation and will make the City eligible for various federal,
state and regional grants in connection cycling related projects. Beyond that, adoption
of this Plan will be an important first step in establishing Atascadero as a Bicycle Friendly
Community and obtaining recognition as a place where bicyclists are welcome and safe
on the roads.
The Bicycle Transportation Plan is not a spending initiative or program of projects. Plan
approval does not require the City of Atascadero to develop or fund projects or policies
included in the Plan.
Background
The growing interest in bicycle riding throughout the United States is evident almost
everywhere. Local and national efforts such as new bike specific development plans,
bicycle infrastructure, encouragement activities, Safe Routes to Schools program, and
the emergence of powerful regional bike organizations indicate a transition in
Americans’ attitude towards cycling for transportation and recreation. The City of
Atascadero is well aware of this phenomenon and, by this Plan, is continuing the process
of positioning itself to participate in it and to take advantage of Atascadero’s unique
suitability for bicycling.
The Bicycle Transportation Plan has been created through the diligent efforts of the
Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission, the San Luis Obispo Council of
Governments, the San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition and citizens interested in
improving the bicycling environment in Atascadero. Without the sustained efforts of
the involved organizations and citizens, this Plan could n ot have been developed
(section 4).
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 5
Atascadero stands poised to make major gains in increasing bicycle use, thanks to
several factors:
First, Atascadero already has many attributes of a bicycle-friendly community. These
include being a smaller sized community with a mild climate and diverse topography, as
well as having a population interested in health, environment, and livable
neighborhoods. Also, recreational bicycling in and around Atascadero is already popular,
which has significantly increased local bicycle ridership and the population’s interest in
expanding it further.
Second, there is a history of good cycling and bikeway planning in neighboring cities and
in San Luis Obispo County. Increasing support from the surrounding community is
evidenced by the approval of bicycle master plans on the County level and in the cities
of San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, Arroyo Grande, and Paso Robles. Bicycle master plans
are also currently in development in every jurisdiction in San Luis Obispo County. As
more residents cycle for recreation, more commute by bicycle as well. Consequently,
more community members than ever are advocating for improved bicycling conditions
throughout the County. In Atascadero, and other communities in the County, residents
are expressing a desire for more miles of safe bicycle lanes, bicycle boulevards, marked
bike routes and off-street paths, along with more bicycle parking, and improved
maintenance of existing facilities—all for the purpose of minimizing dangers for cyclists
and encouraging more bicycle riding.
Third, there is a political consensus favoring the encouragement of bicycling, which
translates in availability of considerable funding opportunities available for bicycle
transportation improvements. This is true on the state level, thanks to the 1994
California Bicycle Transportation Act, the establishment of the state Bicycle
Transportation Account in 1997, the 2002 Blueprint for Bicycling and Walking, and the
2007 Complete Streets Act.
Federal funding opportunities are also available, by reason of the following:
1990 Clean Air Act,
1991 Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA),
1991 Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Program,
1993 Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Recreational Trails Program
(RTP),
1998 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA21),
2005 Safe Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: a Legacy for
Users (SAFETEA-LU),
All of the laws and programs mentioned above call for renewed commitment to bicycle
travel. Already, these laws and programs are delivering over a billion dollars in bicycle,
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 6
trail and pedestrian projects nationwide, and thousands of miles in new bicycle lanes,
sidewalks, multi-use trails and other non-motorized enhancements.
Eligibility for state and federal active transportation grant programs depends on having
an approved Bicycle Transportation Plan. For example: the City of Atascadero is
currently ineligible for any of the $7.2 million allocated annually by the State of
California’s Bicycle Transportation Account, while neighboring cities with bike plans
continue to get funds to provide improvements to their infrastructure. From the Bicycle
Transportation Account alone, $64.8 million in funds have been allocated t o cities
throughout California since 2001.
Advantages
Growing demand for cycling facilities, maintaining its unique small-town rural character,
the importance of promoting energy-efficient, non-polluting forms of transportation
and establishing Atascadero as a destination for active, outdoor-oriented tourists are
four important reasons for adopting a Bicycle Transportation Plan. Additionally,
encouraging bicycling and walking as transportation will help obviate increasing motor
vehicle traffic problems in Atascadero.
This Bicycle Plan can additionally enhance the enjoyment and quality of life for the
residents of Atascadero. Since walking and bicycling are some of the most popular forms
of recreational activity in the United States (with 84% walking and 46% of Americans
bicycling for pleasure), it can be extrapolated that at least 21,000 residents in
Atascadero will occasionally walk, and close to 11,500 will bicycle, purely for pleasure.
Last, but certainly not least, is the matter of safety. Improving safety for cyclists is the
single most effective way to encourage people to use bicycles for transportation and
recreation. Addressing concerns about safety through physical and program
improvements is another major advantage of the Atascadero Bicycle Transportation
Plan.
Recommendations
There are two distinct types of recommendations in the Plan: Infrastructure (section 2)
and Policies (section 3). Infrastructure improvements such as new bikeways or walkways
are broken down between short/mid-term (1 to 5 years) and long-term (5 to 15 years).
These projects are designed and packaged to be feasible and competitive for external
funding sources. Policy recommendations include safety education programs, tourism
marketing and guidelines for maintenance and upgrades.
Implementing recommendations from the Plan will help establish Atascadero as a model
community for bicycling and walking in the United States. The public has cited concerns
about safety, livability, and traffic congestion of our towns and cities as the primary
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 7
impetus to implement a Plan. Along with adult commuters and recreational riders, two
other groups have been identified as important beneficiaries of the Plan: senior citizens
and school children.
2. Infrastructure
The intention of a projects section of the plan is to provide an inventory of current
bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure throughout Atascadero and propose specific new
projects that, when completed, will facilitate active transportation and recreation. All
future physical projects included in the Plan are broken into two primary categories:
short-term (1 to 5 years) and long-term (5 to 15 years).
The majority of physical projects proposed in the Plan will fall into one of three major
categories of bicycle infrastructure. Each has its pros and cons, addresses the concerns
of different demographics, and will promote biking in a different manner. Additional
improvements to bicycle parking are also included in the projects section of the Plan.
Class I. Variously called a bike path or multi-
use trail. Provides for bicycle travel on a
paved right of way completely separated from
any street or highway.
Class II. Referred to as a bike lane. Provides a
striped and stenciled lane outside the motor
vehicle lanes for one-way bike travel along a
street or highway.
Class III. Referred to as a bike route. Provides
for shared use by bicycles with motor vehicles
or pedestrians and is identified only by signing
and stenciling.
Existing Infrastructure
Atascadero has already shown certain leadership in encouraging healthy active
transportation choices. Infrastructure projects such as share-the-road signs, bike lanes,
multi-use paths, and sidewalks exist in various locations throughout the City with special
attention paid to providing safe routes to schools, destinations, and the downtown area
(as indicated in Figure 3). Most projects have been funded through gr ants from the
Transportation Enhancements program, Safe Routes to School program and the San Luis
Obispo Council of Governments. Completed projects are listed in the table and figure
below (Table 1, Figure 1).
