Transylvania County BICYCLE PLAN
Prepared for Transylvania County 2019 Prepared by Alta Planning + Design ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks to the local residents, business leaders, community leaders, and government staff who participated in the development of this study through meetings, events, volunteering, interviews, and review. Special thanks to the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club for providing the match for this planning grant, and to those stakeholders who participated as stakeholder group members, listed below. PROJECT STAFF Joy Fields, Planning & Community Development, Transylvania County
STAKEHOLDER GROUP MEMBERS Travis Book, Resident Mark Burrows, Resident David Carter, Transylvania County Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) Dave Casey, US Forest Service Daniel Cobb, City of Brevard Planning & Zoning Bob Cole, Resident Gary Daniel, City of Brevard Council Wes Dickson, Sycamore Cycles John Ditillo, Resident Vicki Eastland, Land of Sky RPO Economic and Community Development Tad Fogel, Blue Ridge Bicycle Club; Friends of the Ecusta Trail Jonathan Griffin, Transylvania County Phil Harris, City of Brevard Police Department Mike Hawkins, Transylvania County Board of Commissioners Colin Izzard, CTS Train Right David Joyce, Brevard College President Alan Justice, Transylvania County Schools Sarah Knox, Resident Nick Kroncke, Land of Sky RPO Economic and Community Development Rick Lasater, Resident Robert Lawson, Resident Suzanne Lawson, Cedar Mountain Community Center Bryan Lopez, NCDOT Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Clark Lovelace, Brevard/Transylvania County Chamber of Commerce Ray Miller, Resident Jackie Moore, Active Routes to School Coordinator, Region 1 Adam Perkins, Resident Daniel Sapp, Resident/Bicycle industry Patrick Scott, US Forest Service Paula Stone, Resident Mark Tooley, Transylvania County TAC Bryan Townsend, Oskar Blues Davis Wax, US Forest Service Jim Whitcomb, Resident Jimmy Whitmire, Transylvania County Agricultural Advisory Board/TAC Steve Williams, NCDOT Division 14
PROJECT CONSULTANTS Matt Hayes, Vice President, Alta Planning + Design Steve Bzomowski, Senior Planner, Alta Planning + Design
PROJECT CONTACT Joy Fields, Planning and Community Development, Transylvania County 106 East Morgan Street, Suite 207, Brevard, NC 28712 planning.transylvaniacounty.org
Cover photos courtesy of Carmichael Training Systems (upper left and bottom photo) CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION DESIGN RESOURCES Project Background...... 5 Appendix A 01 Planning Process Flowchart...... 6 Vision and Goals...... 7 The Value of Bikeable Communities...... 8 FUNDING RESOURCES Appendix B EXISTING CONDITIONS Existing Conditions...... 17 PUBLIC INPUT 02 Plan Review...... 19 Bicycle Level of Comfort...... 20 Appendix C Bicycle Crashes...... 21 Public Input Summary...... 22 EXISTING CONDITIONS Appendix D RECOMMENDATIONS Overview...... 25 Bicycle Facility Types...... 26 03 RECOMMENDATIONS Projects in Development...... 28 Priority Network...... 29 Appendix E Comprehensive Network...... 37 Program Recommendations...... 38 Policy Considerations...... 46
IMPLEMENTATION Overview...... 49 04 Key Steps...... 49 Project Development Opportunities...... 50 Key Partners in Implementation...... 51 Performance Measures...... 52 Facility Development Methods...... 52 TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY planning.transylvaniacounty.org
In 2017, Transylvania County was awarded a grant from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation (DBPT), to 2019 develop a comprehensive bicycle plan. The local match for the grant was provided by the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club. This was only the third time a North Carolina county received such an PLAN VISION award to-date. Transylvania County will The Transylvania County Bicycle Plan provides a framework for the county, residents, developers, NCDOT, and other have an interconnected regional planning partners to strategically build better connections for bicycling in the county. The plan provides PRIORITY NETWORK: MAP 3.2 detailed recommendations for bicycle facilities, policies, network of paved paths, Over time, opportunities to implement this priority network will invovle multiple jurisdictions, and funding sources. The elements of this priority network were the most consistently mentioned in stakeholder group meetings and public programs,outreach, and each and component implementation. strategically adds value by connecting This key destinations plan aims across Transylvania to use County. This map includes the following elements.
bike lanes, and other bike bicycling• SharedShared Use Use Path Pathas Spines ‘Spines’a tool - These for projects improvements reach out in each directiony of in Transylvania mobility, County, providing safety, a physically a Transylvaniaseparated County/Brevard‘spine’ that can Interface form the key building blocks for comprehensivew connectivity between or through Transylvania k health,Shared Use economy, Path Spines environment, andr y overall quality of life. Transylcaniacommunities. County Bike Route Priorities a a P TransylvaniaShared Use Path County/Brevard Spines Interface w y • Transylvania County/Brevard Interface - As the Brevard bicyclek networka continues to develop, multijurisdictional infrastructure that will Existing Shared Use Path HAYWOOD COUNTY e r Transylvania County/Brevard Interface w Transylcaniaefforts will County be needed Bike Route to Prioritiesconnect this network beyond theg Citya k of Brevard municipal limits. P In Development d r Transylcania County Bike Route Priorities i a • ExistingTransylvania Shared UseCounty Path Bike RouteHAYWOOD Priorities - COUNTYHigher trafficR e P volume, higher speed sections of these routes should be Hiking/Mt Biking Trails g InExistingimproved Development Shared first Use Pathwith higher degreesHAYWOOD of separation COUNTY frome automobilee traffic to the extent possible. u d i g HENDERSON provide greater safety, health, PRIORITYProtected Lands NETWORK:l R MAP 3.2 In Development d COUNTY Hiking/Mt Biking Trails B i e R Hiking/Mt Biking Trails Protected Lands u i HENDERSON l e K ng
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details, please see Chapter 3 of the full plan; SOUTH CAROLINA available at: planning.transylvaniacounty.org RECOMMENDATIONS l 29
1 l EXECUTIVE SUMMARY GOALS
INCREASE SAFETY Address the safety and level of comfort of the transportation system for bicyclists and motorists; Reduce the number of bicycle crashes, injuries, and fatalities over time. ENHANCE HEALTH Provide transportation options and recreational opportunities that promote an active lifestyle. ENHANCE CONNECTIVITY Create a well-connected network of bicycle-friendly streets and paths as part of a diverse network of transportation options in Transylvania County. MOUNTAIN BIKING INCREASE LIVABILITY THROUGH ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE While Transylvania County Implementincludes over 200 infrastructure to accommodate all modes of transportation to miles of mountain biking trails in Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest,improve and Gorges the State overall quality of life in Transylvania County. Park, additional opportunities for mountain biking trails and parks shouldPOSITIVELY be explored and IMPACT ECONOMIC HEALTH connected through the county. Transylvania County Parks and RecreationRecognize should consider the economic benefits of a bicycle-friendly community, and including mountain biking trails in future park MOUNTAIN BIKING development and programming.capitalize To allow families on the INFRASTRUCTUREreturn on investment for bikeways and greenways. to enjoy mountain biking together, beginning While Transylvania County includes over 200 routes suitable for childrenPROMOTE and adults need EQUITY miles of mountain biking trails in Pisgah National to be added to compliment the intermediate Forest, DuPont State Forest, and Gorges State and advanced facilities foundCreate in the a state network and Park, of bike additional routes opportunities that allow for ALL mountain county residents to access national forests. biking trails and parks should be explored and parks and activityconnected centers through by biking. the county. Transylvania Infrastructure specific to mountain biking is County Parks and Recreation should consider generally not considered PROTECT during roadway/ THE ENVIRONMENTincluding mountain biking trails in future park transportation improvement projects. However, development and programming. To allow families bicycle infrastructureWATCH FOR projects MEPromote NC:recommended MEDIA access in toto naturalenjoy mountain resources biking together, through beginning strategic implementation of this plan willCAMPAIGN enhance connectivity to mountain routes suitable for children and adults need biking trailsIn 2018, and Transylvania destinations.future County’s Planning Transylvania shared Department use to paths.beEducational added to complimentand Enforcement the intermediate Activities County haspulled become together a world a number class mountain of organizations biking to assistand advancedWatch for Me facilities NC materials found were in distributed the state to insurance and destination,with and the Watchmountain for Me biking NC campaign.infrastructure The City of nationalcompanies, forests. displayed at local bike shops and outfitters, Brevard’s Police Department is a great advocate for and made available at Pisgah National Forest, DuPont connectivity should continue to be a priority. the program and the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club works InfrastructureState Forest, specific and Gorges to State mountain Park. Children biking and is young hard to help educate the public. Other Watch for adults in Transylvania County received information at RepresentativesMe NC partnersof the include:mountain biking industry generallyelementary not schools considered and summer during camps. roadway/ that havePROGRAMS participated in this process should ANDbe transportation POLICIES improvement projects. However, • Brevard College bicycleTransylvania infrastructure County projects kicked offrecommended their Watch in for Me NC includedPorgram on the Bicycle andand Pedestrian policy Advisory recommendations are essential and POLICY CONSIDERATIONS • Blue Ridge Bicycle Club this plancampaign willAbove: enhance at highly a Fourth detailedconnectivity of July maps, festival, forto purchase, mountain where have thousands The policy considerations presented in the tables on the following pages were developed through the lens of Committee recommended in this plan (see pages been produced by the Pisgah Map Company showing the project vision and goals, specifically, the vision of making Transylvania County a place where:Transylvania • City of Brevard bikingof locals trailsall mountain and and visitors biking destinations. received trails in programPisgah Transylvania National materials. Forest Staff County will have an interconnected network of paved paths, bike lanes, and other bike infrastructure that will 49 & 51).complementary to improvements inRanger infrastructure. District and DuPont State Forest. For provide greater safety, health, connectivity, and alternative transportation routes between communities and • Friends of Ecusta Trail Countywere has also become on hand a worldwith a classpublic mountain safety booth biking at the Oskar destinations in Transylvania County and throughout the region. details,• Land of Skyplease Regional Councilsee Chapter 3 of BluestheLeft: Festival full The in plan;mission late July. of the availableThe Transylvania county worked County at:to Schoolsintroduce destination,Cycling and Club formountain middle andbiking high infrastructure school students, is TABLE 4.1 • Transylvania County Health Department the goals“To assist of Watch kids in forfinding Me NCa lifelong to both love the of the area’s outdoors diverse Topics/Strategies General Recommendations connectivity should continue to be a priority. Support bike accommodations by roadway type See Chapter 4 of the NCDOT Complete Streets Planning and Design Guidelines for recommendations of bikeway planning.transylvaniacounty.org• Transylvania County Parks and Recreation rural throughand municipal mountain enforcement biking, within agencies, a supportive and spent type by roadway type. Consider including these guidelines by reference in local design guidance or requirements. community.” (Image from the Transylvania County Department time communicating with the county Transportation The NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide provides additional design details for various on-street bikeway Schools Cycling Club website). treatments and could be adopted by reference in regional ordinances and/or engineering standards. Many cities • Transylvania County Sheriff’s Department RepresentativesAdvisory Board of and the to mountainthe regions’ biking Safe Routesindustry to School have taken this approach. Below and to the left: The Brevard College Cycling Resources: that havecoordinator. participated in this process should be FHWA Small Town and Rural Multimodal Network Guide: http://ruraldesignguide.com/ Team competes at the highest levels collegiately, NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design-guide/ FHWA Separated Bikelane Planning and Design Guide: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/ included onwinning the Bicycle seven team and nationalPedestrian championships Advisory and publications/separated_bikelane_pdg/page00.cfm nine individual national titles since 