Draft Chesterfield Bikeways & Plan Detailed Unedited Citizen Comments Compiled from district meetings, emails and internet form February 2015

Citizen Comment 1/Corresponding Response 1 Support off road facility for walking/hiking. More protection - not on road

Citizen Comment 2/Corresponding Response 1 Looking forward to adding more trails to my

Citizen Comment 3/Corresponding Response 2 Lots of debris and trespassing behind Kohl's - concern that bike route may bring more trespassing?

Citizen Comment 4/Corresponding Response 5 Not enough benefit for the people to spend the money. Not fair to those who won't use it!

Citizen Comment 5/Corresponding Response 5 Need to spend money in a more important way

Citizen Comment 6/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Develop a ranking or some sort of priority scheme to depict the build-up by year/decade

Citizen Comment 7/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Develop route/project names/identifiers to assist with prioritization and refine cost estimates

Citizen Comment 8/Corresponding Response 8 Debris collecting in on road bike paths - money available?

Citizen Comment 9/Corresponding Response 1 & 9 Aggressively seek a budget

Citizen Comment 10/Corresponding Response 10 Why do a buffered bike lane when you could do a protected bike lane?

Citizen Comment 11/Corresponding Response 10 Cyclists need separate space for riding and should use it

Citizen Comment 12/Corresponding Response 10 Do not support wide shoulder/pavement unmarked. All bike facilities should be clearly marked/identified.

Citizen Comment 13/Corresponding Response 10 Prefer path to protected bike lane - barrier could be an eyesore and maintenance costs

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 1 Citizen Comment 14/Corresponding Response 10 Don't like riding in the road, even in bike lanes, prefer paths

Citizen Comment 15/Corresponding Response 10 Would rather have a pathway than a sidewalk - more options for more users, safer

Citizen Comment 16/Corresponding Response 12 Consider location of high speed rail

Citizen Comment 17/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Look at alternate routing - Blithe Dr

Citizen Comment 18/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Formal major connections to via Falling Creek (west to East Coast )

Citizen Comment 19/Corresponding Response 31 Indicate difficulty levels of trails in plan

Citizen Comment 20/Corresponding Response 1 Consider needs of bikes and pedestrians

Citizen Comment 21/Corresponding Response 1 Love the maps and plan and am excited for implementation

Citizen Comment 22/Corresponding Response 1 I would like a along Falling Creek

Citizen Comment 23/Corresponding Response 1 Like the walkways around Manchester MS/Davis ES/Providence MS

Citizen Comment 24/Corresponding Response 1 Love the idea of bikeways! Long overdue

Citizen Comment 25/Corresponding Response 1 Bike trails are a good place to start. Recreational riders will vote with their wheels

Citizen Comment 26/Corresponding Response 1 Need new road projects along with "bikeways" such as Elkhardt - desperate need of widening and new pavement - a good project to do together

Citizen Comment 27/Corresponding Response 1 The more bike paths the better. Better for our health, air quality - make Chesterfield more attractive to healthy people looking for a place to live and work

Citizen Comment 28/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Easy/quick demonstration projects should be priority

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 2 Citizen Comment 29/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 I hope that roads that host pedestrian travel get priority

Citizen Comment 30/Corresponding Response 7 Specify where "end of trip" facilities would be placed PRIOR to approval of final plan (not in neighborhoods, maybe ok with public facilities)

Citizen Comment 31/Corresponding Response 1 Want all of it done on purpose

Citizen Comment 32/Corresponding Response 1 Like that it is safe!

Citizen Comment 33/Corresponding Response 1 We go to Richmond now - can bike for hours, stop to eat and bike more. Would love to keep our time and money local!

Citizen Comment 34/Corresponding Response 1 Like the communication and Interpretation; Ambition - Chesterfield seems to be leading; concern for public safety - glad to see our police officers here; more choices for uninterrupted cycling

Citizen Comment 35/Corresponding Response 5 I do ride a bicycle and walk. I just can't see spending the money on this project. My husband and I have found plenty of local bike paths

Citizen Comment 36/Corresponding Response 5 Concerned about the cost! The use ALL of the taxpayers money when only a few will actually use this. Some will say yes, but them will use it only a few times or never find the time.

Citizen Comment 37/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Pilot the most ready to install and/or provide the most connectivity

Citizen Comment 38/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Great addition to county, forward thinking…key will be to swiftly act on a pilot followed by major implementation

Citizen Comment 39/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Start in Chester/Chester Village

Citizen Comment 40/Corresponding Response 1 & 9 Major improvement from the 30 mile isolated segments to a 300+ mile network. Ok to use proffers and other department funds to jumpstart. Consider a big chunk ($100-150 million) as school board drops from 300 to 200 to keep rating

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 3 Citizen Comment 41/Corresponding Response 1 & 9 Concerned about funding (short and long term), support from the BOS, how long will it take, get started and focus - low hanging fruit first

Citizen Comment 42/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Like the concept of designated trails

Citizen Comment 43/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Like that this will cut down to sharing the highway with cars - not safe!

Citizen Comment 44/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Like the Shared Use Path and ability to bike for a distance

Citizen Comment 45/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 I like the protected bike lane best. If you share bikes with pedestrians, bikes come way too fast and will hit pedestrians

Citizen Comment 46/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 Like any path that facilitates access to the James River/Henricus Park

Citizen Comment 47/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 Like any path that facilitates access to the

Citizen Comment 48/Corresponding Response 1 & 17 Support any path that facilitates access to Pocahontas State Park

Citizen Comment 49/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Add Route 10, Chester to Hopewell bridge, north side of road, when upgrade project implemented. Don’t let it drag out for over 10 years to achieve

Citizen Comment 50/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Please add Chester Rd from Rt 10 to Centralia Rd. Please continue Harrowgate Rd all the way to Rt 10 (not stop at Curtis Rd)

Citizen Comment 51/Corresponding Response 1 & 32 Now is the time to secure corridors within IMBA Ride Center at Pocahontas State Park to build new multiuse trails and connector trails between existing multiuse trails that will be safe for all user groups. Waiting until after 25-30 miles of mountain-bike-only trails are built will ensure that this area will become suitable for only a single user group (mountain bikers). Is this what the county wants for this major hub in the Bikeways and Trails Plan? Please don't waste this opportunity to act now! There is little time left - the mountain biking only trails are being built now.

Citizen Comment 52/Corresponding Response 10 & 21 Need adequate lighting on trails. Designated trails vs bike lanes (if space is available with existing roads)

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 4 Citizen Comment 53/Corresponding Response 1 I like that this is finally happening. Chesterfield County calls itself a first choice community, but those are just empty words. For decades this county has failed to provide a safe environment. Walking, running or biking on all county roads is taking your life in your hands. Even being a motorist in the county is dangerous - there are almost no shoulders on any roads. Our county officials have blood on their hands each and every time a citizen is hit or killed on our roads.

Citizen Comment 54/Corresponding Response 1 My only concern is whether this plan ever materializes. The track record shown by the misplaced development of this county is over the last decades is horrible. Please make this plan a reality. Please put the needs of all county residents before the needs of land developers, builders and business.

Citizen Comment 55/Corresponding Response 1 I have been a county resident for 10 years. I am a member of RABA and also run marathons. This county sucks when it comes to safe recreation places. Please make this happen.

Citizen Comment 56/Corresponding Response 1 Just ready for approval and for work to begin

Citizen Comment 57/Corresponding Response 1 Thanks for all the work on this project!

Citizen Comment 58/Corresponding Response 2 Even our law enforcement and EMS folks would benefit from shoulders

Citizen Comment 59/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Ambitious and needs clearer plans for trails

Citizen Comment 60/Corresponding Response 10 Adding standard 6'-8' shoulders on all major roads would be a great improvement

Citizen Comment 61/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Please add crosswalks - drive a mile on Ironbridge, Hull, Midlothian Tnpk and you won't see a crosswalk

Citizen Comment 62/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Avoid Elkhardt Rd, too narrow

Citizen Comment 63/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Connect trail on River Rd to Eppington

Citizen Comment 64/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Connect Henricus to Battery Dantzler

Citizen Comment 65/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Connect to High Bridge Trail

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 5 Citizen Comment 66/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Completely outstanding! Great work. Hope it can come to fruition. Of course, would much prefer shared use path, then protected lane. Like the ability to ride downtown, James River Scenic Trails, Appomattox Scenic trail - all outstanding

Citizen Comment 67/Corresponding Response 1 Connect more nature areas

Citizen Comment 68/Corresponding Response 1 Excellent start

Citizen Comment 69/Corresponding Response 1 It is a start. I have attached a map from Irvine, California depicting the nice bike routes that bikers can safely ride without fear of being hit by vehicle traffic

Citizen Comment 70/Corresponding Response 1 Like that the plan connects to all libraries and covers a wide area of county

Citizen Comment 71/Corresponding Response 1 This is a great project! Good luck with it!