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 8
Table 1
Existing Infrastructure and Associated Costs
Table 1 Recently Completed Projects That Include New Bicycle Facilities
Segment From To Type of Improvement
Approx.
Length (mi) Year Cost*
De Anza Trail
Along the Salinas
River & Union
Pacific Railroad
north eastern
Atascadero
Class I Bikeway & Multi-Use
Trail
3.5
Prior to
2000
Jim Green Trail
Chalk Mountain
Golf Course Loop
Class I Bikeway & Multi-Use
Trail
1.3
Prior to
2000
El Camino Real
southern city
limit
Santa Barbara
Road Class II Bike Lane Segment 2.0
Prior to
2000
El Camino Real San Diego Road
State Highway
41 Class II Bike Lane Segment 2.3
Prior to
2000
El Camino Real
San Jacinto
Avenue
San Anselmo
Avenue Class II Bike Lane Segment 0.3
Prior to
2000
Traffic Way
Olmeda Avenue /
Downtown
Union Pacific
Railroad south
of San Jacinto Class II Bike Lane 1.1
Prior to
2000
Capistrano
Avenue
Union Pacific
Railroad Downtown Class II Bike Lane 0.5
Prior to
2000
Railroad Bridge
El Camino Real North ECR North ECR Constructed New Bridge 0.1 2005
Graves Creek
Bridge North Ferrocarril
North
Ferrocarril Constructed New Bridge 0.1 2005
El Camino Real San Diego Road
Santa Barbara
Road New Bike Lanes 0.5 2007 1,100,000
Lewis Ave Bridge East Mall Capistrano
Constructed New Bridge with
Bike Lanes and signage. 0.1 2007 $4,000,000
Traffic Way Entrada Via Road
Added Class II Bike Lane
Striping and Signage 0.5 2007 $600,000
Traffic Way Palma North Palma South
Added Class II Bike Lane
Striping and Signage 0.1 2007 $1,000,000
El Camino Real Rosario State Route 41 Added Class II Bike Lane 0.6 2009 $1,000,000
San Andres Road Navajo Road San Marcos
Added Class II Bike Lane
Striping 0.3 2009 $1,000,000
Santa Rosa Road US 101 Atascadero
Added Class II Bike Lane
Striping, Widened Shoulder,
Installed Signage. 0.3 2010 $ 550,000
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 9
Table 1.1
Existing Bicycle Parking and Changing Facilities
Table 1.1 Existing Bicycle Parking and Changing Facilities
Location Building / Use Type Type of Bicycle Facility
Sunken gardens Public Park Bike Racks
Zoo Public Facility Bike Racks
Traffic Way Street / Intersection Bike Racks
Paloma Creek Park Public Park and Sports Fields Bike Racks
Pavilion Public Facility Bike Racks
Lake Park Public Park Bike Racks
Alvord Field Public Sports Fields Bike Racks
Atascadero Library Public Facility Bike Racks
City Hall Public Facility Bike Racks
San Benito Elementary
San Gabriel Elementary
Santa Rosa Elementary
Monterey Rd Elementary
School Bike Racks
Atascadero Junior High School Bike Racks, Restrooms & Showers,
Changing Facilities
Atascadero High School School Bike Racks, Restrooms & Showers,
Changing Facilities
Chalk Mountain Community School School Bike Racks
Del Rio Continuation School School Bike Racks
Colony Park Community Center Public Facility Bike Racks, Restrooms, Changing
Facilities
San Luis Park and Ride
(next to the freeway at Curbaril)
park and ride lot Bike Lockers
Santa Barbara Park And Ride. park and ride lot Bike Lockers
Rite Aid Retail Shopping Bike Racks
Tastee Freeze
Jack in the Box
Carl’s Jr.
Restaurant / Fast Food Bike Racks
K-man Retail (Bike Shop) Bike Racks
Colony Square Movie Theater & Retail /
Restaurant
Bike Racks
Kennedy Fitness Private Gym Bike Racks, Restrooms & Showers,
Changing Facilities
Champions Private Gym Bike Racks, Restrooms & Showers,
Changing Facilities
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 10
Proposed Improvements
Infrastructure projects that would increase safety and access for transportation and
recreational bicycle use are outlined in this subsection. Proposed improvements have
been identified through community feedback at public workshops, via email and direct
communication. Additional feedback from City Staff has helped identify gaps in current
infrastructure and ensure that improvements are aligned with Atascadero community
values and development priorities.
Short-term, 1 to 5 years (Table 2.1), and Long-term, 5 to 15 years (Table 2.2), timelines
break all projects in two major categories of priority. Short-term projects are those of
high priority, which could be pursued immediately, and are likely to receive grant
funding. Long-term projects are often associated with community expansion, future
improvements to bikeway connectivity, and often require greater regional funding
coordination.