2007 (Image from Above: highly detailed maps, for purchase, have Key Outcomes During the future amendments to the subdivision Consider requirements for greenway reservation, dedication, or provision in new developments where a greenway Committeethe recommendedBike Transylvania website).in this plan (see pages ordinance considerbeen requiring dedication, produced byor trail the is shown Pisgah on an adopted Map plan or where Company a property connects showing to an existing or proposed greenway. Where reservation or developmentall mountain of greenways with new biking greenway construction trails incannot Pisgahpolitically be required, National consider offering Forest incentives in the form of reduced fees, cost 49 & Watch51). for Me NC billboards created a buzz around development, redevelopment, and roadway projects sharing, density bonuses, or reduction in other open space requirements when adopted greenway alignments are Further information on existing programs and for subdivisions withRanger over 10 lots. District andconstructed DuPont through private State development. Forest. See the incentives offered by the City of Asheville to promote public Transylvaniaresources, County. including Officials mountain biking,also cantook be foundan innovative policy goals. For example: http://www.ashevillenc.gov/departments/sustainability/resources.htm on pages 12 & 13 in Appendix D. Left: The missionFor additionalof the examples Transylvania of incentives, see also: https://www.law.ufl.edu/_pdf/academics/centers-clinics/clinics/County Schools approach to spreading the word about safety by pressure Cycling Club for conservation/resources/incentive_strategies.pdfmiddle and high school students, is washing stencils into the sidewalk of US 64. Awareness “To assist kids in Ideally,finding development a regulationslifelong should love require the ofconstruction the outdoors and maintenance of greenways to local standards through mountainunless a maintenance biking, agreement withinis established with aa local government. supportive about bicycle and pedestrian safety issues were raised in See requirements in Wake Forest, NC UDO, Section 6.8.2 Greenways: “When required by Wake Forest Open Space community.” (Image& Greenways fromPlan or the Wake the Forest Transylvania Transportation Plan, greenways County and multi-use paths shall be provided the county through staff interviews on WSQL and press Schools Cycling Clubaccording towebsite). the provisions [that follow in the section cited above].” http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx Good Model: (New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance): The Riverfront Mixed Use District includes the following releases. Two targeted enforcement campaigns were held provision: “Riverfront facilities shall provide multi-modal transportation opportunities, including public boating, Below and to thewalking, left: bicycling, and publicThe bus or Brevardwater taxi uses and theCollege facilities necessary Cycling for such uses.” in the latter part of 2018. Team competes at the highest levels collegiately, Require new bike lanes, greenways, etc., to connect Connectivity of facilities is critical for walking and biking conditions. New commercial development should be to existing facilitieswinning when located along seven a priority required team to connect national to or extend existing bicyclechampionships and pedestrian facilities. and project identified in Chapter 3. nine individual nationalSee: titles since 2007 (Image from Chapters 6 of Wake Forest, NC UDO for recommendations for bikeways and greenways, esp. sections 6.5.3, 6.8.2, Lessons Learned and Recommendations the Bike Transylvania6.9, 6.10. http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx website). Chapter 7 of the Wilson, NC UDO regarding greenways. http://www.wilsonnc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ Transylvania County should continue engaging and Further informationCH-7-Parks-Open-Space.pdf on existing programs and Good Model: (New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance): The EDZD Zoning District provides points for new expanding upon the Watch for Me NC campaign (such resources, includingdevelopments mountain that connect to the existingbiking, bikeway networkcan andbe key destinationsfound and provides a good definition of as incorporating programmatic elements from Vision on pages 12 & 13the bikewayin Appendix network. (Section 54.1-14D. and following.) Adopt traffic calming programs, policies, and Traffic calming tools are especially important where bike routes or bike boulevards are proposed on local residential Zero (visionzeronetwork.org) and Strive Not to Drive standards in areas of the county where the or sub-collector streets. community has identified this as a need The National Complete Streets Coalition provides good guidelines for traffic calming through their best practices (http://www.strivenottodrive.org/)). Improving bicycle Traffic calming on local streets increases safety and manual: (https://smartgrowthamerica.org/resources/). comfort for all roadway users, including cyclists. It also increases neighborhood livability. See also the NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide section on Bicycle Boulevards and the FHWA Traffic Calming infrastructure will increase the effectiveness of education, Primer: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/speedmgt/traffic_calm.cfm as multi-faceted efforts are needed to increase bicycle Consider requiring other traffic calming measures that improve the pedestrian and biking environment such as friendliness of Transylvania County. street trees, narrow street width standards, and T intersections.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 43
46 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 2
“Watch for Me NC” example materials.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 43
40 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Photo courtesy of Carmichael Training Systems VI l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN PROJECT BACKGROUND PLANNING PROCESS In 2017, Transylvania County was awarded a The planning process for the bike plan began grant from the North Carolina Department of in early 2018 with a project kickoff meeting. A Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Bicycle and Stakeholder Group, formed of representatives Pedestrian Transportation (DBPT), to develop a from multiple agencies, along with citizens, comprehensive bicycle plan. The local match for guided the process and provided input and critical the grant was provided by the Blue Ridge Bicycle feedback. The public was invited to participate Club. This was only the third time a North Carolina through multiple events, including public open county received such an award to-date. house workshops, stakeholder group meetings, and the county’s website. The Transylvania County Bicycle Plan provides a framework for the county, residents, developers, Project planners collected local data and analyzed NCDOT, and other regional planning partners existing conditions. From there, the team to strategically build better connections for developed a draft bicycle network, based on past bicycling in the county. The plan provides detailed plans, existing conditions analysis, and initial public recommendations for bicycle facilities, policies, feedback. The proposed network was refined programs, and implementation. This plan aims through a process of multiple draft reviews and to use bicycling as a tool for improvements in revisions, with feedback from county staff, NCDOT, mobility, safety, health, economy, environment, a public workshop, and review by the Stakeholder and overall quality of life. Group.
Transylvania County has long supported the goal of The Stakeholder Group met at key stages improving bicycle transportation and recreation as throughout development of the plan, with evident in formally adopted plans, hosting events members representing multiple perspectives. such as the 2011 Southern Regional Mountain The full list of Stakeholder Group members can Biking Summit, and in public feedback. World class be found in the acknowledgments section of this mountain biking in Transylvania County has been plan. The bicycle planning process flowchart is featured in numerous publications including Bike found on page 6. Magazine’s Bible of Bike Tests. STUDY AREA Most importantly, the recent 2025 Transylvania The Transylvania County Bicycle Plan focuses on County Comprehensive Plan identified the unincorporated portions of Transylvania County. themes of economic health, environment, land However, the county worked closely with with the use and livability, and health/culture/equity as incorporated communities of Brevard and Rosman priorities for the county. This bicycle plan and its to ensure that efforts were tied together and recommendations support each of these themes. compatible. The county also includes large sections One of the Comprehensive Plan’s action steps of Pisgah National Forest. Again, the county is to: “Develop appropriate infrastructure and worked closely with representatives from the NC educational programs for bikes and pedestrians and US Forest Service to understand the need and to ensure safer roads.” This action step supports opportunities for bikeway improvements. Objective 2 under Land Use and Livability that states “Ensures public safety efforts are financially The county includes some of the most beautiful supported, well-coordinated and prepared for areas of North Carolina, from rural rolling hills future growth.” and farms, to small towns, to stunning mountains, with abundant recreational activities. With unique The Transylvania County Strategic Plan outlines six topography and high elevations, the study took goals with implementation strategies. While this into account the significant constraints that exist plan supports all six goals in some manner, Goal #5 for expanding a bicycle network in the rural would be most directly supported by this bicycle portions of the county. plan, with Goal #5 stating that “The community’s quality of life includes resources that promote VISION AND GOALS health, transportation connectivity, a sense of Using the 2025 Comprehensive Plan as a place, cultural heritage and public safety.” foundation, the vision and goals were developed through a combination of Stakeholder Group input Lastly, the provision of more walking, biking trails, and public input. The vision statement and goals and greenways was the number one priority that are found on page 7. came out of the stakeholder engagement process for the Transylvania County Parks & Recreation Plan. INTRODUCTION l 5 TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN PLANNING PROCESS FLOWCHART
Community Outreach Stakeholders and General Public
1 2 3 4 5 Begin Data Draft Bicycle Draft Complete Final Plan Implementation Collection/ Network Planning Draft Plan & & Final Analysis Report Review Presentations Spring 2018 Summer 2018 Fall 2018 Fall 2018 Fall/Winter 2019 2018/2019
Public engagement took place throughout the county to ensure geographic representation and ease of the local populations to attend. These photos feature one of the events held at the Little River Community Center.
6 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN VISION STATEMENT
Transylvania County will have an interconnected network of paved paths, bike lanes, and other bike infrastructure that will provide greater safety, health, connectivity, and alternative transportation routes between communities and destinations in Transylvania County and throughout the region.
GOALS:
INCREASE SAFETY Address the safety and level of comfort of the transportation system for bicyclists and motorists; Reduce the number of bicycle crashes, injuries, and fatalities over time. ENHANCE HEALTH Provide transportation options and recreational opportunities that promote an active lifestyle. ENHANCE CONNECTIVITY Create a well-connected network of bicycle-friendly streets and paths as part of a diverse network of transportation options in Transylvania County. INCREASE LIVABILITY THROUGH ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION Implement infrastructure to accommodate all modes of transportation to improve the overall quality of life in Transylvania County.
POSITIVELY IMPACT ECONOMIC HEALTH Recognize the economic benefits of a bicycle-friendly community, and capitalize on the return on investment for bikeways and greenways. PROMOTE EQUITY Create a network of bike routes that allow ALL county residents to access parks and activity centers by biking. PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT Promote access to natural resources through strategic implementation of future shared use paths.
INTRODUCTION l 7 THE VALUE OF BIKEABLE COMMUNITIES Average number Potential benefits for Transylvania County in of bicyclists and supporting and implementing this plan include pedestrians killed each improvements in safety, health, economic impact, mobility, and environmental stewardship. year in North Carolina (169 pedestrians & 24 SAFETY bicyclists) Trends and Challenges According to a survey of 16,000 North Carolina 193 residents for the 2011 North Carolina Bicycle and Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Pedestrian Safety Summit, the most commonly Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). (American Community Survey 3-yr estimates for 2007, 2010, and reported safety issue for walking and bicycling 2013). was inadequate infrastructure (75%).1 A lack of bicycle facilities, such as bicycle lanes, sidepaths, greenways, and safe crossings, lead to unsafe conditions for bicyclists.