Citizen Comment 72/Corresponding Response 1 Connections to libraries

Citizen Comment 73/Corresponding Response 1 Includes direct paths to many libraries - but could use connections directly to Central Library and County Government Complex. Libraries have facilities useful to bikers, as well as being destinations. Water, restrooms, heat/AC, wi-fi, etc. Great way stations - thanks for including them in the plan!

Citizen Comment 74/Corresponding Response 1 Very exciting for our county. This will make our home a better place to live and visit!

Citizen Comment 75/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 We need choices among types shown - separate path needed on our narrow, crowned streets

Citizen Comment 76/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 More paths connecting Bermuda streets

Citizen Comment 77/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 Appomattox River Scenic Route from Amelia to Dinwiddie County

Citizen Comment 78/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 James River from Henrico County to Charles City County

Citizen Comment 79/Corresponding Response 1 & 17 Like to connect Richmond to Pocahontas State Park

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 6 Citizen Comment 80/Corresponding Response 1 & 17 Connections to Pocahontas State Park

Citizen Comment 81/Corresponding Response 18 We need more proactive bike trails by Parks and Recreation, Planning and Transportation - more team effort

Citizen Comment 82/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Mark existing bike lanes on Hwy 10 at Chesterfield going south to Chester, VA

Citizen Comment 83/Corresponding Response 1 & 27 This program could be funded by organizing bike rides where the riders pay a fee to participate, i.e. Cap to Cap bike ride in May each year that starts at Rocketts Landing

Citizen Comment 84/Corresponding Response 30 Connectivity of historic sites, with protection for sensitivity (earthworks)

Citizen Comment 85/Corresponding Response 37 More coordination with the Chesterfield Planning Department Riverfront Plan (blueways and greenways)

Citizen Comment 86/Corresponding Response 21 & 22 Connect Courthouse to Centralia via Ironbridge to access government complex and central library; Create path through Ironbridge at 288; lighting for safety

Citizen Comment 87/Corresponding Response 9 & 20 Getting the Board of Supervisors to fund the program; being able to get the roadside property owner by a private citizen; Add Hwy 10 to Beach Rd to Pocahontas; Along Hwy 80 starting at Powhatan County going south to Appomattox River

Citizen Comment 88/Corresponding Response 1 This is an impressive start! Please keep going to make this a healthy and safe community. Extensive plan to cove a lot of the county. Connecting parks/schools is a great idea.

Citizen Comment 89/Corresponding Response 1 Like everything except delayed implementation

Citizen Comment 90/Corresponding Response 1 Like the layout and legend as well as off and on road options

Citizen Comment 91/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 The roads to get to proposed bikeways are unsafe and need to allow neighborhoods to funnel onto the new trails. The need to connect to the neighborhoods and eventually not have to trailer your bike to a safe starting spot for your ride.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 7 Citizen Comment 92/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 How about connecting neighborhoods which are adjacent but are for example separated by small streams so that there are no through roads. I think would be a relatively inexpensive improvement

Citizen Comment 93/Corresponding Response 18 Hope that future projects will encourage building the path/sidewalk at same time of road construction - seems like a way to save money

Citizen Comment 94/Corresponding Response 1 Manchester and Province Middle School Areas (Rt 60, 360, Providence, Hicks, Buford, Turner, Jessup, Janke)

Citizen Comment 95/Corresponding Response 1 Thanks for sharing and taking ideas

Citizen Comment 96/Corresponding Response 1 I like the way it is tied to the City of Richmond and Capital Trail and is very future thinking

Citizen Comment 97/Corresponding Response 1 No issues or concerns - well done plan

Citizen Comment 98/Corresponding Response 1 Covers the major areas that do not currently have access

Citizen Comment 99/Corresponding Response 1 It's a start!

Citizen Comment 100/Corresponding Response 1 Please make trails connect to other trails and form loops instead of straight lines that just end

Citizen Comment 101/Corresponding Response 1 County seems well covered

Citizen Comment 102/Corresponding Response 1 This is so cool. I'm a native Vermontan where trails are like part of the DNA. I have discovered old trails that could potentially be included.

Citizen Comment 103/Corresponding Response 1 You guys are doing a great job. Keep it up! Exciting! Add sidewalks all the way down Deer Run to Alberta Smith ES

Citizen Comment 104/Corresponding Response 1 Looks good

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 8 Citizen Comment 105/Corresponding Response 1 Very well planned effort - good job! Add Woolridge Rd to cross the reservoir, that is the only way Brandermill residents can get to good routes that start on the other side of the reservoir or use Otterdale to do the same thing.

Citizen Comment 106/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Focus on completing a section of some distance - with parking - to demonstrate the draw and desirability

Citizen Comment 107/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 What is the time line!

Citizen Comment 108/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Hope funding can be found. I know there are many other priorities, but great things are happening in the Richmond region and this project could be a plus for attracting business

Citizen Comment 109/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 I like the trails off the roadways

Citizen Comment 110/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Would be nice to keep more bike paths off the road if possible

Citizen Comment 111/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 I'm all for sharing the road, but most drivers are not. We need to emphasize protected bike lanes

Citizen Comment 112/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 More greenways, less busy road paths

Citizen Comment 113/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 I like separate shared use trails. Better to have fewer good separate trails than a lot of on road dangerous trails

Citizen Comment 114/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 Neighborhood connections to main network

Citizen Comment 115/Corresponding Response 1 & 17 Like the trail along Swift Creek from Brandermill to Pocahontas State Park!

Citizen Comment 116/Corresponding Response 19 Thank you for making meetings open house style to accommodate busy folk!

Citizen Comment 117/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 A lot of biker groups use Powhite extended and Watermill to Woolridge Rd and this is not included in the plan. Also not included is Woolridge Rd, south of Genito. Add Watermill Rd

Citizen Comment 118/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Add a bike path along Coalfield Rd from YMCA to Rt 288

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 9 Citizen Comment 119/Corresponding Response 25 Ensure there is a 3' level shoulder next to the bike lane or road. That is my key determinant in choosing a route to ride. Another determination is traffic. I will go on a road if there is little traffic, even if there is no bike lane. Plan doesn't identify routes currently used by cyclists, who have to drive to a starting point. Example is south of Old Hundred Rd along Otterdale Rd or Woolridge Rd

Citizen Comment 120/Corresponding Response 1, 16, 17 & 18 I like the overall concept and the coordination with Richmond and the Capital Trail. I like that Pocahontas State Park will tie-in to the James River Parks.

Citizen Comment 121/Corresponding Response 6 & 9 Concerned about length of time required. Doesn't appear to be prioritized yet. Just wishful thinking. What will the funding needs be and who will provide?

Citizen Comment 122/Corresponding Response 1 Chesterfield, being a "first choice" community, is in desperate need of recreational projects that are accessible, safe and natural. Trails connecting homes, businesses and parks would be a great benefit to our environment, health and safety - not to mention the revenue that is generated by having these paths. I am 100% for building as many trails as necessary to connect this great county

Citizen Comment 123/Corresponding Response 3 Users should have a permit/license

Citizen Comment 124/Corresponding Response 4 Totally Opposed

Citizen Comment 125/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 Prioritize to facilitate connections for safe bike use

Citizen Comment 126/Corresponding Response 10 Interim shoulder build up at strategic places to facilitate biking safety

Citizen Comment 127/Corresponding Response 15 Educating drivers and bikers on responsibilities

Citizen Comment 128/Corresponding Response 18 More coordination when considering developments between Parks and Recreation, Planning and Transportation staff

Citizen Comment 129/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Continue path on Ironbridge to connect Courthouse Rd to Centralia Rd for access to Government Complex and Central Library

Citizen Comment 130/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Would like to see trails or at least designation on Beach and Nash Rd