Streets and Highways Code Section 831.2 requires project prioritization for bike
projects. All projects have been ranked, but ranking does not strictly dictate the order of
construction.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 11
Table 2.1, 2.2
Proposed Infrastructure and Related Costs
Table 2.1 Proposed Short-term Improvements and Associated Costs
Segment From To
Caltrans
Classification
Approximate
Length (mi) Year Cost
State Route 41 Striping and
Signage* Western City Limits
Eastern City
Limits Class II 6.0 1-5
$200-
612,000
El Camino Real Class II Bike
Lane Gap Closure Projects
Northern City
Limits
Southern City
Limits Class II 1.1 1-5 $2-700,000
Designated Bike Route
Signage/Striping
Beginning of Bike
Routes
End of Bike
Routes Class I-III 20 1-5
$ 200-
1,000,000
End of El Camino Real El Camino Real City Limits
North Class I .5 1-5 1,000,000
Safe Routes to School
Projects Collectors/Arterials Schools Class I-III 6 1-5 $1,000,000
*Will require Caltrans Approval
Table 2.2 Proposed Long-term Improvements and Associated Costs
Segment From To
Caltrans
Classification
Approx. Length
(mi) Year Cost
Atascadero Creek
UP RR/Sycamore
Rd. San Gabriel Road
Unclassified
Multi-Use 2.7 1-10 $357,000
Trail generally follows path of creek, but will
be on public streets where necessary
Stadium Park
Connector Atascadero Creek StadiumPark Class I/Multi-Use 0.3 1-10 173,000
Atascadero Lake Trail Atascadero Lake
Atascadero Lake
(loop) Class I/Multi-Use 1.0 1-10 $71,400
Atascadero Road State Route 41 Santa Rosa Road Class II 3.5 1-10 $262,500
Curbaril ROW –
(Multi Use non-vehicular
Bridge over Salinas River) Sycamore
Rocky Canyon
Road Class I 0.2 1-15 1,000,000
Via Road Traffic Way Capistrano Class II 1 1-15 500,000
Pacific Union Railroad
(RWT) San Jacinto Avenue City Limits Class I/Multi-Use 2.5 1-15 $1,700,000
Pacific Union Railroad
(RWT) De Anza Trail Loop Curbaril Avenue Class I/Multi-Use 1.1 1-15 $680,000
Safe Routes to School
Projects (Continuation
of Projects) Collectors/Arterials Schools Class I-III 6-10 1-15 2,000,000
Cuesta Ridge Trail
Connection
State Route 41 /
Eagle Ranch
Cerro Alto
Campground &
Cuesta Ridge Trail
Unclassified
Multi-Use 1-15
Eagle Ranch Trail San Rafael Road
Atascadero Road
& Cuesta Ridge
trail connection Class I 1-15
Eagle Ranch / 101
Connection
Eagle Ranch &
Atascadero Road
Highway 101
underpass Class I 1-15
Santa Rita Creek
Bridge El Camino City Limits Class I 1-15
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Class I - Existing
Class I - Proposed
Class II - Existing
Class II - Proposed
Class III - Existing
Class III - Proposed
Eagle Ranch Annex
Bike Routes Map.Date Printed:9/20/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.8 milesTo Cerro Alto Campground& West Cuesta Ridge Trail To Santa Margarita
To Rocky Canyon& Creston
To Templeton
El Camino Real
Traffic WayEl Camino Real
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San Jacinto AveSan Benito RdPalomar AveSan Anselmo RdSan Rafael Rd
Paseo Del Lago
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El Bordo AveSan Diego Rd San Diego WayVia Ave
San M a r c os RdSan Rafael RdArdilla RdArdilla RdA rdilla Rd
Legend
Bike Facilities
Bike Racks
Bike Lockers
Restrooms/Changing
Showers
Bike Route Bridges
Existing
Proposed
Bike Plan Routes
Class I - Existing
Class I - Proposed
Class II - Existing
Class II - Proposed
Class III - Existing
Class III - Proposed
Eagle Ranch Annex
Facilities MapDate Printed:9/21/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.65 miles
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 14
3. Policies
The overall goal of the Bicycle Transportation Plan is to make bicycling a safe and
convenient alternative to driving. The policies listed below will ensure that the City
continue to:
Increase safety and livability
Reduce bicyclist accidents
Mitigate traffic and parking congestion
Facilitate affordable mobility
Attract tourists
Encourage healthy transportation choices.
Specifically, each policy will provide the City with a blueprint to aid in the development
of a comprehensive bicycle system that facilitates active transportation by community
members, from children to seniors, both within the city of Atascadero, and to and from
neighboring cities.
New Development Policies
P1: The City shall update the Engineering Standard Specification to include bikeway
improvement standards for streets and Class I pathways including surface
materials, signage and striping.
P2 New development projects that construct, reconstruct, or reconfigure existing
roadways shall, provide bikeways as prioritized and illustrated on the Figure 1,
wherever feasible.
P3: Whenever new development is adjacent to a school, community center, or
commercial center, development shall include a Class I pathways to the
center/school/facility.
P4: The City shall take full advantage of current regional, State, and Federal bicycle
and pedestrian grant funding programs for bikeway projects.
P5: The Municipal Code shall be updated to require bike racks for short term and
long term bicycle parking for all commercial and multifamily residential uses with
a parking ratio consistent with the California Green Building Code.
P6: Parking lots, park and ride lots, and transit centers should, when feasible,
provide bicycle parking for commuters. The City should work with SLOCOG and
RTA to identify funds for bicycle parking.
P7: The City shall work with local schools to establish enough bike parking to
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 15
accommodate at least 10% of the student/staff population.
P8: All future annexations shall be consistent with this plan. Review of Bicycle/
Pedestrian opportunities should be considered in City review of annexation
areas.
P9: The Bike Plan shall be consulted when assembling and updating the Capital
Improvement program.
P10: The City shall eliminate gaps in bicycle routes and prioritize route continuity.
P11: Local bikeway and trail projects shall be coordinated with regional projects
whenever possible.
P12: The City shall seek funding and coordinate with other agencies, such as SLOCOG,
San Luis Obispo County and Caltrans, to establish a bicycle route connection
from Atascadero to Templeton along the Salinas River.
P13: The City should encourage new development to include facilities for changing
and storing clothes and equipment to encourage bicycle commuting.
P14: Enhance bicycle access and travel within the Downtown.
Maintenance
P15: All Class I, II, and III bikeways shall be constructed and maintained according to
guidelines described in Appendix 6 including pavement, sign, striping and stencil
upkeep, channelization at intersections that have left or right-turn lanes crossing
Class II bikeways, bicycle detection systems at signals, bicycle friendly drainage
grates and more.
P16: The City shall ensure street sweeping maintenance is extended to include bike
lanes, such that bike facilities are maintained along with the travel lanes. Bicycle
and pedestrian pathways should be maintained as part of the City row
maintenance efforts.
- The City should encourage local cycling and service groups to aid in
maintenance or bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
- An "adopt a trail/lane" program could be implemented to provide
recognition for all maintenance related community service efforts.
- If necessary, trail maintenance programs administration may be
contracted to a local organization or bicycle advocacy group.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 16
Education and Safety
P17: The City shall install directional signage to assist community members in their
effort to find streets with bicycle facilities or identify locations where there is a
change in the type of facility (e.g. where a Class I ends at an intersection and a
Class II start on the other side, signage shall indicate to user what courses of
action are available to them).
P18: The City should consider the establishment of a Rack for Plaques program where
community members donate funds for the purchase of specific bike parking
racks in designated locations in exchange for special recognition on those racks
to assist in meeting bike parking requirements.
P19: All community events where over 500 attendees are expected shall provide bike
parking for at least 10% of the expected turnout.
- Temporary bike parking can typically be contracted to an outside
organization. Ex: Bike Valet services may be hired the San Luis Obispo
County Bicycle Coalition (SLOCBC) at a minimal cost to the event
organizers.
P20: The City shall work with SLO Regional Rideshare to provide Transportation
Choices Programs to City employees.
P21: The City should encourage safer cycling through Bicycle Education Workshops.
The SLOCBC currently teaches a two part series of workshops to teach adults
safe bicycle riding, provides one hour lunchtime sessions to businesses, schools
and more. The School District shall be encouraged to provide bike and
pedestrian safety programs at schools within City limits. The City may participa te
in bike rodeos or assemblies, organized walk/bike to school day events, and Safe
Routes to School Activates. Collaboration with SLO Regional Rideshare, SLOCOG
Safe Routes to School, SLOCBC, PTA and other organizations should be
conducted to locate additional grant funding and volunteer support.
P22: The City should require Bicycle Confidence Workshops (offered by SLOCBC) or
another equivalent program, to all people ticketed for bicycling illegally.
P23: The City should promote proper cycling to tourists by providing safe cycling
information on the Conference and Visitors Bureau website and at the Chamber
of Commerce Building downtown.