• From 2007-2015, there were 17 documented bicycle crashes within Transylvania County. 60% This leaves Transylvania County 49th out of 100 NC counties in bicycle crashes per capita (lowest to highest). • In 2017, 15% of all traffic fatalities in North Carolina were bicyclists and pedestrians.2 Shared use paths (like the Brevard • North Carolina is ranked as one of the least Greenway) reduce injury rates for cyclists, safe states for bicycling (44th).3 pedestrians, and other nonmotorized modes by 60% compared with on street Improving Safety facilities. Separate studies conducted by the Federal Source: Teschke, Kay. “Route Infrastructure and the Risk of Injuries Highway Administration and the University to Bicyclists”. (2012). American Public Health Association. of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center demonstrate that installing pedestrian and bicycle facilities directly improves safety by reducing the risk and severity of pedestrian- Bicycle Facilities with Bicyclist/Pedestrian Crash automobile and bicycle-automobile crashes (see Countermeasures examples to the right). Some facilities improve FACILITY PEDESTRIAN/ safety for both bicyclists and pedestrians, such as TYPE BICYCLIST CRASH sidepaths, paved shoulders, bicycle/pedestrian REDUCTION FACTOR overpasses or underpasses, and intersection crossing improvements. The following web Install bicycle & pedestrian 90% addresses link to more comprehensive research overpass/underpass
on safety. Install sidewalk or sidepath (to avoid walking along 88% • http://www.walkbikenc.com/ roadway) • http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/data/ factsheet_crash.cfm Provide paved shoulder 71% (of at least 4 feet)
Install raised median at unsignalized intersection 46% Install bike lanes 35%
Install separated bike lanes 74%
Source: Federal Highway Administration. Desktop Reference for Crash Reduction Factors. http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/ 8 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN HEALTH Better Health through Active Transportation North Carolina ranks 33rd compared to other states Transylvania County can make strides to in core determinants of health.4 Two key measures support community health by developing in that ranking are cardiovascular deaths and bicycle lanes and shared use paths to increase obesity, for which North Carolina is ranked 30th and safe opportunities for recreation and active 35th, respectively. Other key trends and challenges transportation. Using active transportation to related to health and transportation in North and from school, work, parks, restaurants, and Carolina and Transylvania County: other routine destinations is one of the best ways • 66% of North Carolina adults are either that children and adults can lead measurably overweight or obese.5 The state is also ranked healthier lives. Increasing one’s level of physical 5th worst in the nation for childhood obesity.6 activity through bicycling reduces the risk and • The annual direct medical cost of physical impact of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inactivity in North Carolina is estimated at $3.67 chronic disease, and some cancers. It also helps billion, plus an additional $4.71 billion in lost to control weight, improves mood, and reduces productivity.7 However, every dollar invested the risk of premature death.10 in pedestrian and bicycle trails can result in a savings of nearly $3 in direct medical expenses.8 • Two 14-year studies of more than 60,000 • Of North Carolinians surveyed, 60% would people investigated if total physical activity, increase their level of physical activity if they as well as different types of physical activity, had better access to sidewalks and trails.1 were associated with heart failure risk. It • Nutrition, physical activity, and weight was found that walking or bicycling at least 20 a priority issue identified in the Transylvania minutes per day was associated with the County Community Health Assessment (2015). largest risk reduction of heart failure.11 According to the assessment, only half of county residents say they get the recommended amount of daily physical activity.9
Active Transportation: Pathway to Health
Fewer Chronic Less Reduced Disease Deaths Increased Diabetes Active Obesity + Increased Life Physical High Blood Transportation Overweight Expectancy Activity Pressure System Better Mental (Walking + Certain Cancers Health Bicycling) Depression Quality of Life
Fewer Better Respiratory Air Quality Illnesses
Source: Alta Planning + Design; WalkBikeNC
20 MINUTES WALKING OR BIKING each day is associated with a LOWER RISK OF HEART FAILURE FOR MEN and LOWER RISK FOR WOMEN
Rahman, 2014 and 2015
INTRODUCTION l 9 ECONOMIC HEALTH The economic benefits of active transportation • The cost of purchasing and maintaining a bicycle come in the form of increased property values, to an individual, and the cost of building and tourism, sales, and infrastructure savings. Many maintaining bicycle facilities to a community, people today move to where they want to live, and is negligible compared to those same costs for bicycle infrastructure and trails are an increasingly cars and highways. important part of that decision. • Bicycling, when it can be used in a community There are many examples, both nationally and in as a viable form of transportation, can at least North Carolina, that affirm the positive connection partially replace car use and maintenance, between trails, active transportation, and property keeping household disposable income available values. Studies have demonstrated a range of for other important wants and needs. increases in property values, from 2% up to 20%. For example, a study from Asabere and Huffman, “The Relative Impacts of Trails and Greenbelts on Home Price”, analyzed 10,000 home sales and found that trails, greenbelts/greenways, and trails with greenbelts/greenways were associated with roughly 2, 4, and 5 percent price premiums, respectively. Bicyclists, pedestrians, and trail users can also add real $8,220 $308 value to local economies: • The five-mile Brevard Greenway in the City of Average Cost of Average Cost of Brevard in Transylvania County, according to Operating a Car Per Operating a Bike a three year study (2015-2017) by the NCDOT Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation, Year Per Year generates approximately $1.5 million annually in Source: Mohn, T. “Pedaling to Prosperity: Biking Saves U.S. Riders business output. See Executive Summary of the Billions a Year.” (2012). Forbes.
A recent report conducted for nearby Haywood County identifies 10 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN the significant potential for bicycle tourism in Western North Carolina. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Evaluating the ECONOMIC IMPACT of SHARED USE PATHS in North Carolina MARCH 2018
Shared use paths, also known as GREENWAYS, provide a shared space for bicycle and pedestrian travel outside of the roadway. This project’s objective was to design and test an approach for measuring the economic contributions of greenways in North Carolina.
The four greenways DUCK featured in this study, AMERICAN TRAIL TOBACCO TRAIL Annual A with estimated annual 146K Trips T Annual 2016 trips and study years: 481K Trips L PIEDMONT 2015, 2016, & 2017 A
MOUNTAIN N
T
LITTLE SUGAR I BREVARD CREEK C GREENWAY GREENWAY COASTAL PLAIN O Annual Annual 76K Trips 383K Trips C
2015, 2016, & 2017 2016 E
A N
COMBINED STUDY RESULTS A one-time $26.7M capital investment in the four greenways supports:
$19.4M $684K $25.7M $48.7M 790 JOBS Estimated Estimated annual Estimated annual Estimated Are supported annual sales local and state savings due to more business revenue annually through revenue at sales tax physical activity, from greenway greenway local businesses revenue from less pollution and construction construction along the four businesses along congestion, and greenways the greenways fewer traffic injuries from use of the greenways
RETURN ON INVESTMENT: Every $1.00 of trail construction supports $1.72 annually from local business revenue, sales tax revenue, and benefits related to health and transportation.
By: The Institute for Transportation Research and Education and Alta Planning + Design For: NCDOT Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation
FULL REPORT: go.ncsu.edu/sharedusepaths
INTRODUCTION l 11 MOBILITY Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) & Opportunity to Increase Bicycling Rates Congestion According to the 2011 Bicycle and Pedestrian Taking short trips by foot or by bike can help to Safety Survey, at least 70% of North Carolinians greatly reduce motor vehicle miles driven and would walk or bike more for daily trips traffic congestion. Under the Nonmotorized if walking and bicycling conditions were Transportation Pilot Program, walking and improved.1 Furthermore, public input during the bicycling investments contributed to an development of the Transylvania County Parks estimated 23% increase in the number of and Recreation Plan also shows walking is the walking trips and an estimated 48% increase number one recreational activity needed by in the number of bicycling trips in four pilot Transylvania County residents. With appropriate communities between 2007 and 2013.16 These accommodations, walking and bicycling can individual changes in travel behavior can add up provide alternatives to driving for commuting to produce significant societal benefits. Traffic to work, running errands, or making other short on arterials and other streets can be mitigated trips. as people use bike lanes, paths, and other alternatives to get around. Parking areas can also Commute rates for bicycling in Transylvania be made less congested by reducing crowding, County are currently above the statewide average, circling, and waiting for open spots. with 0.5% of Transylvania County commuters bicycling to work and 0.2% commuters bicycling The following web addresses link to more to work statewide. The nationwide average is comprehensive research on transportation 0.6% and North Carolina ranks 43rd for bicycling efficiency. commute rates in nationwide state rankings.3 • http://www.walkbikenc.com/ There are local residents who commute by bike • http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/data/ in Transylvania County, and the potential for factsheet_general.cfm more people to enjoy a safe bicycle commute could really benefit area households, schools and colleges, and businesses.
These mobility benefits go beyond commuting Daily Trip Distances as well. Transylvania County has numerous destinations that are accessible, and residents 10 or less 79.4% can benefit from safe facilities that increase 5 or less 62.7% the rate of walking and biking for short trips to Distance these destinations. Furthermore, other aspects Traveled (in 3 or less 48.8% Miles) of mobility and accessibility also apply to 2 or less 39.6% children and those who can no longer drive due to advanced age. Moreover, improved walking/ 1 or less 27.5% biking paths benefit those who use wheelchairs less than 1/2 13.7%
or scooters, as well as people who have visual Percentage of Travel impairments. Currently, Transylvania County has 0 miles of greenways outside of the City of Most driving trips in the U.S. are for a distance of five miles or less. Chart Brevard and the Town of Rosman. from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Information Center, www.pedbikeinfo.org
12 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN ENVIRONMENT Environmental stewardship addresses the impact that transportation decisions (both at the government/policy level and individual level) can have on the land, water and air that Transylvania County residents and visitors enjoy.
Below are some key trends and challenges related to stewardship and transportation in North Carolina:
• According to the National Association of Realtors and Transportation for America, 89% of Americans believe that transportation investments should support the goal of reducing energy use.17 • North Carolina’s 2009-2013 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) found “walking for pleasure” to be the most common outdoor recreational activity, enjoyed by 82% of respondents, and bicycling by 31% of respondents.18 • Public input during the development of the Transylvania County Parks and Recreation Plan also shows that walking is the number one recreational activity needed by Transylvania County residents.