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 10 Citizen Comment 131/Corresponding Response 6, 9, 12 & 17 I feel these are the TOP FIVE projects that should be built in order listed: 1. Highway 1 from Richmond (Richmond/Williamsburg Bike Trail) connecting to Colonial Height, Fort Lee and Petersburg, 2. City of Richmond down Hwy 10 to Pocahontas State Park and to Petersburg, 3. Courthouse Road to Pocahontas to City of Hopewell, 4. All smaller trails East and North of these major cross county trails Southern and western trails last. Great start including Parks, Schools and Libraries; but should include overlays of Churches, colleges, old railroad roadbeds and any public facility whose right of way could be accessed as a portion of a desired trail path at little or no extra cost. Also, add overlays of major Dominion power and Columbia Gas and large corporation right of ways that could be subleased at $1.00 for 100 years. Give the public an idea of the COST of a project of this magnitude and sources of funding. Hopefully private. Competition for highway and road maintenance funding (VDOT) is intense and our county roads need lots of repair and widening. Identify the sources of funding in mind now and ask the public for proposed additional sources of funding and/or donated labor and materials: corporations along the route, prison labor, AmeriCorps, private churches, associations (e.g. boy and girl scouts, cycling and hiking leagues, institutes, etc.) Select interns from county prisons, schools, colleges to use this plan as a springboard to learning. How to plan, develop, design, fund, organize, manage and implement a large project. Make it competitive. Assign ownership and provide rewards for performance: Letters of Recommendation, commendation, early release, college or high school credit, etc. Coordinate with surrounding cities and counties to bring connector trails into their jurisdictions to stimulate inter area travel and commerce. Civil War Petersburg could be a great draw users to walk, run or ride South and along the James River. Work the most populated areas first to use existing assets.

Citizen Comment 132/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 I was disappointed not to see Old Buckingham Road between Midlothian and the town center area deemed appropriate for connectivity for shopping, historical interpretation, schools, parks, shoring up of aging neighborhoods, etc. especially given the large amount of existing r/w available for use. Could you explain the priorities utilized to come up with the proposed plan? I am having trouble seeing how connecting the mines park with Farnham Drive as an east west route helps out anyone other than Stonehenge, not a particularly at risk neighborhood. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss these questions at your convenience. Best regards.

Citizen Comment 133/Corresponding Response 1, 19 & 21 I have read the Bikeways and Trails Plan, have reviewed the associated maps and am pleased with the results. All of the major concerns I voiced and the suggestions I made are incorporated in the plan. What is not clear, however, is how the on-road facilities will be designed and built. The high volume of traffic and speed of that traffic on roads like Charter Colony, Courthouse and Genito have to be carefully addressed. In addition, crossing of major arteries like Midlothian Tpke, and Hull Street must be designed in a way that bikers and pedestrians, alike, would feel safe when making the crossing. I would be interested in providing specific input as the plan moves forward. In addition, as an avid biker and semi- retired communications professional, I would be interested in learning more about the Bikeways and Trail Coordinator position referenced in the draft plan on page 13.Thanks to all who have contributed to this excellent document.

Citizen Comment 134/Corresponding Response 3 & 5 How is the plan to be funded? I raise this question simply out of concern for non-bike riders paying for someone else to ride. Are you considering license and/or registration fees to offset the cost? Many other states and localities apply fees to bikers. If that is the case then I can support the proposal, otherwise I am adamantly opposed.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 11

Citizen Comment 135/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 I am very happy to hear that Chesterfield County is considering expanding our bike lanes and pedestrian paths in an effort to make Chesterfield a more bikeable, walkable, and livable place! Reviewing the map of proposed paths, I would like to make one suggestion. I would think that the county's parks and waterways would all be destinations to which people would want to walk and bike. Therefore, I think it would be a good idea to provide people easier access to Lake Chesdin Park and the Appomattox River by adding a path from River Road to the park, as highlighted in the graphic below. Thank you for all your work in this effort.

Citizen Comment 136/Corresponding Response 8 How will the bike lanes be cleaned? Many have complained that the bike lanes pop tires and therefore even if they are there most ride on the white line or travel lane because of the debris.

Citizen Comment 137/Corresponding Response 10 General support of the plan, but needs to further address bicycling as a means of transportation for everyone, not just experienced cyclist, by focusing on safe, protected infrastructure like paved trails. Needs more detail for local destinations.

Citizen Comment 138/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Too bad the East Coast Greenway does not go through Chester – the village atmosphere would be great a good stop.

Citizen Comment 139/Corresponding Response 1 Riding bikes for a transportation option, not just recreation - connect safely/conveniently between nodes like home/library/school/downtown Richmond

Citizen Comment 140/Corresponding Response 1 Connect to existing trails and facilities

Citizen Comment 141/Corresponding Response 1 Be wary of dead-end trails (Chester Linear Park). How do you get on? Where do you end?

Citizen Comment 142/Corresponding Response 2 Enforce cycling regulations, especially in the rural Matoaca District

Citizen Comment 143/Corresponding Response 8 Keep bike lanes clear and clean

Citizen Comment 144/Corresponding Response 8 Maintenance and safety concerns - keep up facilities

Citizen Comment 145/Corresponding Response 1 &10 Prefer buffer/protected bike lanes

Citizen Comment 146/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Wide outside lane option is not adequate to keep motorists aware of their responsibility to share the space

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 12

Citizen Comment 147/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Bicycle safety first!

Citizen Comment 148/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 Car lanes do not need to be 12' wide (VDOT and NACTO supports)

Citizen Comment 149/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 More neighborhood connector paths - a cost effective way to ride on low traffic streets and still get around

Citizen Comment 150/Corresponding Response 1 & 11 Work with local homeowner associations to build connectors to main arteries/roadways/trails

Citizen Comment 151/Corresponding Response 12 Try to use power line rights of way more - reduces right of way acquisition and may be safer

Citizen Comment 152/Corresponding Response 12 Use railroad track easements as linear trail/facility

Citizen Comment 153/Corresponding Response 13 Improve communication of county projects to the public

Citizen Comment 154/Corresponding Response 13 Better communication with county for events, meetings, etc. via web

Citizen Comment 155/Corresponding Response 14 Lots of "Share the Road" signs on all roads. I think these really work to show drivers that cyclists are entitled to ride on roads, especially when no off-street bike routes are available

Citizen Comment 146/Corresponding Response 21 Why not encircle Chesterfield Towne Center to reinforce economic engine/tax base (and build on the MIRR project)

Citizen Comment 157/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Bailey Bridge - fix from Manchester High School to Spring Run Elementary School

Citizen Comment 158/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Use Rt 288 median between Rt 360 and Chester Rd for bike facility

Citizen Comment 159/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Put Chester Rd on plan

Citizen Comment 160/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Add Qualla Rd as a facility

Citizen Comment 161/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Deer Run Path (paved and existing on google) between Birkdale and Deer Run (under power line)

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 13

Citizen Comment 162/Corresponding Response 26 Costs - how to pay for this?

Citizen Comment 163/Corresponding Response 34 Consider ATV and horses

Citizen Comment 164/Corresponding Response 35 Don't use eminent domain to build trails

Citizen Comment 165/Corresponding Response 36 Where will you park to get onto system until connected?

Citizen Comment 166/Corresponding Response 2, 4, 13, 20 & 21 Top reasons Chesterfield County needs to say NO to adding bike lanes. Road bikes pose a hazard to all road traffic and a risk to themselves when riding along narrow rural roads with cars at 50 mph. Such roads are Beach, Winterpock, Woodpecker and River Rd. 2 lane roads should be exempt from any request to add bike lanes. It is just not safe. Road bikers are continuously breaking the same laws cars are required to obey (not stopping at lights and stop signs). They also ride side by side on country roads and create an unsafe environment for cars to pass. Road bikers are not policed to ensure that they DO obey the laws of the road. Roads in Chesterfield County vary from up to 8-10 feet wide per lane. Matoaca district comprises the majority of rural roads with vehicles such as dump trucks, horse trailers, farming equipment and buses. There is no room on the roads for these to pass each other safely, now factor a biker who is taking up half a lane and no way for others to pass? Cars cannot pass road bikes where double yellow lanes are present and still maintain the required 3 feet of space around the bike. To do so would put the driver at risk of not only an accident but an unsafe driving ticket. Residents of the rural communities of Chesterfield County will not benefit from any invitation to bikers coming to these roads. They will be, however, be targeted as the ones who will have to deal with the unsafe driving, rude bikers and additional traffic that they live in the country to avoid. Not to mention where they are going to park, litter they leave and the cost to us living in the country. These are not residents of Chesterfield county but rather Richmond. Avid biker groups and those promoting outdoor activities as a way to boost the economy are selfishly doing so at the expense of the people who live here...and not telling the whole story. Statistics have shown biking accidents and happen more to men and deaths are not uncommon when bikes and cars collide. Get the facts first. 2% of all traffic deaths in 2011 were bikers (677 bicyclists). Existing communication for bike races has failed to inform residents of road closures and the impacts of bike races in the area. Experience has shown that these sporting companies have done badly in the past and don't care to tell residents of what is coming. We have to find out the hard way and we don't forget these easily. Western Chesterfield has few back up and/or parallel roads to divert car flow when races would occur (closing 360 for a few hours created such havoc that county officials should have been concerned). Now add in bike races along Beach Road, River Road or Woodpecker Road and you have isolated residents for hours, prevented health care workers from reaching ill patients, parents bringing children to activities, and the daily going on of families who live along these proposed roads. Who determines what people will be preyed upon by these sports backers to achieve their agenda? Who has the right to take away our quality of life? Chesterfield County does not have the funds to acquire land rightfully owned by residents of the county along proposed roads when there are other priorities that should be addressed. Regardless of the VDOT expectation to include bike paths, the county needs to provide reason as to WHY THESE BIKE LANES CANNOT BE DONE, since they are not in the best interest of the tax payers and residents.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 14