P24: The City may work collaboratively with others to support events and programs
(ex: SLO Bike Club, The Wellness Community, USA Cycling, Amgen Tour of
California, American Hiking Society National Trail day) promoting biking, walking,
bicycle racing, and bicycle tourism in Atascadero.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 17
Plan Updates
P25: The Bicycle Transportation Plan shall be updated every five years.
- A stakeholder group shall be established to assist City staff with the
effort of updating Plan content and facilitating public input.
P26: Plan update shall maximize coordination between local and regional
municipalities, community organizations and the general public to include and
evaluate all issues of mutual concern.
P27: The City Public Works department shall regularly monitor bicycle related
accident levels, and seek a significant reduction on a per capita basis over the
next twenty years.
P28: The Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan shall be consistent with regional
plans such as the Regional Transportation Plan (2005), and local plans such as
County Bikeways Plan prepared by the San Luis County Engineering Department
(2005).
4. Plan Development
Atascadero's Bicycle Transportation Plan has been developed during spring and summer
of 2010 under the guidance of the Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission,
assisted by the Public Works department, Community Development department, and
local citizens interested in increasing active transportation opportunities in Atascadero.
Outreach
A stakeholder group of local citizens have worked to update Atascadero’s 2000 Bicycle
Transportation plan with the goal of having the improved plan approved by the end of
2010. Special guidance regarding potential political hurdles, cycling encouragement
programs, and infrastructure ideas has been p rovided by the San Luis Obispo County
Bicycle Coalition.
In May of 2010 the Parks and Recreation Commission, with assistance from the SLO
County Bicycle Coalition, conducted a public workshop to better understand current
demand for a Bike Plan, discuss its potential benefits, and receive input regarding
specific projects and policies Atascadero residents care about most. Over 20 participants
were present at the pubic workshop. After the workshop, the stakeholder group began
moving forward with updating the content of the plan and integrating ideas for
improved bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 18
A public hearing conducted on September 2 8th at a joint meeting of the Atascadero City
Council and the Parks and Recreation Commission provided additional opportunities for
public feedback before the completion of a Final Draft of the Atascadero Bicycle
Transportation Plan.
Relationships to Other Plans
As an Element of the General Plan, the Bicycle Transportation Plan has the
comprehensive scope and jurisdictional authority required to coordinate and guide the
provision of all bicycle related programs, projects and facilities affecting the City of
Atascadero. While many current planning efforts provide recommendations regarding
one element or aspect of the bicycle networks; the task of the Atascadero Bicycle
Transportation Plan is to ensure compatibility of all of these blueprints, while attending
to planning for areas of the City not already targeted by other studies. The studies or
planning efforts listed below have been reviewed and consulted, studied for
consistency, and where appropriate, folded into Atascadero’s Bicycle Transportation
Plan:
City of Atascadero General Plan (2002)
The 2002 update of the General Plan addresses the planning and design of bicycle
facilities in Atascadero. It makes specific recommendations meant to improve cycling
conditions throughout Atascadero. Recommendations include: (a) a comprehensive
network of on and off road bike routes to encourage the use of bikes for commute,
recreational and other trips, (b) provide trailheads to improve access to the Salinas River
and historic De Anza Trail.
San Luis Obispo County Bikeways Plan (2005)
The San Luis Obispo County Bikeways Plan provides the blueprint for developing a
bikeway system that includes both on and off street facilities as well as support facilities
and programs throughout the unincorporated County. The Plan compliments bikeway
plans prepared by other jurisdictions by identifying key connections to existing or
planned bikeway facilities in these jurisdictions.
San Luis Obispo County Regional Transportation Plan (2005)
The Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) developed by the San Luis Obispo County
Council of Governments (SLOCOG) outlines the vision for transportation in SLO County
through the year 2025. Various goals in the RTP include bicycle and pedestrian
improvements and direct communities to: create and maintain a comprehensive
interconnected, inter-county bikeway, trail and pedestrian system; pursue plans to
develop multi-use and Class I bikeways along appropriate costal frontages, and other
major recreational areas using utility, rail, and roadway Rights-of-Way and abandoned
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 19
railroad right-of-way throughout the region; encourage the development of Class I
Bikeways that travel through or connect to scenic areas or other recreation
destinations; encourage the development of boardwalks, recreation and multi use trails,
which travel through or connect scenic areas or other destinations to promote walking
and equestrian travel where appropriate; and encourage new development proposals to
include bike racks, lockers, showers, Bike and Ride stops and safe interconnected
pedestrian paths
San Luis Obispo County Clean Air Plan (2001)
The SLO County Air Pollution Control District's Clean Air Plan recommends several
methods and options to reduce air pollution associated with vehicle miles traveled such
as: Voluntary Commute Options Program, City Transit Improvements, Regional Transit,
Bicycling and Bikeway Enhancements, and Park and Ride Lots.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 20
Appendices
Appendix 1: BTA requirements
To be eligible for Bicycle Transportation Account (BTA) funds, a city or county must prepare and adopt a
Bicycle Transportation Plan (BTP) that addresses items A-K in Streets and Highways Code Section 891.2.
Below is the list of requirements, along with the page number on which the requirement is met.
Requirement and Location
A. The estimated number of existing bicycle commuters in the plan area and the estimated
increase in the number of bicycle commuters resulting from implementation of the plan (p. 29).
B. A map and description of existing and proposed land use and settlement patterns, which shall
include, but not be limited to, locations of residential neighborhoods, schools, shopping centers, public
buildings, and major employment centers (p. 21, 22, 23, 24).
C. A map and description of existing and proposed bikeways (p. 8, 12).
D. A map and description of existing and proposed end-of-trip bicycle parking facilities. These shall
include, but not be limited to, parking at schools, shopping centers, public buildings, and major
employment centers (p. 9, 13).
E. A map and description of existing and proposed bicycle transport and parking facilities for
connections with and use of other transportation modes. These shall include, but not be limited to,
parking facilities at transit stops, rail and transit terminals, ferry docks and landings, park and ride lots,
and provisions for transporting bicyclists and bicycles on transit or rail vehicles or ferry vessels (p. 9, 13).
F. A map and description of existing and proposed facilities for changing and storing clothes and
equipment. These shall include, but not be limited to, lockers, restrooms, and shower facilities near
bicycle parking facilities (p. 9, 13).
G. A description of bicycle safety and education programs conducted in the area included within
the plan, efforts by the law enforcement agency having primary traffic law enforcement responsibility in
the area to enforce provisions of the Vehicle Code pertaining to bicycle operation, and the resulting
effect on accidents involving bicyclists (p. 30, 42).
H. A description of the extent of citizen and community involvement in development of the plan,
including, but not limited to, letters of support (p. 17).
I. A description of how the bicycle transportation plan has been coordinated and is consistent with
other local or regional transportation, air quality, or energy conservation plans, including, but not limited
to, programs that provide incentives for bicycle commuting (p. 18).