Providing safe accommodations for walking and bicycling in Transylvania County can help to reduce IF 8% MORE CHILDREN automobile dependency, which in turn leads to a reduction in vehicle emissions – a benefit for County LIVING WITHIN 2 residents and visitors and the environment. As of 2016, MILES OF A SCHOOL 28.5% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to the transportation sector, and personal vehicles WERE TO WALK OR account for almost two-thirds (60%) of all transportation BIKE TO SCHOOL, emissions.19 Primary emissions that pose potential health and environmental risks are carbon dioxide, THE AIR POLLUTION carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), REDUCED FROM NOT nitrous oxides (NOx), and benzene. Children and senior citizens are particularly sensitive to the harmful affects TAKING A CAR WOULD of air pollution, as are individuals with heart or other BE EQUIVALENT TO respiratory illnesses. Increased health risks such as asthma and heart problems are associated with vehicle REMOVING 60,000 emissions.20 CARS FROM THE Even a modest increase in walking and bicycling trips (in ROAD FOR ONE YEAR, place of motor vehicle trips) can have significant positive NATIONALLY. impacts for the environment. For example, replacing Pedroso, 2008, SRTS two miles of driving each day with walking or bicycling will, in one year, prevent 730 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.21
The following web addresses link to more comprehensive research on active transportation and stewardship.
• http://www.walkbikenc.com/ • http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/data/factsheet_ environmental.cfm
INTRODUCTION l 13 REFERENCES
1. NCDOT DBPT and the Institute of Transportation Research and Education. (2011). 2011 Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Summit Report. 2. NCDOT Communications Office. (2017). NCDOT Annual Performance Report: Bicycle and Pedestrian Performance Profile. 3. Alliance for Biking and Walking. (2016). Biking and Walking in the United States: 2016 benchmarking report. 4. “America’s Health Rankings Annual Report.” (2017). United Health Foundation and the American Public Health Association. 5. North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics. (2012). Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2012 Results. www. schs.state.nc.us/SCHS/ brfss/2013/index.html 6. North Carolina DHHS, Physical Activity and Nutrition Branch, Eat Smart, Move More NC. The Obesity Epidemic in North Carolina. www. eatsmartmovemorenc.com/ObesityInNC/ ObesityInNC.html. 7. Be Active North Carolina. (2012). Tipping the Scales: The High Cost of Unhealthy Behavior in North Carolina. 8. Chenoweth, David. (2012). “Economics, Physical Activity, and Community Design.” North Carolina Medical Journal 73(4): 293-294. 9. Transylvania County Public Health (2015). Transylvania County 2015 Community Health Assessment. 10. National Prevention Council. (2011). National Prevention Strategy: America’s plan for better health and wellness. http:// www.healthcare.gov/ prevention/nphpphc/strategy/report.pdf 11. Relationship Between Physical Activity and Heart Failure Risk in Women (Rahman, I., Bellavia, A., & Wolk, A., 2014); and Physical Activity and Heart Failure Risk in a Prospective Study of Men. (Rahman, I., Bellavia, A., Wolf, A., & Orsini, N., 2015) 12. Institute of Transportation Research and Education. (2017). Evaluating the Economic Impact of Shared Use Paths in North Carolina. 13. Furman University; Clemson International Institute for Tourism Research. Greenville Health System Swamp Rabbit Trail Year 3 Findings. 14. US Forest Service. The Virginia Creeper Trail: An Assessment of User Demographics, Preferences, and Economics 15. Appalachian State University Department of Economics. Economic Impact of the 2015 Blood, Sweat, and Gears. Retrieved from https:// business.appstate.edu/sites/business.appstate.edu/files/Economic%20Impact%20of%20the%202015%20BSG.pdf 16. Federal Highway Administration. (2014). Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program Report: 2014 Report. Retrieved from http://www.fhwa. dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/ntpp/2014_report/ 17. National Association of Realtors and Transportation for America. (2009). 2009 Growth and Transportation Survey. 18. Division of Parks and Recreation, NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources.(2008). 2009-2013 North Carolina Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. 19. United States Environmental Protection Agency (2018). Inventory of US Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sings: 1990-2016. 20. Health Effects Institute (2010). Traffic-Related Air Pollution: A Critical Review of the Literature on Emissions, Exposure, and Health Effects. Special Report 17. 21. FHWA. (1992). Benefits of bicycling and walking to health.
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INTRODUCTION l 15 CHAPTER 2: EXISTING CONDITIONS
16 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN EXISTING CONDITIONS BICYCLING IN TRANSYLVANIA Transylvania County is located in the mountains of COUNTY TODAY Western North Carolina and is situated between Transylvania County attracts a thriving outdoor Asheville to the northeast, Hendersonville to industry, including recreational mountain biking the east, and Greenville, South Carolina to the and road bicycling - 8 mountain and road bicycling southeast. Transylvania County is bisected by races were scheduled in or through the County the French Broad River valley, flowing from the in 2018. With hundreds of miles of stunning southwest to northeast toward Asheville - this mountain biking trails and scenic, lower traffic valley and tributary valleys are where most volume mountainous roads used by recreational of the development lies, including the City of bicyclists, a culture supportive of bicycling not Brevard and the Town of Rosman. The Blue Ridge just for recreation, but also for transportation, is Parkway, a major bicycling destination, follows emerging in the county. the ridge line and border of Transylvania County to the northwest, and elevations climb as one NCDOT designated bike routes, the 2017 Ride travels in Transylvania County to the west and Transylvania County bike map, and Strava heat south. maps indicate popular routes used mostly by recreational bicyclists across the County. Many The recently completed 2025 Transylvania of these are highlighted in yellow in the Existing County Comprehensive Plan includes detailed Facilities & Destinations maps beginning on page insight to existing conditions. Several are 18. highlighted below, pointing to the unique character of the rural, mountainous nature of The 4.8 mile Brevard Greenway is one of the Transylvania County: highlights of the existing bicycle network, connecting downtown Brevard and Pisgah • Nearly half of Transylvania County lies in National Forest (Davidson River Campground), public/conservation lands, including Pisgah and many local destinations in-between. With National Forest, DuPont State Forest, 0 miles of bike lanes in Transylvania County and Headwaters State Forest, Gorges State only another 1.4 miles of shared use path (1 mile Park, Nantahala National Forest, and other along Gallimore Road, and 0.4 miles in downtown protected lands. Rosman), the Brevard Greenway serves as the • When considering the amount of land that longest segment of paved, dedicated bicycle is already developed, publicly owned, in the facility in Transylvania County. The 2015-2017 floodplain, or with slopes of over 25%, it is bicycle counts as part of the “Evaluating the estimated that there is less than 20% of the Economic Impact of Shared Use Paths” study County that can be developed. by NCDOT on the Brevard Greenway estimated • As several large manufacturers left in the 76,000 annual trips along the greenway, which early 2000’s, tourism, outdoor related averages out to 208 trips per day. businesses, and many of the County’s smaller manufacturers have experienced Unlike automobile traffic volume counts, steady growth in the past two decades. relatively few bicycle traffic volume counts are • Transylvania County continues to grow conducted across North Carolina (and the US), steadily, with population growth rates including Tranyslvania County. However, the projected anywhere from 7% (low estimate), Land of Sky RPO has initiated a counting system 15% (moderate estimate), and 20% (high that includes bicycles, conducting counts in estimate) between now and 2030, adding to three separate locations in Brevard over a one the approximately 33,000 full-time residents. week period in late winter/early spring 2018. Another 7,000 seasonal residents add to the The percentages below provide a snapshot of the year-round population, pointing to the high portion of all vehicular traffic that were bicycles quality of life that draws many people to at these locations. Transylvania County throughout the year. Railroad Avenue near Average percentage 4.5% The 2025 Transylvania County Comprehensive McLean Road of traffic that are bicycles at these Plan can be found on the County’s website Parkview Drive near locations, counted 5% here - https://www.transylvaniacounty.org/ Park Ave over a one week departments/planning-and-community- period in early 2018 Park Avenue near by the Land of Sky development/2025-comprehensive-plan. 2% Parkview Drive RPO.
EXISTING CONDITIONS l 17 These relatively high proportions of bicyclists locations due to higher automobile traffic volumes and are likely due to the fact that these are popular speeds combined with no dedicated space for bicyclists. commuting and recreational bicycle routes in Brevard as a result of their lower automobile As highlighted in Chapter 1, the US Census also collects traffic volumes, generally lower speed limits, and commuting statistics by mode of travel to work. The table connectivity to other locations in Brevard. below highlights the relatively low levels of bicyclists currently commuting to work by bicycle in Transylvania Traffic counts from 2016 and 2017 as partof County, North Carolina, and nationwide. upcoming roadway improvement projects at the US 64/US 276/NC 280 intersection, as well as along Transylvania County 0.5% % Bike to Work: Wilson Road, counted a very small percentage of US Census bicyclists at 0.3% of total traffic or less. This is likely NC Average 0.2% Bureau, 2012- related to the low bicycle comfort levels at these 2016 American US Average 0.6% Community Survey
EXISTING FACILITIES &
y DESTINATIONS: MAP 2.1 a w k r a Map 2.1 provides a basic inventory of P existing bicycle infrastructure, routes, HAYWOOD COUNTY e
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SOUTH CAROLINA Existing Shared Use Path Palmetto Trail Ride Transylvania County Bike Routes School
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18 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN PLAN REVIEW: MAP 2.2 This map highlights past planning efforts and key recommendations from those plans that are relevant to this planning process. These are important elements from which to build recommendations for Transylvania County. Further plan review detail can be found in Appendix D.
1 Transylvania County Comprehensive Transportation Plan y a 2 Transylvania County Strategic Plan w k r 3 Transylvania County Comprehensive Plan a P
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EXISTING CONDITIONS l 19 BICYCLE LEVEL OF COMFORT: MAP 2.3 The project team developed a rating system to evaluate roads across Transylvania County to determine biking suitability. In addition to using this data in developing recommendations, this system was used to create a suitability map, classifying each roadway by comfort level for a moderately experienced bicyclist. The data available to classify those roadways includes traffic volumes, speed limits, presence of 4’ or wider paved shoulder or bike lane, and designated truck routes.
Much of Transylvania County is covered by easy and moderate (blue and green) routes - generally, these are relatively lower traffic volume/speed neighborhood streets (blue) or low traffic volume/higher speed rural roadways such as East Fork Road (green). The majority of the roadways that provide lower comfort levels are found along Transylania County’s arterial roadways that separate most areas of Transylvania County from one another and carry the highest traffic volumes and speeds.
Topography also plays a key role in Transylvania County. While topography is not directly included in this analysis, many roadways in Transylvania County have steep hills that impact a bicyclist experience. Particular examples include Pisgah Highway (US 276), Parkway Road (NC 215), Walnut Hollow Road, and Rich Mountain Road.
See Appendix D further detail to the characteristics of key roadways across Transylvania County.