Citizen Comment 167/Corresponding Response 1 I like the proposed bike route on Winterpock Rd because there is no shoulder at all which poses a safety concern

Citizen Comment 168/Corresponding Response 1 I like the Chester Linear Rail Bed

Citizen Comment 169/Corresponding Response 1 I'm happy to see proposed Chester Linear Railroad Trail. At present, too many bikers ride along Branders Bridge Rd which is a very dangerous road to bike on. Some bikers may not realize this until they are on the road.

Citizen Comment 170/Corresponding Response 1 I appreciate the county trying to find safe ways for people to be able to bike and walk. Having bike trails available for people to use will be beneficial for those who want to ride for fun and exercise. I live off of Winterpock/Hull/Beach Roads and see many people riding unsafely on Beach Rd. I hope the trails will help alleviate some of the safely issues.

Citizen Comment 171/Corresponding Response 2 Bikers are not good road riders (not following laws and poor manners)

Citizen Comment 172/Corresponding Response 2 Bikes present road hazard on rural roads

Citizen Comment 173/Corresponding Response 2 Issues arise from large ride events at Pocahontas

Citizen Comment 174/Corresponding Response 2 Police not enforcing the laws with bike riders

Citizen Comment 175/Corresponding Response 3 Cyclists do not pay into the system to support their riding (seen as a hobby and compared to hunting and boating, which have fees and permits to purchase) – should enact a user fee on bikes

Citizen Comment 176/Corresponding Response 4 Cyclists should go to Richmond and Pocahontas trails to ride

Citizen Comment 177/Corresponding Response 4 Person bought in the rural area for the lifestyle there - plan improvements would conflict with their wants

Citizen Comment 178/Corresponding Response 4 Not in favor of giving their land for paths (county would have to condemn)

Citizen Comment 179/Corresponding Response 5 Should use all funds to fix our roads first before any bike improvements

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 15

Citizen Comment 180/Corresponding Response 13 We should have sent individual notices to all county residents for the meetings

Citizen Comment 181/Corresponding Response 23 3’ ft. rule on passing bikes cannot be accomplished safely

Citizen Comment 182/Corresponding Response 24 Should pass law to restrict bike riders on rural road, unsafe

Citizen Comment 183/Corresponding Response 1 Crater Planning District Commission gets calls for tourists looking for long distance bike routes - especially with civil war and history sites

Citizen Comment 184/Corresponding Response 2 Need level shoulders for emergency car situations in addition to providing bike facility

Citizen Comment 185/Corresponding Response 2 Why don't county transportation projects have bicycle and pedestrian accommodations? (like causeway over Swift Creek Reservoir)

Citizen Comment 186/Corresponding Response 8 Bike lanes are great, but must be maintained (kept clear of gravel, glass, car parts, trash, tree limbs, etc.)

Citizen Comment 187/Corresponding Response 10 Prefer buffered bike lane over shared use path

Citizen Comment 188/Corresponding Response 10 I prefer the shared use path

Citizen Comment 189/Corresponding Response 10 The old bike paths on the roads are horrible and unsafe

Citizen Comment 190/Corresponding Response 10 We prefer shared use paths

Citizen Comment 191/Corresponding Response 10 Shared use paths need to be wider in population centers (dogs, strollers, bikers

Citizen Comment 192/Corresponding Response 10 Consider rumble strips in the buffer strip to alert drivers when they are veering off road (consumes less roadway)

Citizen Comment 193/Corresponding Response 11 Need lots of connector trails between neighborhoods

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 16

Citizen Comment 194/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Add Old Buckingham Rd to network - leverage historical assets, shopping, reinforce older neighborhoods, use existing right of way to add paths, not improve road, connect to Midlothian Mines Park, and connect to Chesterfield Towne Center, hospital and major employment

Citizen Comment 195/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Add Woolridge Rd (causeway) as a southern connection for northern Brandermill

Citizen Comment 196/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 If you can't add the Woolridge Rd causeway, add Otterdale Rd as a southern connection for northern Brandermill

Citizen Comment 197/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Consider/re-evaluate Salisbury/Winterfield Rd that is currently marked at US Bike Route 1

Citizen Comment 198/Corresponding Response 38 Did you consider ADA specifications?

Citizen Comment 199/Corresponding Response 10 Can't tell since the map is not detailed enough. I see one I might be able to reach by foot but not sure where it is and it doesn't go in the direction I am wishing there were one. (toward businesses I might want to walk to in old age, though I may leave here at some point since they have already cut down the pretty trees without consulting us and I moved here only for the schools which was a mistake since my son was repeatedly attacked there.) I was hoping for something walkable down Providence Rd and maybe even Buford Rd, but there may not be enough room for either since the houses are close especially on Providence, plus there is a wide and deep ditch. People do walk it, to travel to drug stores, Sheetz, restaurants, elementary school, or wherever but having tried that I felt it was too risky unless improvements were made. (It would be nice to be able to walk to the corner school to vote, but I am assigned to a school far away with its own ditch and traffic problems instead, and where I once had to leave due to no parking even along the road.)Thank you for your work. If I move I would certainly consider a trail to be a big plus; in fact at one time I had viewed Henrico properties based on proximity to a park with good trails (though they kept developing more buildings in there and driving out wildlife)

Citizen Comment 200/Corresponding Response 1 It's great to hear about these meetings! Unfortunately I am out of town until early March. My strong belief is that if you build it...they will come. Even neighborhood sidewalks would be a huge improvement in many communities and are a stimulus for people to get out and walk! The Grove neighborhood is a great example with its many walkways which are always filled with walkers and runners. Feel free to use my comments in your meetings. Thanks for your email and efforts to improve the health of our communities.

Citizen Comment 201/Corresponding Response 1 Excellent work. One existing trail is missing from your inventory: the trail at the government center complex (behind the Eanes-Pittman Building and extending behind Lucy Corr Village).

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 17

Citizen Comment 202/Corresponding Response 1 & 16 In the area, there are 2 other wonderful historic sites: Henricus and Drewery's Bluff. I'd like to see some historic value added to the bike trail. Suppose there was a Native American section of the trail controlled by Native Americans from their viewpoint. Is it possible to turn over part of that land for that purpose? It would generate money for the county without costing the county much money. There are Native American exhibits, even in Henricus, but they did not originate with Native Americans. This fact alone, would draw many visitors and it would be unique to find such a site outside of a reservation. It would also be interesting to have some way to link the three areas by water. I envision a tour boat similar to what is in Shockhoe Bottom which would serve the same purpose as the trolley used to link attractions in the cultural loop of Richmond. I would like to keep the James River pristine and hope that there would not be much development along the river. It is one of the things that sets the Richmond Metro area apart from other cities. Buildings eventually fall into disrepair and cost millions or billions to repair if there is a flood. Encouraging rafting, kayaking, canoeing or a place to swim would be lovely.

Citizen Comment 203/Corresponding Response 10 Would you identify the areas where bike trails are proposed to be built that are well off roads and highways? Based on the map it appears that most of the proposed bikeways are along busy roads. If this is the case we are spending a lot of time about nothing. We already have a lot of these dangerous roads to ride on. Please tell me that I am wrong as I hope that I am wrong. Specifically, (locations by name please) where are the proposed trails for bikes and pedestrians that are fully off roads and highways?