J. A description of the projects proposed in the plan and a listing of their priorities for
implementation (p. 11).
K. A description of past expenditures for bicycle facilities and future financial needs for projects
that improve safety and convenience for bicycle commuters in the plan area (p. 8, 11).
Atascadero JuniorHigh
Santa RosaElementary
Library
Eagle Ranch
Future Development(Residential, Hotel, Tourist, & Retail Uses)
Future Wal-Mart
Home Depot Center
Downtown
The Annex
Vons Center
K-Mart Center
Mission Oaks
Albertson's CenterFood-4-Less CenterSpencer's Center
Colony Square
Adobe Plaza
West Front Center
Dove CreekFuture Commercial
Future Hotel
Movie Theater
Meridian Offices
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Salinas River
Graves
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Del Rio R
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Santa Lucia R dTraf
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P
ortola Rd
Atasc
adero Ave
San Gabriel Rd
Santa Ana R
dSan Marcos RdCurbaril AveBal b oa RdSanta Cruz R dMonte
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S
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San Rafael RdAr
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Atascadero Rd San R afael R
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San Rafael RdA r d illa Rd
Los PadresNational Forest
Pine Mtn
Chalk Mtn GolfCourse
Heilmann Grove
Atascadero LakePark
Stadium Park
Paloma Creek Park
HeilmannRegional Park
Colony ParkCommunity Center
Atascadero High
San BenitoElementary
Monterey RdElementary
San GabrielElementary Chalk MtnCommunity School
Del RioContinuation
Legend
School Properties
Community Resources
Shopping Districts
Recreation Areas
Eagle Ranch Annex
Destinaiton Map.Date Printed:9/15/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.8 miles
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 22
Table 3
List of Community Destinations
Destination Project Type Status
San Benito Elementary
Monterey Rd Elementary
San Gabriel Elementary
Santa Rosa Elementary
Chalk Mountain Community
School
Del Rio Continuation School
Atascadero Junior High
Atascadero High School
Schools Complete
Los Padres National Forest
Pine Mountain
Chalk Mtn Golf Course
Heilmann Grove
Atascadero Lake Park
Stadium Park
Paloma Creek Park
Heilmann Grove
Heilmann Regional Park
Colony Park Community Center
Atascadero Library
Parks & Recreation Complete
Vons & Rite Aid Center
Albertson's Center
Food-4-Less Center
Spencer's Center
K-Mart Center
Adobe Plaza
Grocery
Drug Store
Retail
Complete
Downtown Retail / Restaurants Complete
Colony Square
Movie Theater & Mixed Use
Retail/ Restaurant
Office & Residential
Under Construction
Eagle Ranch
Mixed Use Development
Future Hotel, Tourist
Commercial, Residential
Planning App. in Progress
Walmart & The Annex Future Retail Planning App. in Progress
Mission Oaks Retail Complete
West Front Mixed Use Retail/ Restaurant
Business Park & Residential
CUP Approved
Holiday Inn Hotel Complete
Fairfield Inn Future Hotel CUP Approved
Meridian Office Complex Medical Complete
Moresco Plaza Office Complete
Home Depot Center Retail Phase I constructed
Dove Creek Commercial Future Retail CUP Approved
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Salinas River
Atascadero CreekGraves
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Traf
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sca
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San Gabriel Rd
Santa Ana Rd
S
a
n Marcos Rd Curbaril AveBalboa RdSanta Cruz R dM
ont
erey Rd
S
ycamore Rd
San Fernando Rd
Santa R osa R dSan Jacinto AveSan Benito RdSan Anselmo RdArdilla RdSan An
d
r
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A
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El Bordo AveSan
D
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d San Diego WaySan M a r c os RdArdilla RdArd
i
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A rdilla Rd
Legend
RR: Rural Residential
RE: Rural Estates (2.5 - 10 acre lot min)
SE: Suburban Estates (2.5 - 10 acre lot min)
SFR-Z: Single Family Residential (1.5 - 2.5 acre lot min)
SFR-Y: Single Family Residential (1.0 acre lot min)
SFR-X: Single Family Residential (0.5 acre lot min)
MDR: Medium Density Residential (10 units / ac)
HDR: High Density Residential (16 units / ac)
GC: General Commercial
SC: Service Commercial
D: Downtown
MU-PD: Mixed Use
CPK: Commercial Park
I: Industial
CREC: Commercial Recreation
REC: Public Recreation
OS: Open Space
A: Agriculture
P: Public Facilities
Landuse Map.Date Printed:9/14/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.65 miles
£¤101
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Salinas River
Atascadero CreekGraves
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Paloma CreekBo
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D el Rio R d
Sant
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Traf
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W
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Po
r
t
o
l
a
R
d
Ata
sca
dero Ave
San Gabriel Rd
Santa Ana Rd
S
a
n Marcos Rd Curbaril AveBalboa RdSanta Cruz R dM
ont
erey Rd
S
ycamore Rd
San Fernando Rd
Santa R osa R dSan Jacinto AveSan Benito RdSan Anselmo RdArdilla RdSan An
d
r
e
s
A
v
e
El Bordo AveSan
D
i
e
g
o
R
d San Diego WaySan M a r c os RdArdilla RdArd
i
l
l
a
R
d
A rdilla Rd
Legend
RR: Rural Residential
RS: Rural Suburban (2.5 - 10 acre lot min)
RSF-Z: Residential Single Family (1.5 - 2.5 acre lot min)
RSF-Y: Residential Single Family (1.0 acre lot min)
RSF-X: Residential Single Family (0.5 acre lot min)
LSF-Y: Limited Single Family Residential (1.0 acre lot min)
LSF-X: Limited Single Family Residential (0.5 acre lot min)
RMF-10: Residential Multiple Family (10 units / ac)
RMF-16: Residential Multiple Family (16 units / ac)
SP1: Specific Plan 1 (Woodridge)
CN: Commercial Neighborhood
CP: Commercial Professional
CR: Commercial Retail
CS: Commercial Service
CT: Commercial Tourist
CPK: Commercial Park
DC: Downtown Commercial
DO: Downtown Office
I: Industrial
IP: Industrial Park
L: Recreation
LS: Special Recreation
OS: Open Space
A: Agriculture
P: Public Facilities Zoning Map.Date Printed:9/14/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.65 miles
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 25
Appendix 3: Funding Sources
Federal
Transportation Enhancement Activities (TE)
• Interregional Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP-TE)
• Regional Improvement Program (STIP-TE)
Transportation Enhancement (TE) activities are federally funded community-based projects to expand
travel choices and enhance transportation experiences by improving cultural, historic, aesthetic and
environmental aspects of transportation infrastructure. The Transportation Enhancements program was
created in 1991 by Congress to offset negative effects of highway construction projects fragmenting
communities and eliminating open space. SAFETEA-LU significantly increased funds dedicated to the
program through 2009. An increase is assumed with next transportation bill CLEAN-TEA
The program is managed by state transportation agencies. States must set aside ten percent of its
Surface Transportation Program funds for use on TE activities. SLOCOG typically programs 5%-10% of
its regular STIP shares for transportation enhancement projects as well. TE projects are considered
federal-aid reimbursement activities, meaning sponsors receive funding after expenditures have been
made. In most cases, the federal government pays 80% of the project cost, and the project sponsor is
responsible for the remaining 20%. Current regulations permit other federal funds and in-kind
contributions as match. The TE funding program is directed to community-based activities, such as
bicycle facilities, historic preservation, land acquisition, environmental mitigation, corridor
enhancements, and scenic protection. This revenue stream is allocated to the region on a formula basis.