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20 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN BICYCLE CRASHES 2007-2015: MAP 2.4 This map examines the most recently available bicycle crash data for Transylvania County from 2007-2015. During this time period, 17 crashes were reported, eight of which were either along or very close to US 64 and US 276. Three out of the 17
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EXISTING CONDITIONS l 21 PUBLIC INPUT SUMMARY TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY OPEN Public input during this planning process was HOUSE WORKSHOPS recorded and incorporated into this document. Four open house workshops were held during Stakeholder group members helped spread the existing conditions phase of the Transylvania the word about the plan in order to garner County Bicycle Plan to gather input from responses about existing conditions and areas the public specific to bicycle infrastructure, for improvement. During public meetings, programming, and the bicycle planning process stakeholder group members and residents in general. After the release of the draft plan, four marked up maps and completed open comment additional workshops were held for comment sheets to share their ideas and preferences with and review of the draft plan. These workshops respect to bicycling in Transylvania County. were advertised through social media, flyers, and a press release. All of the public input Feedback was incorporated from the following: sessions were drop-in formats. Below are the dates and locations of the eight public open • Existing Conditions and Draft Plan public house workshops. The following pages provide a open house workshops for the Transylvania summary of the workshop feedback received. All County Bicycle Plan comments received are compiled in Appendix C. • SPOT 5.0 Bicycle and Pedestrian Project survey results • Brevard College Bicycle Survey • Transylvania County/City of Brevard Parks & Recreation Master Plan Survey Results • 2025 Transylvania County Comprehensive Plan survey results
Four public open house workshops were held in different parts of Transylvania County during the existing conditions phase of the planning process. Four open house workshops were also held in January, 2019 to review and comment on the draft plan.
Photo from the open house workshop at the Little River Community Center.
22 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN Open Ended Response Question about Share your Thoughts, concerns, priorities and results What would you like to see? 189 open ended responses
For data categorization purposes, the term “multi-use paths” includes greenways, trails, bike paths, shared use paths, Ecusta Trail and NC280 Trail DRAFT Transylvania County Bike Plan Public Input, September 2018 Report
3 19 38 13 15 8 39 74
DRAFT Transylvania County Bike Plan Public Input, September 2018 Report
EXISTING CONDITIONS l 23 CHAPTER 3: RECOMMENDATIONS
24 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN OVERVIEW policy recommendations are also included This chapter outlines the recommendations to further meet the goals of this plan. These for making Transylvania County safer and recommendations also promote greater positive more enjoyable for bicycling, with improved relations between bicyclists and motorists. connections across the county. A diverse mix of bicycle facilities (such as different types of Recommendations were developed based on bike lanes, paved shoulder, shared lanes, and information from several sources: Public and shared use paths) are recommended to make stakeholder group input, in-person public open these connections, taking into account the house workshops; connectivity to destinations; needs of different types of bicyclists. In addition review of current roadways and bicycle facilities; to the infrastructure recommendations that existing plans and projects, and a prioritization make up the bulk of this chapter, program and process combining these inputs.
BASIS OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Public & Connections Existing Existing Recommen- Stakeholder to Key Conditions Plans & dations Destinations Projects Group Input Opportunities and Mapping Communities, challenges (Appx Planned and Infrastructure (p. exercises, parks, schools, D) Bicycle Level of in-development 29-37), progams (p. workshops, SPOT neighborhoods, Comfort Analysis (p. roadway, greenway, 38-43), and policy 5.0 survey, Brevard commercial areas, 20), and sidepath, and bicycle (p.44-45) College Survey, and surrounding past bicycle crash lane projects (p.19 + counties + locations (p.21) + & 28) = 2025 Transylvania Comprehensive (p. 18) Plan Survey (p.22)
Bicyclists along Pisgah Hwy/US 276 - this section of road between US 64 and Avery Creek Rd connects several popular Pisgah National Forest destinations and the northern limits of Brevard and is a key corridor needing improvement.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 25 BICYCLE FACILITY TYPES These are the primary facility types recommended in this plan. See the maps (and legends) in this chapter to see where these different types of facilities are recommended in Transylvania County. For roadway corridors in general, as traffic volumes and speeds increase, greater separation is needed for bicyclists and motorists. For more information on facility design, please see Appendix A. least separated
most separated
26 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS:
KEEP MOMENTUM ON BICYCLE PROJECTS THAT ARE ALREADY IN-DEVELOPMENT. Map 3.1 features existing facilities along with projects that have some level of funding, 1 design, or construction in progress. These “in-development” projects should be fully funded first, as the lowest hanging fruit for new bicycle infrastructure.
STRATEGICALLY AND PROACTIVELY FUND AND BUILD THE PRIORITY NETWORK. Map 3.2 features a priority network developed out of this planning process and previous 2 planning processes. The priority network is displayed in three cutsheets (starting on page 30) that summarize why each element is a priority, and what the key opportunities and challenges are to its development.
USE THE COMPREHENSIVE NETWORK OF RECOMMENDATIONS TO BUILD OTHER PROJECTS 3 INCREMENTALLY OVER TIME. As Transylvania County continues to grow, new development and roadway construction projects should incorporate facilities recommended in Map 3.3. As progress is made on the priority network, new priorities should be selected from this comprehensive map of recommendations.
IMPLEMENT NEW PROGRAMS AND POLICIES THAT SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE BICYCLING. As new facilities are built, they will need to be maintained with coordination between 4 agencies for multi-jurisdictional projects; strategically lowering posted speed limits, identifying solutions for steep hills, capitalizing on numerous bicycle-related events and continuing the Watch for Me NC educational campaign will add to a comprehensive effort toward both bicyclist and motorist safety.
Together, these recommendations make up the core of this plan, as featured in Chapter 3. They are supplemented by detailed implementation guidance in Chapter 4, including a list of resources for the latest information on bicycle facility design and bicycle-related policy.
Photo of the Brevard Greenway at the Transylvania Activity Center
RECOMMENDATIONS l 27 RECOMMENDATIONS | 27 PROJECTS IN DEVELOPMENT: MAP 3.1 This map features existing facilities along with key projects that have some level of funding, design, or construction in progress. These “in development” projects should be fully funded first, and are critical to improving bicycle infrastructure connectivity in Transylvania County: 1• N. Broad Street from Fortune Cove Road to North Caldwell Street bike lanes and sidepath (R-5800) 2• Brevard priority greenway development, committed to completion in summer 2021 3• Wilson Road improvements, paved shoulders (R-5763) 4• US 64/US 276/NC 280 intersection improvements, including bicycle and pedestrian accommodations (R-5799) 5• Davidson River bicycle/pedestrian bridge from Brevard Greenway across Davidson River to businesses at the US 64/ US 276/NC 280 intersection (EB-5858)
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RECOMMENDATIONS l 29 PRIORITY PROJECTS - TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY »» Ecusta Rail Trail - The proposed Ecusta Rail Trail was the most SHARED USE PATH SPINES: often cited improvement needed for bicycling in Transylvania County during this planning process. Completely sepa- Several shared use path connections were rated from roadways, this project would utilize the former identified in this planning process and previous Norfolk Southern railroad corridor that is currently owned planning processes that can serve as ‘spines’ of by Watco Transportation Services. It provides a flat, direct connectivity through or between Transylvania connection from the Brevard Greenway through - north communities. These projects provide physical eastern Transylvania County, Little River, and eventually separation between bicyclists and motorists, Hendersonville. US 64, Old Hendersonville Hwy, Crab Creek providing options for all ages and abilities of Road, and Everett Road, which carry high traffic volumes and bicyclists (and pedestrians). The priority spines speeds, provide a low level of comfort for the average bicy- are not ranked against each other and will be clist and are currently the only bicycling alternatives through developed as resources and funding allow. this part of the County. »» Lake Toxaway Trail - The proposed shared use path through »» Brevard to Rosman - This connection includes a pro- Lake Toxaway highlights an opportunity to create a spine posed shared use path between Brevard and Rosman through the heart of the community as identified in the along the US 64 corridor. This would provide a link Historic Toxaway Planning Study. This project would connect between the two incorporated population centers in businesses, residential areas, Lake Toxaway dam, and Gorges Transylvania County, and serve as an essential pas- State Park, along or near the US 64 corridor. This corridor is sageway to the southwestern portion of Transylvania also identified as a designated growth area in the Transylvania County, including Gorges State Park and the Lake County Comprehensive Plan. Toxaway community. This corridor is also identified as a designated growth area in the 2025 Transylvania »» Cedar Mountain Trail - This proposed shared use path would County Comprehensive Plan. connect from the Connestee Falls Overlook to Cascade Lake Road along US 276. This project would connect businesses, »» Brevard to Mills River - NC 280 serves as a direct the Cedar Mountain Community Center, and residences commercial link from Brevard through the northern/ through the heart of the Cedar Mountain community. This northeastern end of Transylvania County to Mills trail could also serve as a connection to Cascade Lake Road River, and eventually Asheville. This project would toward DuPont State Forest trails. This corridor is also identi- consist of a shared use path along or near the NC 280 fied as a designated growth area in the Transylvania County corridor as identified in the 2014 Mills River NC 280 Comprehensive Plan. Corridor Study. This corridor also serves as a gateway into Transylvania County and Pisgah National Forest from the north. The southern terminus of this proj- ect could connect into the future NC 280/US 64/US 276 intersection improvements and Davidson River bike/ped bridge that will also connect to the Brevard See the Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks Greenway and Pisgah National Forest. design guide for further detail regarding design best practices and options: shared use paths and sidepaths - http://ruraldesignguide.com/physically-separated
Intersection Crossings Enhancements such as median crossing SMALL TOWN AND RURAL MULTIMODAL NETWORKS MULTIMODAL RURAL AND TOWN SMALL islands or raised crossings can increase APPLICATION comfort and safety for path users. Roadway Crossings Where paths intersect roads, enhancements Speed and Volume should improve conditions for path users. Paths operating in independent corridors are fully separated from traffic. Facility provision is based on opportunity and connectivity rather than roadway context. In some cases, an independent corridor may offer similar connectivity and access to destinations as a nearby roadway.
Network CHAPTER 4 | FACILITIES SEPARATED PHYSICALLY Serves connections independently of the street network. May function as a network alternative road and highway connections.
Network Connection Opportunities When constructed outside of a roadway corridor, a shared use path offers a low-stress experience away from motor vehicles. Shared Use Path The single path combines 30 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN bicyclists and pedestrians in both directions. Land Use Generally appropriate outside of built-up areas, and also as a corridor BENEFITS connection within built-up areas.
• Provides a dedicated facility for users • Supports tourism through Shared Use Path of all ages and abilities. convenient access to natural areas or as an enjoyable recreational Provides, in some cases, a short-cut • opportunity itself. A shared use path provides a travel area separate from between cities or neighborhoods. Provides nonmotorized Provides, in some cases, access to • motorized traffic for bicyclists, pedestrians, skaters, • transportation access to natural areas that are otherwise served only and recreational areas, which can wheelchair users, joggers, and other users. Shared use by limited-access roadways. especially help low-income people paths can provide a low-stress experience for a variety of obtain access to recreation. users using the network for transportation or recreation. • Paths have a small footprint and can display a distinctly rural character.