Citizen Comment 204/Corresponding Response 3 & 6 This will be a total waste of TAXPAYER money, Federal money is TAXPAYER money also. Will you require all bikes on these pathways to purchase a yearly license to help with building and maintenance cost? These pathways will take private property and will be used by a very small minority of Chesterfield Residence. I you can see, I am totally against this project.

Citizen Comment 205/Corresponding Response 1 & 10 The plan looks great. I cycle all around the country when on vacation. My suggestion is to only use Bike Lanes with Buffers (Bollards). A wide left lane or even with a paved buffer is too dangerous. Texting, talking, drunk driving, distractions, etc. make driving without some sort of barrier that gives the driver of a car instant feedback will save many lives, prevent serious injuries, and give people (myself included) more confidence that I can go riding safely. If the bollards are too costly, I remember that in Dallas, Texas, they place a string of bumps (about the size of half grapefruits) to give the driver "bump feedback" when they veer off the road. I will be looking forward to seeing proposed dates for the plan. Currently we enjoy the Capital Trail and this will be great for Chesterfield County.

Citizen Comment 206/Corresponding Response 2 & 21 NO to lanes on McRae Rd and Old Bon Air Rd!! This is a historic area. It is NOT a place for yards and the character of Bon Air to be eroded for recreational bicyclists.

Citizen Comment 207/Corresponding Response 18 While I support the concept I am concerned about a family cemetery at Pocahontas State Park in Poorhouse loop (Dance/Gill Family Cemetery) that will allow Hiking, Biking and Horseback riding. This cemetery was once fenced, however, it has been stolen, probably by people timbering lumber. We do care for the cemetery and family will go in to clean it. It has been cleaned with help of Sheriff's Dept. since 3 county sheriff's buried here. I consider it a historic cemetery and it is registered with the Dept. of

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 18 Historic Resources. We have been working with Irene Frenze at the park to help preserve this site. We have experience horses riding up in the cemetery. This could allow for Tomb Stones to be destroyed and knocked over. Also people walking/riding the trails have found it and wondered/walked it. It is important to us that this cemetery not be disturbed or destroyed. I am requesting consideration of fencing this cemetery in order to keep people from entering it that should not be there. Also - it should be POSTED NO Trespassing. I will be at the meeting Thursday night. I am surprised that I have not been notified of these meeting since I have expressed concern with Jon Lugbill and Irene Frenze. The previous comments submitted regarding Dance Gill Cemetery located at Pocahontas State Park were from Relations to the cemetery - Granddaughter, Great Granddaughter.

Citizen Comment 208/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 The plan should identify parking areas where Bike Riders, Hikers can park their vehicles when accessing the trails in cases where residents cannot safely bike or walk to one of the trails.

Citizen Comment 209/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Please add sidewalks on Springford Parkway. This would allow connections at Winterpock and Spring Run Road. More than 1000 people live in the Collington neighborhood that would utilize the sidewalk.

Citizen Comment 210/Corresponding Response 1, 21 & 22 I think it's great. I just hope that crossing of larger roads, like Hull Street will be with a pedestrian bridge or something similar. I remember when we first moved here, a man died crossing Hull Street near Walmsley Rd.

Citizen Comment 211/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 I am very disappointed not to have seen any proposed paths on Walton Bluff Parkway or Queensgate. Walton Bluff Pkwy is a narrow road with lots of curves and no shoulder whatsoever. Lots of people jog and walk there, some even with strollers or dogs. A lot of them don't move over when a car approaches and expect the motor traffic to wait until they can cross the double yellow line to get by. It is a very dangerous situation. Queensgate Rd is not much better. I would really like to see a bike lane or at least a bit of a shoulder. Thanks for listening.

Citizen Comment 212/Corresponding Response 1 I love the direction that this is headed. I would definitely use my bike for more than just recreation if there were safe paths to get to work, stores, or restaurants. This is an investment in the future and people shouldn't worry about how much or little the current population will use it. Build it for 20 years from now when people and businesses will include proximity to the bikeways in their decisions. Something like this will help make Chesterfield County the preferred location for people who are home- shopping in the greater Richmond area.

Citizen Comment 213/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 I would like to see Branchway Rd included in the plan. The short 2 block stretch would allow bikers (and walkers) a direct route to Chesterfield Towne Center from the south.

Citizen Comment 214/Corresponding Response 1 Congratulations to the Bikeways and Trails Plan team on a thorough, thoughtfully-planned approach! The County has already made an important investment in the health and quality of life of this community by developing the plan to this point, and I look forward to watching it become a reality.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 19 Citizen Comment 215/Corresponding Response 1 Live in the Bermuda District next to the Meadowville Technology Park and liked what we saw on the map for our area. Our main concern is keeping bicyclist off of North Enon Church Road. It already has way more traffic than ever designed to handle because of the Technology Park.

Citizen Comment 216/Corresponding Response 1 It would be a dream come true to be able to step outside of my house in Chester, onto Chester Linear Park, and be able to walk and bike to parks, conservation areas, river and lake trails, etc., all over the county, as well as to gain access to other trails that are being built in surrounding counties.

Citizen Comment 217/Corresponding Response 1 & 2 Speaking for myself, I would prefer to see more bicycle accommodations on lower speed and lower volume roads that would be safer for bicyclists than roads without shoulders or with posted speeds of 45 mph, way above what most people can ride at. I also recommend looking at the STRAVA HEATMAP, which already shows where people are preferring or need to ride. I think more people want to ride more for health, economy, and convenience, but feel the need to be safer than they currently feel in many of the locations where they might like to ride. I like the many ways you are looking at to add improved opportunities for a variety of bicycle and related modes of alternative transportation!

Citizen Comment 218/Corresponding Response 1, 2 & 10 Designating appropriate areas for walkers and those who bike, would not only be beneficial for leisure. It would be affording safety to those walkers/bikers who would use them daily as a means to get to work and back home. Responsibility to the safety of our county population, which has increased because of development, that same increase and development has caused overcrowding to once rural roadways, with no true solution for our citizens safety as we try to adapt. Responsibility for the safety of our Citizens.

Citizen Comment 219/Corresponding Response 1, 9, 10 & 11 I would like to see more connector trails, going from neighborhood to neighborhood, like the ones in the Grove. The county needs to put in shared us pathways, so that there is a barrier between the pedestrians and vehicles. Also, these pathways should be put in near schools, so that students who live near their home schools can walk to school; this would be physically healthy for the kids and reduce transportation costs. I live near Evergreen Elementary School and it's too dangerous for the kids to walk such a short distance from the neighborhoods nearby. The fact that this was not considered in the original construction of this roadway is ridiculous. My hope is that the county will take the time and money to install shared use pathways throughout the county, so that homeowners, like myself, aren't risking their lives just to go for a walk near their homes. I would be willing to pay more taxes to see this happen. Thank you for your consideration!

Citizen Comment 220/Corresponding Response 1 I really like the plan. It is a big step towards making the county more bike and pedestrian friendly.

Citizen Comment 221/Corresponding Response 1, 16 & 17 A path following Swift Creek from the reservoir to Pocahontas State Park would be awesome! It would need to link up with Deer Run. We need sidewalks ALL THE WAY down Deer Run Drive to Alberta Smith Elementary! We need protected sidewalks all the way across the Woolridge Causeway!! It's so weird that sidewalks wouldn't be built there in the first place. There also needs to be little spots to pull off the road and enjoy the view or go fishing.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 20