Project Eligibility: Federal Transportation Enhancement funds are for transportation related capital
improvement projects enhancing quality-of-life, in or around transportation facilities. Projects must
exceed normal transportation projects and required mitigation, and the project must be directly related
to surface transportation systems. The projects should have a quality-of-life benefit with the greatest
benefit to the greatest number of people. Projects must be within the following twelve categories:
1. Provision of facilities for pedestrians and bicycles
2. Provision of safety and educational activities for pedestrians and bicyclists
3. Acquisition of scenic easements and scenic/historic sites
4. Scenic or historic highway programs (including tourist and welcome centers)
5. Landscaping and other scenic beautification
6. Historic preservation
7. Rehab of historic transportation facilities (including historic railroad facilities)
8. Preservation of abandoned railway corridor (including conversion/ use for ped/bike trails)
9. Control and removal of outdoor advertising
10. Archaeological planning and research
11. Environmental mitigation to address water pollution due to highway runoff and reduce
vehicle-caused wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity
12. Establishment of transportation museums
The federal criteria have been used exclusively since the California Transportation Commission (CTC)
abolished the State Transportation Enhancement Activities (TEA) Program in 2002. For the State’s share,
districts are encouraged to add enhancements to regular transportation projects rather than create
stand-alone transportation enhancement projects. Administered through SLOCOG, competitive funding
is programmed during biannual STIP Programming.
Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS)
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 26
The Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS) is to increase the number of children in grades K-8 walking or
biking to school by removing the barriers that currently prevent them from doing so. Barriers include lack
of infrastructure or inadequate infrastructure that poses a safety hazard, or lack of outreach programs
that promote walking/bicycling through education and encouragement for children, parents, and the
community.
Project Eligibility: Eligible projects fall under the category of infrastructure (capital improvements), or
non-infrastructure (education, encouragement, enforcement). Infrastructure projects must be located
within a two-mile radius of a grade school or middle school. Eligible applicants include state, local an d
regional agencies. Non-profit organizations, federally recognized Native American Tribes, school
districts, hospitals and public health departments can partner with state, local and regi onal agencies as
their responsible applicants. Administered through Caltrans Local Assistance Competitive Federal
funding cycle complete. Future funding cycle structure unknown. Additional information found at:
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LocalPrograms/saferoutes/saferoutes.htm
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)
This new Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), under SAFETEA-LU, replaces the Hazard
Elimination Safety Program (HES). The ne w program provides a transition period that allows States to
fund projects that were eligible under the old HES Program until such time that an annual 5 Percent
Report, describing no less than 5 percent of public roadway locations with the most severe safety needs,
and a Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) have been developed and implemented by the State. The
intent of HSIP is to significantly reduce public roadway fatalities and serious injuries. The emphasis will
be at locations that are data and strategically driven.
Project Eligibility: For a project to be eligible for HSIP funds, the project must be on any public road,
publicly owned bicycle, pedestrian pathway, or trail. Projects must identify a specific safety problem that
can be corrected or be improved substantially. Administered through Caltrans Local Assistance.
See http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LocalPrograms/hsip.htm
Recreational Trails
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funds a nnually for recreational trails and trails-related
projects. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the California Department of Parks and
Recreation (DPR) administer the RTP. The Department's Office of Grants and Local Services administer
non-motorized projects and the Department's Office of Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division
administers motorized projects. See http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=24324
State
State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
These funds are not historically used for bicycle specific improvements, except in the case of STIP TE –
regional & local projects only (see Fed TE information above)
Interregional Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP)
These funds are not historically used for bicycle specific improvements, except in the case of ITIP-TE
projects. These funds are for Transportation Enhancements of Statewide significance such as the De
Anza Trail, Atascadero-Templeton Connector, etc.
Transportation Development Act (TDA)
Approved by the Legislature in 1971, the Mills-Alquist-Deddeh Act or SB 325 created the Transportation
Development Act (TDA). This law provides funding for transit and non-transit purposes complying with
Regional Transportation Plans. TDA established the Local Transportation Fund (LTF), and the State
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 27
Transit Assistance (STA) Fund. Providing certain conditions are met, counties with population under
500,000 (according to the 1970 Federal census) may also use the LTF for local streets and roads,
construction and maintenance. The STA funding can only be used for transportation planning and mass
transportation purposes. Project Eligibility: TDA funds a wide variety of tra nsportation programs,
including planning and program activities, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, community transit services,
public transportation, and bus and rail projects.
State Gas Tax Subventions
Also known as Highway User Tax Act (HUTA) subventi ons, Counties currently receive 3.23-cents of the
18-cents gas tax, equal to approximately $500 million annually. These funds are used at the jurisdictions’
discretion for transportation projects, including bike facilities. Current state budget deliberations include
proposals that eliminate the local share of Highway User Tax Act (HUTA, also known as Gas Tax) in FY
2009-10 and FY
2010-11.
Bicycle Transportation Account (formerly BLA)
The Bicycle Transportation Account Program (BTA) provides State funds for city and county projects that
improve safety and convenience for bicycle commuters. The Bicycle Facilities Unit (BFU) in the Division
of Local Assistance and the District Local Assistance Engineers (DLAE) administer the BTA Program.
Program Eligibility: Cities and counties are eligible to apply for BTA funds. To be eligible for BTA funds, a
city or county must prepare and adopt a Bicycle Transportation Plan that complies with Streets and
Highways Code Section 891.2 and has been approved by the appropriate Regional Transportation
Planning Agency and Caltrans. Project Categories BTA projects may include but are not limited to, the
following:
• New bikeways serving major transportation corridors
• New bikeways removing travel barriers to potential bicycle commuting
• Secure bicycle parking at employment centers, park-and-ride lots, rail and transit terminals, and ferry
docks and landings
• Bicycle-carrying facilities on public transit vehicles
• Installation of traffic control devices to improve the safety and efficiency of bicycle travel
• Elimination of hazardous conditions on existing bikeways
• Planning
• Improvement and maintenance of bikeways c ompetitive funding cycle announced in October.
Additional information found at: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LocalPrograms/bta/btawebPage.htm
Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program (EEM)
The Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation program was established by the 3Legislature in 1989. It
offers a total of $10 million each year for grants to local, state, and federal governmental agencies and to
nonprofit organizations for projects to mitigate the environmental impacts caused by new or modified
state transportation facilities.