4-3 4-4 Henderson County Transylvania County
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Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS User Community
Priority Shared Use Path Projects
Existing Shared Use Path
Hiking/Mt Biking Trails 0 2.5 5 Miles I In Development
RECOMMENDATIONS l 31 PRIORITY PROJECTS - TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY/ BREVARD INTERFACE:
As the Brevard bicycle network continues »» N. Country Club Road from S. Broad Street to Illahee to develop, multijurisdictional efforts will Road - links to south/southwest Transylvania be needed to connect this network to other County: These short links would provide a significant areas beyond the City of Brevard’s municipal improvement in connectivity from the southern part limits. Aside from the Greenville Hwy segment of Brevard to county bike routes and destinations to connecting to Hap Simpson Park and the French the south including Rosman. This is a key pinch-point Broad River Greenway, all of these projects for bicyclists heading south because of the relatively are currently under consideration for Strategic higher traffic volumes and narrow roadway corridor. Transportation Investments funding in SPOT Because these segments carry higher traffic volumes 5.0 and could be completed as part of future and speeds, physical separation from the roadway is roadway improvement projects. Incorporating recommended where possible. bicycle facilities into the design of these projects »» Parkview Dr/Park Ave/Neely Rd from US 276 to Old now will save significant money down the road, Hendersonville Hwy - links north/south along the east due to the high degree of difficulty in adding side of Brevard/Transylvania County boundary: This bicycle facilities after a roadway corridor has corridor would provide a direct link from the Brevard been improved. Greenway and future bike lanes along N. Broad Street to the Gallimore Road sidepath. Part of Neely Road is While all of these projects will not be funded currently 35 mph - it is recommended to lower this to during this round of SPOT 5.0, the remaining 25 mph. Buffered bike lanes are recommended due to unfunded projects should remain on the priority higher traffic volumes. list to create a comprehensive bicycle network »» Brevard College Greenway - links Brevard College over time. The priority projects are not ranked campus to the developing Brevard bike network as against each other and will be developed as well as potential future connectivity to Neely Road resources and funding allow. and the French Broad River corridor. The Brevard College greenway through the heart of campus is a These projects include: top priority for Brevard College. »» Greenville Hwy/US 276 - link from Gallimore Road »» Music Camp Road - link to Bracken Preserve: Music sidepath/Brevard High School and Elementary to Camp Road is a low traffic volume roadway that Hap Simpson Park/Wilson Road/Rich Mountain provides the final, steep link from the developing Road: This stretch of Greenville Hwy is a critical link Brevard greenway system to Bracken Preserve. between neighborhoods and schools in southeast- Bicycle improvements along Music Camp Road should ern Brevard to Hap Simpson Park, Wilson Road, Rich include shared lane markings and wayfinding signage. Mountain Road, and eventually Cedar Mountain and Traffic calming elements such as speed tables should DuPont State Forest. Bicycle improvements should be considered as well. include physical separation from automobile traffic »» French Broad River Greenway - the French Broad River as a sidepath along the roadway or along a potential Greenway should be developed over time through future sewer easement away from the roadway. One Transylvania County. A potential first phase could be of the key challenges for this segment is the likely developed as part of a linear park in the floodplain need for constructing a bike/ped bridge across the area between Wilson Road and the river. Access to the French Broad River. French Broad River and trail development along the »» Old Hendersonville Hwy - links to northeast river is recommended in the Transylvania County/City Transylvania County: This link would provide a sig- of Brevard Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan (2016). nificant improvement in connectivity between the Furthermore, it is a priority for Henderson County in Brevard Greenway, future improvements to N. Broad the Henderson County Greenway Plan (2018). Street, Wilson Road, and the neighborhoods, busi- nesses, schools, and recreation opportunities in the immediate area (in addition to the northeastern por- tion of Transylvania County). Because these segments carry higher traffic volumes and speeds, physical sep- aration from the roadway is recommended (consider sidepath and separated bike lane options during the design phase).
32 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN The City of Brevard is committed to completing its proposed priority ¤£276 280 greenway projects (see page 44 of the City of Brevard Pedestrian Plan UV (2018 update)) by the summer of 2021. This will be a significant step forward for bicycling (and walking) in Brevard. The projects highlighted in purple below will build upon these efforts and serve as connection opportunities beyond Brevard’s municipal limits into Transylvania ¤£64 County.
The Brevard Streetscape Study (2012) details improvements along E
Broad Street and Main Street in the downtown core including bicycle c u To Little
facilities. In addition to these proposed improvements, bicycle s t boulevard opportunities along neighborhood streets such as Jordan a River and Hendersonville Road, Maple Street, S. Johnson Street, S. Rice Street, and Franklin R Street can significantly enhance bicycle circulation in the downtown ¤£64 d core. These improvements in combination with the developing ¤£276 greenway network and implementation of SPOT 5.0 projects will create comprehensive connectivity through the heart of Transylvania County’s largest community, and provide significant momentum for Transylvania comprehensive connectivity throughout the county. Activity Center
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Transylvania County/Brevard Interface
Existing Greenway 0 0.5 1 Hiking/Mt Biking Trails Miles I In Development RECOMMENDATIONS l 33 PRIORITY PROJECTS - TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BIKE ROUTES:
The Transylvania County bike routes recently »» Greenville Hwy/US 276 - from Rich Mountain Road to updated in 2017 and presented in the Ride the South Carolina border (note: section north of Rich Transylvania County bike map connect much of Mountain Road to the Gallimore Road sidepath is cov- Transylvania County. These roadways should be ered in the Brevard/Transylvania County Interface project standardized, ideally with physically separated sheet above): This section of US 276 provides the flattest, bicycle lanes. At a minimum, they should include direct link to Cedar Mountain, with further connectivity to paved shoulders/dedicated bike lanes. Higher DuPont State Park. traffic volume, higher speed sections of these »» Old Hendersonville Hwy/Everett Road/Crab Creek Road routes (highlighted in dark green in map on the - from the Wilson Road/Ecusta Road intersection, these following page), should be improved first with roads serve as the main arteries to Little River and beyond to higher degrees of separation from automobile DuPont State Forest and Henderson County. Improvements traffic, to the extent possible. Wide paved to Everett Rd are currently under consideration in SPOT 5.0. shoulders/bike lanes with bicycle friendly rumble »» Rosman Hwy - US 64 southwest of Rosman and US 178 strips may be the best option for improving south of Rosman are the main corridors connecting to the comfort along these corridors and should be south and far southwest sections of Transylvania County. explored further during the design phase. As such, they carry higher traffic volumes and speed limits along these stretches in particular. Improvements to US 178 These higher traffic volume sections include south of Rosman is currently under consideration in SPOT the following (note: N. Country Club Road, and 5.0. Greenville Hwy/US 276 north of Rich Mountain » Road are included in the previous priority project » NC 215/Parkway Dr and US 276 Pisgah Hwy - these two page). These priority sections are not ranked corridors carry higher levels of traffic volumes and speeds. Traffic volumes drop substantially closer to the Blue Ridge against each other and will be developed as Parkway. Furthermore, these roads are very steep and nar- resources and funding allow. row, and are popular bicycling routes due to connectivity to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Improvements to US 276 Pisgah Hwy from the NC 280 intersection to Avery Creek Rd are under consideration for federal funding at this time. See the Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks design guide for further detail regarding design best practices and options: paved shoulder and bike lanes - http://ruraldesignguide.com/visually-separated Paved shoulders serve bicyclists as an auxiliary function, while primarily serving as a safety improvement for motorists. However, simple design features, such as the placement of rumble strips can significantly impact the experience of a bicyclist.
34 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN Henderson County Transylvania County Traffic volumes of 970 - 1,700 AADT and 45-50 mph speed limit
Traffic volumes of 1,500 - 3,200 AADT and 50 mph ¤£276 speed limit
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y w Forest H n a m Cedar s o R Rosman ¤£276 Mountain Gr e Hwy Traffic volumes of eenvill 4,700 - 7,100 AADT and 40-55 mph speed limit Traffic volumes of 7,000 Traffic volumes of 850 - AADT and 55 mph speed Gorges 1,700 AADT and 40-55 mph limit State ¤£178 speed limit
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Ride Transylvania County Routes with Highest Traffic Volumes
Ride Transylvania County Bike Routes
Existing Greenway 0 2 4 Miles I Hiking/Mt Biking Trails
In Development RECOMMENDATIONS l 35 REGIONAL TRAILS AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NC 8 SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS BIKE OPPORTUNITY ROUTE Transylvania County is uniquely positioned as not From the NC Bikeways website (https://www.ncdot. only part of the NC Statewide Bike Route System gov/bikeped/ncbikeways/routes/nc8-southern- (NC 8 Southern Highlands Bike Route), but also highlands/default.aspx): the Hellbender Regional Trail that will eventually connect Transylvania County to Asheville. Both This ~120 mile route begins northwest of Brevard NC and SC’s Mountains to Sea Trail connect along with a 15-mile downhill from its connection Transylvania County’s border as well. There are with NC 2 Mountains to Sea on the Blue Ridge several existing features from which to build (the Parkway, passing through small mountain signed NC 8 Southern Highlands Bike Route, the towns such as Brevard, Saluda, Flat Rock, and existing NC Mountains to Sea Trail along the Blue Tryon. It traverses the foothills of the Blue Ridge Ridge Parkway, and the existing SC Mountains to Sea Mountains southeast toward the South Carolina Trail (Palmetto Trail) that runs along Transylvania border before turning northeast through Forest County’s southeastern border with South Carolina City and finishing at its intersection with the NC 6 in Headwaters State Forest), but regional bicycle Piedmont Spur Bike Route in Lincolnton. connectivity will only come with connected/ continuous, dedicated bicycle facilities. Building The existing signage for NC 8 Southern Highlands Bike dedicated bicycle infrastructure along the NC 8 Route follows Pisgah Highway from the Blue Ridge Southern Highlands Bike Route and working to Parkway to US 64, Davidson River Road, Everett Road, complete regional links to surrounding counties and Crab Creek Road through Transylvania County. is critical for the positive economic impact often North Carolina’s Statewide Pedestrian and Bicycle associated with popular trails. This type of impact Plan (Walk/Bike NC) recommends amending the can come in the form of increased property values route to utilize Talley Road into Henderson County to and revenue from increased tourism (in addition connect directly to Hendersonville. to savings associated with health benefits of active living). A research group (Headwaters Economics) compiled 120 studies on the impacts of trails in a THE HELLBENDER REGIONAL TRAIL single library, searchable by type of benefit, use, The Hellbender Regional Trail is a concept that would year, and region. feature trail connectivity across Western North Carolina counties, including Transylvania County. The For more on this topic, please refer to this research Brevard to Mills River (NC 280), Rosman to Brevard, available at: https://headwaterseconomics.org/ and Ecusta Rrail Trail shared use path projects are economic-development/trails-pathways/trails- proposed as part of this regoinal trail network. These research/. would link into Henderson County’s network as identified in the Henderson County Greenway Plan.