Citizen Comment 222/Corresponding Response 1 & 18 After viewing the NPS Trails System, and Chesterfield’s plan, it is apparent that we could indeed connect our historical points of the Howlett Trail through a rail to trail system such as appears in part of the NPS plan already. Chesterfield currently has no plan to connect these points. Whereas these points are already cited in the Petersburg NPS maps with connections in Henrico Parks and in Petersburg/Prince George/Dinwiddie’s Eastern Front, it is a shame not to include the important Confederate and Union sites of the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. This campaign raged and languished at intervals between May 6, 1864 and April 2, 1865. The Chesterfield battlefields have been identified by the Civil War Preservation Trust in 2005 as endangered due to adverse sprawl. To link these parks for access by trails and bikers would improve health, educations, and culture. The Civil War Sites Advisory committee has identified Bermuda Hundred important battlegrounds as Chester Station, Drewry’s Bluff, Port Walthall Junction, Proctor’s Creek, Swift Creek, and Ware Bottom Church. Chesterfield has taken some steps to preserve these sites. Now we should connect them through rails to trails systems as possible along the Howlett Line to our new parks at Point of Rocks, Garland Dodd/Point of Rocks House and Grounds, and the new Natural Conservation Area and into Colonial Heights, and Petersburg and link with Richmond and Henrico important battlefields. We should also complete the trail system identified in the Comp Plan by Facilities/Parks and Recreation: FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS, 2013‐2017, • Lower James River Linear Park: develop a trail along the James River from Falling Creek to the City of Hopewell.• Appomattox River Linear Park: develop a trail along the Appomattox River from Hull Street Road to R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks.• Appomattox River Blueway: develop a water trail along the Appomattox River from Hull Street Road to R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks. Additional comment is for Chesterfield to have coordination during the zoning/proffer period between Parks and Recreation, Transportation, and Development Staff to build in connections for biking and trails for our citizens. With much that is still undeveloped, staff could go a long way towards a more healthy lifestyle for our citizens. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Citizen Comment 223/Corresponding Response 1 US bicycle route 1 from Charter Colony Road to Salisbury may benefit cyclists by routing them away from Winterfield. This can be accomplished by routing to Salisbury Dr. Although Salisbury Dr is blocked for car traffic there is a walking/biking path at the end of Salisbury Dr. About the last 100 feet of Salisbury Dr is not paved but gravel. And leads up to the walking/bicycle path. This path is also not paved but is a very short distance of less than 10 yards then connects to Salisbury pavement. Routing to Salisbury Dr may be accomplished by routing from Winterfield through the adjacent shopping center or routing from Woodridge across Midlothian to Mt Pisgah from behind the shopping center in front of Buckingham apts.

Citizen Comment 224/Corresponding Response 1, 8, 11 & 17 I support the bikeway plan. I live off Winterpock Road and for the past 10 years have been biking in the River Road/Beach Road area. It's a great area to ride but the interaction of cyclists with automobiles can be difficult due to the narrow and winding roads and undulating terrain. It would be great to have bike lanes along the road to provide for more room for drivers to pass safely. The caveat to this is that the bike lanes have to be kept clear of trash, gravel, sand and broken glass or riders will ignore them. From experience I can say that I'm not going to ride in a bike lane or dodge in and out of a bike lane to miss trash in the lane. To support Pocahontas Park it would be great to have a bike lane that went along Spring Run Road to Qualla or from Springford Parkway to Bailey Bridge road past Manchester High

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 21 School to Claypoint Road and then to Qualla Road and Newby's bridge to Courthouse. This would nearly circumnavigate the entire park. Think of all the Subdivisions that could be connected to Pocahontas by that route. Several thousand homes would be a bike ride away from the park.

Citizen Comment 225/Corresponding Response 20 & 21 Sorry I know this is a half day late, but I'm sending my two comments anyway. Why not any effort into Forrest Hill Ave, especially since the city is doing work on its end? Second, you have placed a separated shared use facility, literally, in my "backyard", except I assume it will be on County easement/ property. I live on Thurloe Dr. What's the expectation of use and impact on property owners there? What is the value impact for resale with a project like this? Is there any compensation for property owners? Do you need an easement? How much use is expected? Will you provide some separation - like a fence along the path to separate it from my yard? Most people have substantial gardens back there and many of us run our dogs in this zone too so you'll need to be doing a lot of outreach along there. I am an avid cyclist so I would like to work with the County on this but still need to ask these questions to protect my investments and family.

Citizen Comment 226/Corresponding Response 1 I hope there will be discussion and action as to how to add bike lanes in several neighborhoods. I live near Thomas Dale, and I currently do not feel it is safe to bike in my neighborhood --though I am an avid cyclist. I'd love to make the Kroger shopping area more bike accessible so I could bike to the store for my groceries. Right now, that doesn't seem feasible. Or bike to the Y. Can we make Osborne Road bike- friendly? Thank you.

Citizen Comment 227/Corresponding Response 1 I am for it 100%

Citizen Comment 228/Corresponding Response 33 There was only one sentence that addresses law enforcement on these new trails. You had better take a serious look at your police department since it is seriously underfunded, undermanned, and very low morale. These trails that are off the road will allow an entire new dynamic of crime that patrolmen in cars are not going to be able to address. National average for communities is 2.1 officers per 1000 citizens. We are nowhere near that.

Citizen Comment 229/Corresponding Response 1, 6 & 10 Thank you - a huge improvement over what is available today! Some comments for further improvement: 1. Please add language that requires all new secondary roads and all improvements to secondary roads, strongly consider incorporating facilities to accommodate bikes/pedestrians. For example, we live in Hallsley subdivision (off Old Hundred Rd) - our developer was required to improve Old Hundred Rd from Hallsley to Otterdale Rd. The work was done in summer 2013. The road was improved to (in each direction): (I) a 10 ft. travel lane; (ii) a 1 ft. paved shoulder; and (iii) a 6 ft. grass shoulder. If the 6 ft. grass shoulder would have been paved, there would be a nice start to a bike/pedestrian facility that could be added to in future years (and would have met the "paved shoulder" facility addressed on pg 20 of the draft plan). As it stands now, the 6 ft. grass shoulder provides virtually no benefit to bikes/pedestrians. 2. Please add the section of Old Hundred Rd from Woolridge Rd (once extended to Old Hundred) to Midlothian Trnpk to the Proposed Routes with bike/pedestrian facilities in the plan. As mentioned, we live in Hallsley which is going to be a large community and we will be encircled with Proposed Routes but no way to access from our subdivision. Please also consider adding Otterdale Rd to the plan as there are many subdivisions that connect into

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 22 Otterdale and many developments still being added. This also would benefit if developers were required to add paved shoulders to roadway improvements when the developments are put in. 3. Please add more specific targeted timeframes/dates for implementation of the plan. Thank you again for your efforts to develop the plan.

Citizen Comment 230/Corresponding Response 1, 2, 6, 10, 11 & 16 Dear County Staff, Thank you for your work! Having moved to Chesterfield County from Beach three years ago, my wife and I have loved the history, the beauty (or at least the change of scenery), and the neighbors we have met. We purposefully bought a house to make a home. Not a house to flip, not an asset, but a place to raise our children and get to know my neighbors. We knew that it was a blue- collar area, most of my friends gave us an eyebrow, but we bought to be a blessing to others and not move out once we can sell our house for a profit. It makes me really, really happy to see the Chesterfield County Bikeways and Trails Plan. There are several awesome benefits to these plans: 1. Currently, my children are "landlocked" in our neighborhood (which does not have sidewalks). To get to Bensley Park, they must cross Jefferson Davis Highway, which is an ABSOLUTE death sentence for any minor wishing to cross the street. 2. There is a very large amount of foot, bicycle, and wheelchair traffic on Jefferson Davis Highway. To get to work, they are often on the road before dawn and long after sundown. It is VERY dangerous as the cars traveling 45+ mph are clearing the pedestrians by 12 inches. Many of these pedestrians are carrying children or groceries, or BOTH! Often they are pushing a stroller and holding a child by the hand. My skin crawls when I think about what would happen if that child tripped or slipped in the mud. 3. Currently, there is no way to cross Falling creek on Jefferson Davis Highway unless the pedestrian walks on the road. This needs to be remedied! There used to be a bridge, but that was destroyed in a flood before I moved here. 4. I am hugely in favor of Separate Shared Use Facilities Proposed Route Connecting the Falling Creek Ironworks Park with Drewry's bluff. These are two beautifully overlooked areas that are just waiting to be re-discovered by the communities. My wife and friends would use this path nearly daily for running and bicycling if it were built. In short, as a husband, father, and homeowner, I highly encourage you to proceed in haste with the proposed plans. I especially support the trails along the Jefferson Davis Highway Corridor and James River. I also advocate for residents in this area who are in great NEED of safe access to Route 1 (Jefferson Davis Highway) for their daily living. I ask that these trails/routes be a priority to do the revitalization efforts. Thank you for your consideration.

Citizen Comment 231/Corresponding Response 1 & 9 I would like to comment on the Bikeways and Trails plan for the county. I believe this is an excellent use of the money within the county. These activities lend to improved health for our children and our adults. This helps because it should assist in the reduction of absences from school because our children will be in better shape from riding. It also goes a long way into the development of healthy families as this would give families something to do together that's safe and fun. Walking trails allow people to reduce the carbon footprint on their neighborhoods and the areas that they frequent. Walking trails also provide an opportunity to appreciate nature and all that's beautiful about Chesterfield County. Thank you!