Eligible projects must be directly or indirectly related to the environmental impact of the modification of
an existing transportation facility or construction of a new transportation facility. Projects funded under
this program must provide environmental enhancement and mitigation over and above what is
otherwise called for under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In funding the program, an
attempt is made to
A-31 maintains a 40/60 North/South split between California’s 45 northern and 13 southern counties.
Caltrans administers the approved grant agreements, and grants are awarded in three categories:
• Highway Landscape and Urban Forestry -- Projects designed improve air quality through the planting of
trees and other suitable plants.
• Resource Lands -- Projects for the acquisition, restoration, or enhancement of watersheds, wildlife
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 28
habitat, wetlands, forests, or other natural areas.
• Roadside Recreational -- Projects for the acquisition and/or development of roadside recreational
opportunities.
Additional information at: http://resources.ca.gov/eem/
Petroleum Violation Escrow Account
Grant opportunities from this fund are available through the Bicycle Facilities Unit (BFU) of Caltrans in
the form of BTA grants.
Office of Traffic Safety Grants (OTS)
Competitive Grants issued by the Office of Traffic Safety on a regional/local level. Search for Local grant
information on the website at: http://www.ots.ca.gov/Grants/default.asp
Safe Routes to School Program (SR2S)
Assembly Bill (AB) 1475 (Soto – 1999) called for Caltrans to establish and administer a program to fund
bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements for children in grades K-12 using federal
transportation funds. Senate Bill (SB) 10 was later enacted to extend the sunset date of the program
from January 1, 2002 to January 1, 2005. Subsequently SB1087 was signed by Governor Schwarzenegger
to extend the program for three more years. In 2007, AB 57 was enacted whi ch eliminated dedicated
funding and required that funds compete against other safety programs in the annual State Budget
process. Project Eligibility: To be eligible for SR2S funds, the project must be located on any state
highway or on any local road. Projects must correct an identified safety hazard or problem on a route
that students use for trips to and from school. Up to 10 percent of the project’s cost can fund a non-
infrastructure component that supports the infrastructure project. Only cities and counties are eligible to
compete for funds. Competitive funding cycle completed. Status of next funding cycle is unknown.
Additional information at:
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LocalPrograms/saferoutes/saferoutes.htm
Local/Regional
Traffic Mitigation/Impact Fees
These one-time fees may be imposed on new developments to pay for fair-share improvements and
facilities required to serve it or otherwise reduce the impacts of new developments in a community on a
regional level. While a number of jurisdictions
actively collect local impact fees, to date, regional traffic impact fees have not been pursued within the
San Luis Obispo region.
General Funds Jurisdictions can use General funds for bikeway improvements as outlined in their Capital
Improvement Program.
Sales Tax Increase
Local Option Sales tax: This can be used to improve bikeways, this is up to the Jurisdiction to decide to
do, promote, and prioritize funds from. San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, and Morro Bay
passed Local Option Sales tax measures in 2006.
Regional Option Sales tax: Throughout California, more and more regions have turned to a more stable
funding, locally-derived, source for transportation projects. Nineteen counties (representing 85% of the
population) have passed voter measures to increase the local sales tax, most typically, by 0.5%. In 07/08,
over $4.5B was generated for transportation purposes in these regions. Currently, these measures
require a 2/3rd majority vote and the funding may only be used for projects and programs in the
approved Expenditure Plan. A similar measure in the San Luis Obispo region would generate $20M-$25M
per year. While many of the remaining counties continue to actively and aggressively pursue a regional
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 29
option sales tax, the San Luis Obispo region has not yet made any progress.
Fuel Tax Increase
A Fuel Tax increase can be implemented at a regional level and provide local funding opportunities.
Washoe County in Nevada recently approved a 2-3 Cent fuel tax increase to be implemented in January
2009.
California Clean Air Act (CCAA)- Implementation Funds (AB2766)
The San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) has implemented a vehicle registration
surcharge to fund various programs necessary to implement the provisions of the California Clean Air Act
of 1988. These funds may be used for the funding of transportation projects and planning a ctivities with
air quality benefits, such as travel demand management, transit, and land use planning . The San Luis
Obispo County APCD directs the use of those funds according to its adopted Clean Air Plan.
Appendix 4: Bicycle and Pedestrian Commuter Estimates
The number of cyclists and pedestrians commuting to work in Atascadero as cited in this plan are based
on US Census Data from 1990 (Summary Tape File 3: STF3) and 2000 (Summary File 3: SF3).
Due to the unavailability of more detailed information the City of Atascadero plans to coordinate with
local government and non-profit organizations to aid with additional research regarding local
transportation choices. A report regarding transportation choices and barriers to cycling and walking will
be utilized in the update of the Bicycle Transportation Plan in 2015.
Table 4
Means of Transportation to Work for Workers 16 years and older:
Each number indicates the total number of people using each form of transportation.
Year Total Commuters Car, Truck, Van Bicycle Walk
1990 11411 10415 91.3% 100 0.9% 240 2.1%
2000 12056 11169 92.6% 62 0.5% 175 1.5%
Change in Bicycling and Walking from 1990 to 2000:
Years Total Commuters Car, Truck, Van Bicycle Walk
1990-2000 + 645 + 5.6% + 754 + 1.3% - 38 - 0.3% - 65 - 0.6%
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Bike Collisions.Date Printed:9/1/2010Printed By: City of AtascaderoGIS DivisionofCITY ATASCADERO1 inch = 0.6 miles2007 - 2009CHP Bicycle Involved Collision Report
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 31
Appendix 6: Bicycle Facilities
Definitions of Class Types
The following class types are consistent with Highway Design Manual specifications:
Class I:
Bikeways that provide a completely separated right-of-way designated for the exclusive use of bicycles
and pedestrians with cross-flows by motorists minimized. Requirements are 8 feet wide with a minimum
2 feet graded on each side making a minimum of 12-foot wide area. See Figure 7 below.
Figure 6
Class I Bikeway Specification
Class II:
Bikeways that provide a restricted right-of-way designed for the exclusive or semi-exclusive use of
bicycles with through travel by motor vehicles or pedestrians prohibited but with vehicle parking and
cross-flows of pedestrians and motorists permitted. These are lanes striped for bicycles on streets or
highways and are intended for one-way bicycle travel. Lanes provide an indication to motorists of
possibility of cyclists and definition for cyclists of where to ride. These lanes provide continuity between
other bicycle infrastructures. The HDM requires a minimum of 5 feet where parking stalls are marked. On
a street with no gutter the bike lane should be at least 4 feet and 5 feet with a 2-foot gutter per HDM. See
Figure 8 below.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 32
Figure 7
Class II Bikeway Specifications
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 33
Class III:
Bikeways that provide a right-of-way designated by signs or permanent markings and shared with
pedestrians or motorists. These are usually preferred routes due to advantages over other routes such as
high traffic or poor road surface. Sidewalks are not recommended for Class III bikeways. Signage options
shown in Figure 9 include:
Figure 8
Class III Bikeway Signage Specifications
Bicycle Boulevard:
A roadway shared with automobiles and bicycles similar to Class III although through traffic preference is
given to bicyclists. Example might be pilings at cross streets that allow bicycle traffic to flow while
automobile traffic is diverted.