NC 8 Southern Highlands Bike Route is detailed in Walk/Bike NC section 9.3. - https://www.ncdot.gov/bikeped/ walkbikenc/plan-resources/ default.aspx#recommendations
36 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN COMPREHENSIVE NETWORK: MAP 3.3 These are long term recommendations for a comprehensive bike network that should be implemented in conjunction with future roadway projects, new development, and/or a myriad of potential public/private/non-profit sector partnerships. While longer term, they are an important vision of this plan, as they show what the potential is for any given future development or roadway construction that may provide an opportunity for incorporating bicycle facilities. As progress is made on the priority network, new or revised priorities should be selected from this comprehensive map of recommendations.
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RECOMMENDATIONS l 37 PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS Example Maintenance Policies from the These program recommendations are essential AASHTO Guide for the Development of and complementary to future infrastructure Bicycle Facilities projects. Each of the following program ideas were presented at stakeholder group meetings • Establish a regular sweeping schedule and public open house workshops to gauge for roadways and pathways that interest among Transylvania County residents. anticipates both routine and special The program ideas that follow were the highest sweeping needs. This may involve rated by the public. more frequent sweeping seasonally, BICYCLE FACILITY MAINTENANCE and also should include periodic Bicycle facilities require regular maintenance in inspection, particularly in areas order to keep them free of debris and structural that experience frequent flooding. deterioration. Bike lanes are especially vulnerable The sweeping program should be to the accumulation of leaves and gravel as they are blown off the travel lane by automobile traffic. designed to respond to user requests. This debris, as well as potholes, cracks, and joints, • Remove debris in curbed sections create serious obstacles and hazards to bicyclists. with maintenance vehicles that pick A good maintenance program is necessary to up the debris. On roads with flush protect the public investment in bikeways and shoulders, debris can be swept off keep them safe for their users, and separated the pavement. from automobile traffic.
Currently, Transylvania County does not have any dedicated bicycle lanes. As this plan is implemented, the County in partnership with NCDOT and Transylvania communities should commit to a maintenance program that sweeps its future bicycle lanes and shoulder space (ie: future Wilson Rd improvements) on a regular basis. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has provided model maintenance policy language in its Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities. At right • Reduce the presence of loose are examples of recommended maintenance gravel on roadway shoulders by policies. The AASHTO Guide also has policy paving gravel driveway approaches, recommendations for the following areas: surface prioritized on corridors that receive repairs, pavement overlays, vegetation, traffic signal detectors, signs and markings, drainage the heaviest bicyclist use. Also improvements, chip sealing, patching activities, require parties responsible for debris utility cuts, snow clearance, and operating to contain it; for example, require bikeways in work zones. tarps on trucks loaded with gravel. Local ordinances often require tow- vehicle operators to remove glass after crashes, and contractors are usually required to clean up daily after construction operations that leave gravel and dirt on the roadway.
38 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN GREENWAY TRAIL MAINTENANCE Greenway maintenance is essential to the long- term viability and sustainability of any greenway network in Transyvlania County. Construction Longevity of Facilities of greenway trails should not take place • Mulch 2-3 years without a maintenance plan in place. This Plan • Granular Stone 7-10 years recommends a strong, collaborative approach to • Asphalt 7-15 years maintenance. • Concrete 20+ years • Boardwalk 7-10 years Maintenance Principles • Bridge/Underpass 100+ years The greenway trail system should be viewed and maintained as a public resource, serving generations to come. The following guiding principles will help assure the preservation of a first class system: Range of Trail Maintenance Costs Reported annual maintenance costs from • Good maintenance begins with sound cities and regions for shared-use trails range planning and design. widely, from just $500/mile to over $15,000/ • Foremost, protect life, property and the mile. The Town of Cary, NC uses $6,000/ environment. mile for annual mowing and trash pick up, • Promote and maintain a quality outdoor and minor repairs like replacing a fence rail; recreation and transportation experience. they budget asphalt and drainage repairs • Develop a management plan that is reviewed separately on case by case basis. Some key and updated annually with tasks, operational factors affecting these wide ranges include: policies, standards, and routine and remedial maintenance goals. • Quality of materials used, and frequency • Maintain quality control and conduct regular of sealing and reconstruction of the inspections. path • Include field crews, police and fire/rescue • Amount of leaf drop affecting the trail personnel in both the design review and on- going management process. that requires concentrated sweeping • Maintain an effective, responsive public • Amount of flooding of the trail that has feedback system and promote public to be cleaned up participation. • Amount of snow removal/grooming • Be a good neighbor to adjacent properties. needed • Operate a cost-effective program with • Whether or not mowing, irrigation, and sustainable funding sources. other care of adjacent open space is Greenway Trail Flooding calculated in the cost As greenway development along the French • Presence of waste receptacles Broad River is explored in Transylvania County, flooding considerations will need to The largest factor affecting the annual be addressed. In general, trail flooding can maintenance figures is whether or not the sometimes be addressed by elevating sections eventual trail reconstruction is accounted of trail as a boardwalk, but that option may be for in annual maintenance budgets, as constrained by floodplain regulations. Another opposed to being considered as separate potential solution is to reroute trail alignments capital item. further from floodways. When trails are designed to flood, crews should inspect the trail following a flood event. Signage should be used to both caution trail users of flooding potential, and to inform them that the trail is designed to flood periodically.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 39 WATCH FOR ME NC: MEDIA CAMPAIGN In 2018, Transylvania County’s Planning Department Educational and Enforcement Activities pulled together a number of organizations to assist Watch for Me NC materials were distributed to insurance with the Watch for Me NC campaign (https://www. companies, displayed at local bike shops and outfitters, watchformenc.org/). The City of Brevard’s Police and made available at Pisgah National Forest, DuPont Department is a great advocate for the program State Forest, and Gorges State Park. Children and young and the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club works hard to help adults in Transylvania County received information at educate the public. Other Watch for Me NC partners elementary schools and summer camps. include: Transylvania County kicked off their Watch for Me NC • Brevard College campaign at a Fourth of July festival, where thousands • Blue Ridge Bicycle Club of locals and visitors received program materials. Staff • City of Brevard were also on hand with a public safety booth at the Oskar • Friends of Ecusta Trail Blues Festival in late July. The county worked to introduce • Land of Sky Regional Council the goals of Watch for Me NC to both the area’s diverse • Transylvania County Health Department rural and municipal enforcement agencies, and spent • Transylvania County Parks and Recreation time communicating with the county Transportation Department Advisory Board and to the regions’ Safe Routes to School • Transylvania County Sheriff’s Department coordinator.
Key Outcomes Watch for Me NC billboards created a buzz around Transylvania County. Officials also took an innovative approach to spreading the word about safety by pressure washing stencils into the sidewalk of US 64. Awareness about bicycle and pedestrian safety issues were raised in the county through staff interviews on WSQL and press releases. Two targeted enforcement campaigns were held in the latter part of 2018.
Lessons Learned and Recommendations Transylvania County should continue engaging and expanding upon the Watch for Me NC campaign (such as incorporating programmatic elements from Vision Zero (visionzeronetwork.org), Safe Routes to School (saferoutesinfo.org) and Strive Not to Drive (strivenottodrive.org)). Improving bicycle infrastructure will increase the effectiveness of education, as multi- faceted efforts are needed to increase bicycle friendliness of Transylvania County.
“Watch for Me NC” example materials.
40 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN COMMUNITY FORUMS FOR EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION Education for both bicyclists and motorists should include an open forum for interested citizens (both County’s roadway users and explore solutions to problems bicyclists and non-bicyclists) to come together that are identified. During this planning process, it was and discuss current challenges regarding bicyclist/ clear that both motorists and bicyclists care deeply about motorist safety and behavior. Knowledgeable the safety and well-being of fellow residents and visitors, representatives from the local bicycle industry, law and that an open forum would help to create a safer enforcement, and concerned citizens could learn environment for both bicyclists and motorist by identifying about different perspectives from Transylvania issues and solutions.
These meetings could LEFT STOP take place quarterly or LOOK BEFORE as deemed necessary OBEY TRAFFIC ENTERING TRAFFIC RIGHT RIGHT SIGNALS RIDE WITH BE BRIGHT & CHANGING USE WEAR A by participants. & SIGNS TRAFFIC AT NIGHT LANES HAND SIGNALS HELMET This could also be a
Produced by by Produced Alta Planning + Design, 2019 Bicyclists: A front light & rear red regular function of the Motorists & light are required at night in NC. Bicyclists: Be NO A bright vest can replace a rear Bicycle and Pedestrian aware of your light if visible from 300 feet. surroundings. Advisory committee Do not use YES your phone or that is recommended headphones Bicyclists: At in this plan (see pages while riding or Bicyclists: driving. intersections, use Bicyclists: Watch for cars 49 & 51). Use the the lane farthest Motorists & to the right that on your left Bicyclists: Watch through lane to go points where who might turn for turn signals right. Information such as and hand signals, straight, you’re going (this but do not count not the turn keeps you on the traffic laws and safe lane. on them. right for the next driving and bicycling street). behavior (see graphic to the left) should
YES be shared at these Motorists: meetings. Local bicycle Yield to industry professionals bicycles as you would and law enforcment Bicyclists: YES NO to other can help bicyclists Ride in a vehicles straight on the and motorists better line Motorists: roadway. & avoid Pass at understand the rules weaving. least two of the road and the feet away d sign an al needs of all roadway by law in h s e . NC, and at s users, increasing safety least four U feet when across the county. in a no pass zone.
Bicyclists: When biking on sidewalks, be aware of risks at driveways & NO intersections.
Bicyclists: NO Never ride against traffic. Bicyclists: Watch for people in LET’S RIDE & DRIVE SAFELY LET’S RIDE & DRIVE SAFELY County! in Transylvania LET’S RIDE & DRIVE SAFELY LET’S RIDE & DRIVE SAFELY County! in Transylvania parked cars. Move outside of the door YES zone or slow down and pass carefully.
Bicyclists: When necessary, Bicyclists: Be aware. Scan use the entire travel lane. With traffic ahead and behind you. sharrow markings, ride through Don’t use audio devices that the center of the arrows. limit your hearing.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 41 BICYCLE RIDES AND RACES: CAPITALIZING ON BICYCLE EVENTS In 2018, there were at least eight bicycle rides and Ways in which communities, partner organizations, and races in Transylvania County. Future race events are businesses across Transylvania County can expand upon excellent opportunities to promote and celebrate these event-based tourism opportunities include: bicycling through the communities in which these events cross. The following rides/races were held • Create a local/regional brand for promotional in 2018 that are within or partially cross through purposes. Transylvania County: • Develop an education campaign for hospitality industry, cyclists, and motorists. • Assault on the Carolinas • Identify/promote bicycle-friendly businesses. • Looking Glass Tour • Cross-market with other outdoor activities. • Hunter Subaru WNC Flyer • Etowah Time Trial Transylvania County is well positioned to grow this • Tour de Cashiers market opportunity into the local and regional tourism • White Squirrel Cycling Classic strategies. Combined with bicycle infrastructure • Pisgah Monster Cross improvements, this is a key way in which communities • Dirt Diggler and businesses across Transylvania County can efficiently move towards a more bicycle friendly region and Combined, these events bring thousands of bicyclists diversified economy. Furthermore, rides and races have and tourists to the county each year, presenting an an economic impact through lodging, food and supplies opportunity for communities and businesses to in particular. An economic impact study of these events capture tourism dollars and market local destinations should be conducted to better understand the extent of and rural amenities. this impact.