Citizen Comment 232/Corresponding Response 10, 16 & 17 The proposed trails and bike facilities on the plan are very exciting! I think one of the most important things is to connect Richmond to Pocahontas State Park along both the East Coast Greenway and Courthouse Rd. Currently, the route along Courthouse is intimidating for many riders because the bike lane disappears at all intersections. Bicyclists May Use Full Lane signs are great, and welcome, but that road has a 45 mph speed limit and cars drive 55 so using the lane is not necessarily the safest option.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 23 Also, having a bike lane along the length of Huguenot Road from the James River to Midlothian Turnpike would be a great way to ensure the safety of commuters and recreational riders, as that is a direct and convenient route for both.

Citizen Comment 233/Corresponding Response 2 & 10 233, I support any plan that will get the cyclists OFF the shoulders of BEACH ROAD. The cyclists are a nightmare and they are a danger to themselves and drivers, especially when Pocahontas holds their biking events.

Citizen Comment 234/Corresponding Response 1 This is real progress! I'm proud to see Chesterfield making a serious effort to make the county more bikeable and walkable. Times are changing and people want choices like those outlined in the draft plan. Great job!

Citizen Comment 235/Corresponding Response 1, 2 & 10 I find the separation of motorized traffic and the bicyclists is a must. The buffered bike zone as well as the protected bike lane ideas should be implemented on the roads with highest motor traffic like Midlothian Tnpk. Personally I commute to community college and go mostly through neighborhood streets where the speeds are low and feel safe on those. Yet I have gone down Midlothian Tnpk a few time only for a half mile or so and noticed how dangerous it felt. Nowadays drivers seem more and more guilty of not having their eyes on the road 100% of the time. Leaving anyone jogging or cycling in great danger. Overall the plan does look good and I hope this gets more people out riding.

Citizen Comment 236/Corresponding Response 2 & 5 I do not support any bike trails along River Rd, Beach Rd, or Winterpock Rd. These 3 roads are already extremely dangerous for the traffic in the area. They are filled with blind curves, bus stops and are heavily used for people driving to get to work. They are also already used by competitive cyclists who ignore the basic laws of the road. These people put lives at risk on a daily basis while training for upcoming races. They ride side by side, in the center of the lane and are unseen when approaching blind curves and hills. You might say this is a perfect argument for building bike lanes. No, it's not because building that extra strip of pavement will only encourage the usage of these roads by novice bike riders and children and these 3 roads are not safe for either. Just because a line is there doesn't mean that a car will always be able to maintain the space it has and stay on the left of the line. It also doesn't promise that cyclists will stay on the path. Having the extra space will encourage bike groups to travel on these roads ever more and when they do, they ride in tandem clogging up traffic and putting lives at risk. Traffic along Winterpock and Beach looks much like a train from 6:30 to 10 am and then again from 2:30 to 6:30. This leaves only a midday window of time where traffic is low without buses and commuters trying to get where they need to be. I also do not support any proposal that would rely on county funds until we have replaced the 500 teacher positions lost within the county plus the additional positions of about 38 a year for the last 2 years as well as this year due to student growth in the county. Class size has been something that is looked at as a "new norm". We absolutely must look back to the 1990s when class sizes for most elementary rooms did not exceed 20 or 21. PTR is a relative term if using the statistics created by adding in every special end teacher and speech pathologist. We want to see the actual classroom size look like a picture of 20 kids and 1 teacher. This should be our goal and until we reach that goal, riding bikes can be achieved in the many parks and neighborhoods that support the effort with extensive trails. I don't see many riding to work on a bike. I see competitive riders clogging up our roads. Every person I know in Chesterfield has children or grandchildren in our schools (100s of people) - I know 1 person who rides his bike on our roads. One. We need to use taxpayer dollars

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 24 with a priority. If it's all federally and state funded by grants that could only be achieved for this purpose, fine, but if it's going to use any county dollars, I am firmly against this. A senior center and more funds in our schools should be our priority right now.

Citizen Comment 237/Corresponding Response 6 & 18 Confused about the proposed/actual route of the East Coast Greenway being shown in different locations on different maps. Through Pocahontas Park in the Plan map and east of the park on the DCR Regional Trail Efforts map. I'm excited, but we need to figure out how to make this a priority. 348 miles proposed and we have only built 25 miles since 1749. I'm glad we're working with our neighbors for an integrated solution that considers what is going on at our borders and believe it is a good plan to have bikeways on both sides of the Appomattox. Interested in helping, such as with the GIS effort.

Citizen Comment 238/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 The section of 360 just past 288 in the Clover Hill District is still not being addressed. There is a large section preventing anyone on a bike from going west on 360 from Old Hundred to just past the Water Treatment Plant without potentially getting hit by a car. The bridge it too narrow to allow safe travel of a bike and cars. I will not be able to attend the meeting this evening and would like to ensure this section is addressed. Please help.

Citizen Comment 239/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 I live in Bon Air right off of Buford Road. I walk every day but I know it is extremely dangerous because there are no sidewalks. If there were sidewalks on Buford Road, it would be possible to walk to the grocery store, drug store and shops along Midlothian Turnpike. Another good location for sidewalks would be Pinetta Drive. This would allow people to walk to the Post Office and also the shops and restaurants on Midlothian Turnpike. As it is right now, there isn't room to walk on the side of the road without stepping into the street.

Citizen Comment 240/Corresponding Response 18 Having a dedicated individual to handle this is a great idea...hire me!

Citizen Comment 241/Corresponding Response 1, 6, 11, 17 & 28 1. The overall plan is GREAT - I think that there is a silent majority of citizens in the county that would love to see trails, greenways, and safe bikeways along roads that would connect people to places - stores, schools and parks. Thank you for doing this! Raleigh, NC began their plan in 1974 - and today has over 100 miles of trails and bike/walk paths - which are frequently used and enjoyed. I know as I have been there. 2. The Rivanna Trails Foundation in Charlottesville, which formed in 1992 -uses a revocable trail easement with landowners. This should be explored - even to the point of seeking citizens to form a similar Foundation. 3. In Dale district, there is an abandoned rail line from Nash rd. to Beach running N/S that is privately owned that runs in part through Woodland Pond subdivision - it could connect residents of the Highlands and Woodland Pond to Pocahontas Park. In its heyday at the turn of the 20th century, the Bright Hope Railway — later the Tidewater and Western — connected the eastern and western ends of Chesterfield. The railroad eventually stretched 89 miles from the busy shipping docks on the James River at Bermuda Hundred to Farmville. 4. Priority Project - Create a safe crossing into Pocahontas at Woodland Pond Parkway and Beach Rd. I think this could be done at a low cost and provide a connection for Woodland Pond and Highlands residents to Pocahontas Park!

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 25

Citizen Comment 242/Corresponding Response 10 & 17 I think it's a great idea, I bike at Pocahontas and this plan would let me ride from my home on Newby's Bridge Road all the way to the park and further. I never want to ride from home because the speed limit on Courthouse is 45-55mph and there is not enough room for a bike and 2 passing cars. Hope it passes!

Citizen Comment 243/Corresponding Response 1 Yes to bike and path trails

Citizen Comment 244/Corresponding Response 1 In regards to the historic Bermuda area, the bike trail would mean a great deal to assist in revitalization which is so greatly needed on this area Also, adding a spoke to the trails over to the Jeff Davis corridor with sidewalks would greatly improve the safety of walkers & bike riders in this area. Thank You!

Citizen Comment 245/Corresponding Response 1 This is so exciting. Bravo to the county staff for putting together such a thorough plan that everyone in chesterfield can take advantage of.

Citizen Comment 246/Corresponding Response 1 & 22 Will there be any parking added if you can't safely to a trail on your bike?

Citizen Comment 247/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 I'm commenting on the Bermuda area, I live in Bensley and have my whole life (34 years) like most Bensley residents we cherish the history we have in this once beautiful neighborhood. I really really hope that the Bermuda area gets this bike trail connecting all of the historic places that made Chesterfield County what it is today. Please don't let this great area get looked over like it normally does.

Citizen Comment 248/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 This is an outstanding and encouraging proposal, thank you! One strong recommendation is to prioritize a bike trail on Old Gun Rd. This is one of the more heavily used 'bike trails' in the County, while it is also one of the least safe due to narrow width and sharp curves...I would be surprised if there has not been injury or death to cyclists or pedestrians to date. The ability to safely walk, bike, and otherwise use the road for non-vehicular traffic would be an enormous boost to this area of the County. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Citizen Comment 249/Corresponding Response 1 & 9 I am impressed with and support this bikeway and trails initiative. It will help to attract people in their 20s and 30s to Chesterfield to build a technology experienced work force. People in this age group particularly desire opportunities to bike, hike, and walk in general. That is one reason many locate in the city. Cash proffers can be used to help build the networks. A developer that builds a section of the network specified in the Plan through their property that is open to the public should get a credit for the cost towards the recreation portion of the development's cash proffer amount.

