Open Space / Greenways Committee

Grosse Ile Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Commission Annual Report Feb. 2014

Status of 2013 – 2014 Objectives  Oversee the construction of the Horsemill Path and maintenance items of the Meridian Path. Mostly Achieved: The paths have some isolated issues remaining that need to be worked on this spring.

 Hold a Horsemill Path groundbreaking and ribbon cutting ceremony. Achieved: The commission set up both events which included members of the public, township elected officials, staff, and the media.

 Conduct a survey on the community’s interest in nonmotorized facilities in coordination with the Open Space Committee. Not Achieved: The Open Space Committee decided to postpone their survey, so BPAC did as well. This may be pursed in the upcoming year.

 Work with schools to reestablish a Safe Rotes to School Program that centers on education and encouragement. Partially Achieved: School officials were contacted, but activities were postponed until 2014, in order to better plan for upcoming activities such as Bike to School Day (in May).

 Submit an application for the Michigan Fitness Foundation’s Promoting Active Communities program. Achieved: BPAC successfully submitted an application and won a bronze level award.

 Create a plan to help fund the shortfall for the installation of a drinking fountain donated by the running club, the Island Road Runners. Achieved: BPAC came up with a plan for a brick-selling fundraiser to make up the shortfall. This plan was agreeable to the Island Road Runners and the Township Board.

 Interview and select an applicant to recommend to the Board to fill the vacancy left by Commissioner Bailey. Achieved: BPAC recommended the applicant, Rodger Will, to the Board. Two others applicants have volunteered to assist BPAC in various upcoming efforts.

2014 - 2015 Objectives  Finish work on the Horsemill and Meridian Paths.  Purchase a new brush head for cleaning/clearing paths.  Raise funds for the fountain via the spring/summer fundraiser and install fountain.  Establish a BPAC logo for public outreach materials.  Improve communication efforts between BPAC and other commissions and groups (e.g. Recreation, Open Space, DPS, DDA, schools, and Public Safety).  Improve BPAC’s public outreach strategy to include more online content, newspaper articles, and participation in community events.  Continue the reestablishment of the Safe Routes to School Program.  Participate in Bike to School Day (spring) and Walk to School Day (fall).  Pursue a Complete Streets policy.  Work on maintenance plan and short-term safety solutions for paths and streets.  Start work on a community nonmotorized plan.