Sharrows:
As noted in Figure 10, a sharrow represents a roadway shared with automobiles where there is insufficient
width for a striped bike lane. SHARROWS, also known as shared lane markings, are on-street legends
that reinforce the existing rules of the road. They are not separate bike lanes; a motorist can still drive
over the sharrows. Motorists should expect to see and share the lane with bicyclists. Sharrows indicate to
bicyclists the best place to ride in the lane sharrows are typically used in locations where the roadway
width is not adequate to provide dedicated bike facilities or on downhill lanes where bicyclists might
travel similar speed as motor vehicles.
Figure 9
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 34
Sharrow Symbols
Bike Loop Detector:
A Bike Detector tells the signal when a motor vehicle or bicy cle is waiting for the light to turn green. Bike-
specific pavement markings indicate where to position the front wheel in order to change the signal.
Figure 10
Bike loop specifications
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 35
Channelization:
Involves how the bicycle is routed through an intersection. Because California Vehicle Code considers
bicycles “vehicles” the safest way for a bicyclist to behave in traffic is similarly to a vehicle. Because of
this, markings on the road, as shown in Figures 11-13 direct bicyclists into the proper lane position best for
creating visibility and safety for traffic.
Figures 11, 12, 13
Examples of Channelization
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 36
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 37
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 38
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 39
Bike Boxes
A bike box is another way to provide safety for cyclists at intersections. It provides bicyclists with
additional space at the front of cars queued up at an intersection.
Figure 14
Bike Box
Appendix 7: Bike Parking Programs
Short Term Bike Parking:
Short-term parking includes racks on sidewalks, in parking lots, and at special events. Below are
examples of racks. A “racks with plaques” program can be used to increase public bike parking at minimal
cost to the City.
Figure 15
Peak Rack
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 40
Figure 16
U-rack (This rack type is NOT recommended)
Long Term Bike Parking:
Long-term parking includes bike lockers (on public or private property) and bike cages (private property
only, such as work sites). Other long-term bike amenities include showers, changing rooms, and/or
indoor bike parking. These services can be provided by an employer or can be a private enterprise such as
Bike Station, a company that provides services and parking for a fee. See examples of long term parking
below in diagram/photo 5-12.
Figure 17
Bike Lockers & Cages
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 41
Figure 18
Bike Valet Parking
The Bike Valet is a volunteer run bike parking service provided by the SLO County Bicycle Coalition
aimed at making it easier for people to pedal to community events, it works just like a coat check. Upon
arrival, each rider is given a claim check tag matching the number allocated to their bike. Their bike is
carefully parked in the secure lot for the duration of the event. When they wish to retrieve their bike they
simply hand our volunteers their claim check tag and the bike is returned with ease.
With over 15,000 bikes parked the Coalition's volunteers are experts at protecting your bikes. If you
forget to pick it up we will lock it to a bike rack, sign feature, or in our storage space with a standard
bicycle cable lock and may be subject to a storage fee.
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan: September 2010 42
Appendix 8: Bicycle Safety Workshops
The SLO County Bicycle Coalition has a variety of workshops designed to meet the needs of all types of
community members.
STREET SKILLS WORKSHOP
In this workshop you will learn how to take on the road with confidence. Learn simple yet innovative
techniques to ride safely, get noticed, and gain the respect of motorists. Find out the typical scenarios
that usually lead to a crash and how to avoid them. Learn about your legal rights on a bike. We'll then
take it on the road where you'll get to put your new techniques to immediate use, such as how to
negotiate an intersection and how to take charge around all of those c ars. We guarantee that after you
leave this workshop you'll feel more empowered about taking on traffic. Workshop duration: 4.5 hours
RIDE RIGHT WORKSHOP
Get more in-depth training on bicycling in traffic. Learn how a simple thing like lane positioning can make
a big difference in how you are treated in auto traffic. Beyond that, we'll show you basic road mechanics
like how to change a flat, adjust your brakes, and even adjust your gears. Workshop duration: 5 hours
BROWN BAG SEMINAR
Interested in having a presentation on bicycling at your place of business, club, or community group? Our
one-hour seminar is a great way to introduce bicycling to your friends or colleagues.
ITEM NUMBER: 1
DATE: 09/28/10
Atascadero City Council
Staff Report – Community Services Department
Bicycle Transportation Plan
RECOMMENDATION:
City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission review and comment on the Draft
Atascadero Bicycle Transportation Plan and provide direction as necessary.
DISCUSSION:
A “bike plan” is a formal planning document that works in coordination with the City’s
General Plan circulation, land use, and safety elements. It identifies policies that will aid
in the continued development of a safer and more comprehensive bicycle system and
provides the guidance necessary to continue to improve infrastructure, the economic
environment and health of the community. Enhancing safety for cyclists is the most
effective way to encourage citizens to use bicycles for transportation. The plan
accounts for connections with other communities outside City boundaries as well.
Additionally, a comprehensive and approved bike plan will enable the City to access
major State and Federal funding for infrastructure grants.
While preparation of a city-wide Bicycle Transportation Plan has not been budgeted for
FY 10/11, the City Council identified preparation of a bike plan a goal in their strategic
planning sessions. Therefore, City staff has been in the process of pr eparing the plan
in-house, and with a team of dedicated volunteers. The Bike Plan Technical Advisory
Committee (TAC) consists of:
Dan Rivoire, San Luis Obispo Bicycle Coalition
Geiska Baker, SLOCOG
Callie Taylor, City of Atascadero
David Athey, City of Atascadero
Mike Zappas, Volunteer
Len Colamarino, Volunteer
Doug Marks, Volunteer
Bill Wachtel, Parks and Recreation Commissioner
Tom Zirk, Parks and Recreation Commissioner
Jennifer Fanning, City of Atascadero
Brady Cherry, City of Atascadero
The environmental review period is now open with a Negative Declaration for the plan
having been prepared by the Community Development Department.
Staff has prepared a PowerPoint presentation, which will outline the specific plan
features, as well as identify priority projects to guide the City for the next 5 – 15 years.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Plan development costs have been absorbed by the Community Services, Public
Works and Community Development Departments. Capital Improvement costs and
other costs indicated in the Bike Plan are not funded nor budgeted. The plan is not a
spending initiative, and does not require the City to build any of the projects identified in
the plan. The Bike Plan is a planning document that will allow the City to be eligible for
a number of State and Federal funding opportunities. The City’s ability to obtain grants
and other outside funding sources is directly linked to having an adopted Bicycle
Transportation Plan.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A – Draft Bicycle Transportation Plan