Citizen Comment 250/Corresponding Response 1 I love what you've done with the stretch along Hull Street. Especially the area around Manchester Middle. Also love that Manchester, Davis, and Providence schools will be connected.

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 26

Citizen Comment 251/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Dear Committee, I would have liked to see the sidewalk on the west side of LeGordon Drive to our community because to cross over to Charter Colony is very dangerous for our children. Maybe you could bring it up to a crosswalk painted on the roadway to let drivers know that there is a crossing for pedestrians that they need to be aware of if you place the walkway on the east side of the street. Please check the safety aspect of this project too.

Citizen Comment 252/Corresponding Response 29 I belong to the Old Dominion Hiking Club. We love hiking off road, and frequently have over 30 hikers on any given hike. The trails in Pocahontas State Park have worked beautifully in the past, but a large section of the park is being taken over by single use mountain bikers. I am looking for other hiking venues within Chesterfield County. Rockwood Park is one of the few county parks where, by using all of the trails, one can achieve a 5-mile hike. I was/am hopeful that the county's plan will not serve bikers to the exclusion of hikers.

Citizen Comment 253/Corresponding Response 1, 10 & 19 I enjoyed meeting Heather and Brian at the February 3 meeting. The graphics were very impressive and tells me this is a serious endeavor. Not a great fan of on the road, I am particularly interested in the "green" line from Stratton Park down to Falling Creek to LaPrade and into Rockwood Park and beyond. My opinion is the creation of this route would be a safe, scenic, and significant kick-off to the entire project. Of course, I live near LaPrade and it would be great to get on the bike without first loading it on the car. Please keep me informed as your work progresses and thank you again for initiating a great idea.

Citizen Comment 254/Corresponding Response 1 Love the proposed routes; sure hope they come to fruition. Any connections to the Greenway and access to the VA Capital Trail would be WONDERFUL!!! I would like to have seen something along Hull Street, allowing people to walk to/from Commonwealth 20 Cinemas and the neighboring shops. Maybe in the next go round???

Citizen Comment 1255/Corresponding Response 1 & 21 Would love to see more bicycle lanes within the Deer Run neighborhood.

Citizen Comment 256/Corresponding Response 1, 10, 12, 16 & 17 I feel that the County should focus on combined use access ways along roadways that are separated from vehicular traffic by curbs or ditches such as paths and sidewalks. While I am a biking enthusiast, I don't feel that bike lanes provide sufficient passage for walkers and non-sporting bikers. One location for example at the entrance to the County from Richmond along Midlothian Turnpike has no access way other than a worn dirt path 2' from the curb and is used by numerous pedestrians who attend Virginia College and work in businesses along Midlothian. A separated sidewalk should be the norm for such locations. The sidewalks through Chester along Route 10 are an example of an extremely valuable asset to the citizens for work and recreation and should be duplicated in cross county projects. From a parks prospective, I would like to emphasize off roadway trails along creeks, sewage force mains, water distribution mains and such to link parks and recreation areas. Examples are the buttermilk and north bank trails in downtown Richmond and the Rivanna trails in Charlottesville. One route that I would highly encourage would be along Swift Creek from the Reservoir to Pocahontas.

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Citizen Comment 257/Corresponding Response 1, 12, 16 & 17 I attended the open houses at the Manchester and Swift Creek YMCAs and was impressed by what I saw! I am glad to see my county actively planning for this type of infrastructure. I realize it may take a while for many of the bike lanes or trails to materialize but this is a necessary first step. I like the idea of trails that follow our creeks (Swift Creek and Falling Creek) as these paths will be away from traffic and are a good outdoor activity for adults and families with kids. I understand that Dominion Power is receptive to possible use of their power line easements for trails and I think this is a real opportunity for the county. I would like to point out a paved trail in the Deer Run area of the county that is already in place in a power line easement. The trail (which is in disrepair) runs between Whirlaway Drive and Deer Run Drive at Alberta Smith Elementary school (it is labeled "Deer Run Walking Trail" on Google Maps). The power line continues northeast past Smith Elementary and intersects with Swift Creek near Bailey Bridge Road. A trail on this power line easement could connect the hundreds of homes in the Deer Run/Triple Crown/Winners Circle/Antlers Ridge/Spring Trace neighborhoods to a future trail along Swift Creek (which is on the draft map) and on to Pocahontas State Park. Thanks to the county staff for their work in putting together this forward looking plan!

Citizen Comment 258/Corresponding Response 1, 16 & 22 Thank you to the Chesterfield County Planning Department for addressing the important issue of how to increase biking and walking in our community. I support the goals of the bikeways and trails plan and was happy to learn of the coordination between this plan and other localities and regions. I agree that our health, environment and quality of life can be improved through well designed infrastructure and policies. Of the general steps described, I am very supportive of a complete streets policy, improving consistency of on-road bikeways signage, and identifying a bikeways and trails coordinator to implement this plan. In addition, I am very supportive of a James River Scenic Trail. Bicycle parking is needed in the Robious Landing Park. Thank you very much.

Citizen Comment 259/Corresponding Response 1 & 6 I support additional pedestrian/bicycle facilities throughout Chesterfield. I do think that the County Officials should consider connecting existing trails/sidewalks as a priority over longer trails and sidewalks where there currently are none. I live in the Collington Subdivision and there is a connecting sidewalk to Spring Run Elementary School on Springford Pkwy. In addition, there were road construction projects that incorporated sidewalks and wide shoulders for bicycles on McEnnally and Spring Run Road in front of Swift Creek Baptist Church. There is no connection between Spring Run Elementary and the existing sidewalk on Spring Run Road nor is it proposed in this plan. If the trail were to be built on Winterpock as identified, there is no connection for any of the neighborhoods along Springford Pkwy or Spring Run Road. The current sidewalk on Springford Pkwy ends at the elementary school. A sidewalk on either side of Spring Run Road would service many neighborhoods and make a connection to existing sidewalks on Spring Run Road and McEnnally providing safe pedestrian access to local shopping areas, the church, other neighborhoods, schools and promote a healthier active lifestyle.

Citizen Comment 260/Corresponding Response 1, 9, 20 & 18 The plan certainly seems comprehensive and has a decent scope from a biker's point of view. I am very concerned that funding, both for the paths/marking themselves and mostly for the right of way will be extremely difficult to come by--but it doesn't do any of us any good to think small. Admittedly I didn't read the plan in detail, but does it intersect with city of Richmond's bikeways plan? Ideally one selling point would be to provide a bikeway into Richmond (and out of Richmond) for work and pleasure

Bikeways and Trails Plan Citizen Comments February 2015 28 commuting. Thanks for the hard work and hope you can finish some of the bikeways while I'm still able to bike...

Citizen Comment 261/Corresponding Response 8 & 20 Ref: Proposed Bike Trail coming though the Bermuda District. I am a resident on Ramblewood Dr and my property will be affected by the bike trail. We have several concerns that our property will be affected since we do own a section of the power line which both of our driveways, septic drain field and fencing along with plantings that are all located on the power line. Included on the property/power line is a cell tower located which is required to have a locked entry for AT&T people to work on the tower and component station. By the map it appears the trail comes through my front yard/power line and since my driveway entrances cuts through the power line field I do not want to be yielding to bike riders on my property to enter my address. That is an accident waiting to happen since it's more than my family but delivery drivers and utility people entering the property as well as drivers pulling in to turn around that is a regular occurrence. Some of the proposed trail will not back up to rear yards but cutting through the owners rear yards as the power line runs in their backyards. Their properties have acreage that are on both sides of the power lines. Another issue is the electrical towers which is an open opportunity for the public to climb upon. Also Dominion Power & Asplundh Tree Service who maintains the lines and towers who have to have access to come in ,which we have provided locations for them to enter. The bike trail needs to be more thought out and looked at more closely in the cases here on Ramblewood. I would in person look at the individual properties to see the effects and unique situations. If a bike lane is needed I would agree to a lane be installed in combo with the road instead of cutting corners by installing one on a power line. A question that will be asked is maintenance and clean up of debris from the public using the facility. Thank You.

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