“Bikes in Beds”, a 2015 report in Haywood County, NC Further Information: details bicycle tourists and specifically bicyclists that participate in these types of rides and events. Many • Assault on the Carolinas - https://www. cyclists that engage in these types of events: assaultonthecarolinas.com/ • Looking Glass Tour - https://www. • Ride on 30-, 50-, or 100-mile single-day or multi- blueridgeadventures.net/looking-glass-tour/race-7/ day organized events and may do this with a • Hunter Subaru WNC Flyer - http://wncflyer.com/ group, a spouse/partner or friends. • Lung Buster Time Trail Series - https://idaph.net/ • Seek scenic areas or locations that offer some events/lung-buster-time-trial-series/ type of “reward” in terms of scenic beauty or • Tour de Cashiers - https://tourdecashiers.com/ historic value. • White Squirrel Cycling Classic - https://www. • May seek these events in places where they are blueridgeadventures.net/white_squirrel_cycling_ also planning a vacation. classic/race-8/ • Will identify pre-event ride cue sheets from local • Pisgah Monster Cross - http://www. bike clubs to scout the route. pisgahproductions.com/events/pisgah-monster- • Find events that contribute to a charity that cross-challenge/ matches their values. • Dirt Diggler - https://www.blueridgeadventures.net/ dirt-diggler/race-2/ Challenges for Event Bicyclists in Western NC include: • Lack of bike lanes/shoulders • Lack of signage/wayfinding • Terrain • Limited published routes
Event Cyclists’ needs may include: • Well-organized events • Convenient access • Bathrooms and parking • A safe, dry place to store their bike overnight • Healthy breakfast at lodging • Camping near event start • Scenic vistas or routes • Cool places to eat and drink Bike Transylvania is a publication of the Transylvania Times that hosts • Maps or cue sheets a website and publishes a yearly magazine in collaboration with the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority. Both the website • Bike shop for repair or rental and magazine serve as a comprehensive guide to bicycling in Transylvania 42 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN County, including as a resource for all rides and races in and near Transylvania County. MOUNTAIN BIKING INFRASTRUCTURE While Transylvania County includes over 200 miles of mountain biking trails in Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, and Gorges State Park, additional opportunities for mountain biking trails and parks should be explored and connected through the county. Transylvania County Parks and Recreation should consider including mountain biking trails in future park development and programming. To allow families to enjoy mountain biking together, beginning routes suitable for children and adults need to be added to complement the intermediate and advanced facilities found in the state and national forests.
Infrastructure specific to mountain biking is generally not considered during roadway/ transportation improvement projects. However, bicycle infrastructure projects recommended in this plan will enhance connectivity to mountain biking trails and destinations. Transylvania County has become a world class mountain biking destination, and mountain biking infrastructure connectivity should continue to be a priority.
Representatives of the mountain biking industry that have participated in this process should be included on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Above: Highly detailed maps, for purchase, have Committee recommended in this plan (see pages been produced by the Pisgah Map Company showing all mountain biking trails in Pisgah National Forest 49 & 51). Ranger District and DuPont State Forest. Left: The mission of the Transylvania County Schools Cycling Club for middle and high school students, is “To assist kids in finding a lifelong love of the outdoors through mountain biking, within a supportive community.” (Image from the Transylvania County Schools Cycling Club website). Below and to the left: The Brevard College Cycling Team competes at the highest levels collegiately, winning seven team national championships and nine individual national titles since 2007 (Image from the Bike Transylvania website). Further information on existing programs and resources, including mountain biking, can be found on pages 12 & 13 in Appendix D.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 43 VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM Funding for bicycle infrastructure can come from numerous sources. Appendix B details funding sources across different levels of government as well as private/non-profit sector sources. While some bicycle infrastructure projects in Transylvania County could be implemented as part of NCDOT roadway projects (State Transportation Improvement projects - see page 4 of Appendix B), a 20% local match will be required. Creating a voluntary bicycle infrastructure funding program for bicycle infrastructure can help support projects that require a match, or even fully finance independent bicycle infrastructure projects.
An ideal vehicle for managing a voluntary funding pool would be a local non-profit organization. The Blue Ridge Bicycle Club, who supported the local match required for this planning process, or a similar organization, could serve as the manager of a local voluntary funding pool.
With a robust bicycling and outdoor industry in Transylvania County, a voluntary funding program that is well advertised could be successful in creating seed money for bicycle infrastructure projects.
See Appendix B for further information on potential funding sources.
BICYCLE FACILITIES ON STEEP HILLS Steep hills and mountain roads are often places where limited shoulder and narrow overall road widths occur for significant distances. Bicyclists climbing these sections of road will be traveling at slower speeds. Even with lower traffic volume levels, cars may have difficulty passing bicyclists, and traffic may begin to accumulate behind a bicyclist. Pisgah Highway/US 276 and Parkway Road/NC 215 are salient examples.
Limited sight lines, narrow roadway widths, and steep grades contribute to this problem. Because of steep drop-offs and geographical constraints, a bicyclist may not have a safe opportunity to pull off to the side of the road and allow cars to pass. With cars sometimes traveling at higher speeds downhill in the opposite direction, opportunities to pass a cyclist (or group of cyclists) can be dangerous.
Bicyclist waiting areas/pull-offs or periodic segments of paved shoulder are a potential solution that could ameliorate this problem. This type of roadway feature could provide temporary refuge along the ascent of steep roads where bicyclists will be able to shift further to the right or pull over altogether, allowing a line of cars to pass. These may be more feasible solutions in places where geographical constraints and/or funding may limit the addition of paved shoulder along the entirety of a steep section of roadway.
Further Study Needed NCDOT policy (and lack of Federal policy) currently does not allow for periodic segments of paved shoulder along steep sections of roadway to serve as bicycle or automobile pull-offs. Paved shoulder along the length of a steep roadway is permitted. However, very long sections of steep roadway such as Pisgah Highway and Parkway Road in Transylvania County present particular problems since adding shoulder space along the length of the climb will be very difficult to implement due to geographical constraints and expense. Periodic segments of paved shoulder or pull-off areas could present a solution.
Further study is recommended to develop specific guidance for where and when periodic paved shoulder sections or designated bicycle pull-off areas may be appropriate and safe. Current engineering guidance does not specifically address this particular need and further research is needed before NCDOT may be able to apply such facilities.
Numerous mountainous roadways in Western North Carolina could benefit Long, steep, winding climbs can be from such guidance and a detailed study should be conducted. problematic for both bicyclists and automobiles wishing to pass slower moving traffic. If limited space is available to pass, this can cause significant traffic congestion for faster vehicles wishing to pass. Photo courtesy of Carmichael Training Systems. 44 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION AND TRAFFIC CALMING Lowering speed limits has enormous safety Speed reduction requests can be submitted benefits for all users, including bicyclists, by by citizens and public agencies to the NCDOT lowering both the rate and severity of crashes. Division 14 Traffic Engineer. See NCDOT Division In addition to a media campaign spreading 14 contact information here - https://apps.ncdot. NETWORKS MULTIMODAL RURAL AND TOWN SMALL awareness, enforcement of existing speed limits gov/dot/directory/authenticated/UnitPage. Yieldas well as strategicRoadway speed limit reduction and aspx?id=653 traffic calming measures (the latter typically MARKINGS INTERSECTIONS found on local streets), can save lives. W11-2 No markings are necessary to At uncontrolled crossings of local implement a yield roadway. streets, no special treatment is necessary. The additional space within A DoPEDESTRIAN not mark a center HIT BYline Awithin the A PEDESTRIAN HIT BY A A PEDESTRIAN HIT BY A • the intersection area offers queuing VEHICLEtravel area. TRAVELING The single two-way AT lane VEHICLE TRAVELING AT VEHICLE TRAVELING AT opportunities when vehicles traveling in introduces helpful traffic friction and 25 MPH 35 MPH opposite directions45 meet. MPH ambiguity, contributing to a slow- speed operating environment.(vi) Consider parking prohibitions of • 30 30 20–50 ft (6.0–15.0 m) in30 advance of 20 40 20 40 intersections. This20 is particularly40 SIGNS 10 50 10 50 helpful to accommodate10 large vehicle50 W6-3 turning movements. Use signs to warn road users of the special characteristics of the street. Provide adequate stopping sight 0 SURVIVABILITY 60 0 SURVIVABILITY 60 • 0 SURVIVABILITY 60 Potential signs include: distance around curves and at uncontrolled intersections. Values of % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % • A PEDESTRIAN10 30 50 (W11-2)70 90 warning sign 10 30 50 70 90 stopping sight10 distance30 50 for 70two-way90 with ON ROADWAY legend plaque. single-lane roads should be twice (vii) HAS ANSee Figure 2-3. CHANCE OF HAS A CHANCE OF the stoppingHAS A sight distance forCHANCE a OF 89% SURVIVAL 68% SURVIVAL comparable 35%two-lane road. SURVIVAL • Use a Two-Way Traffic warning sign Figure 2-3. Pair a W6-3W11-1, W1-2, or W11-15 (W6-3) to clarify two-way operation of warning sign with a custom legend plaque Tefft, B.the C. Impactroad speedif any and confusion a pedestrian's exists. risk of severe injuryto or inform death. Accident road users Analysis that & shared Prevention use 50 by (2013) 871-878. pedestrians and/or bicyclists might occur.
Sisters, OR–Population 2,170
Without dedicated bicycle infrastructure separated from roadways, speed limits become very important for bicyclists (and motorists) wishing to use the roadway.
IMPLEMENTATION ACCESSIBILITY
In rural communities with a disconnected street network, Yield roadways allow motor vehicles, bicyclists, and local streets are the only viable connection to a scene of an pedestrians to share the same space. On very low-volume emergency. Implementing agencies should work closely with and low-speed streets, pedestrians and bicyclists may be emergency response stakeholders. comfortable using the roadway with the occasional vehicle. If RECOMMENDATIONS l 45 this facility is intended for use by pedestrians, it must meet accessibility guidelines for walkways.
2-6 POLICY CONSIDERATIONS The policy considerations presented in the tables on the following pages were developed through the lens of the project vision and goals, specifically, the vision of making Transylvania County a place where:Transylvania County will have an interconnected network of paved paths, bike lanes, and other bike infrastructure that will provide greater safety, health, connectivity, and alternative transportation routes between communities and destinations in Transylvania County and throughout the region.
TABLE 4.1 Topics/Strategies General Recommendations Support bike accommodations by roadway type See Chapter 4 of the NCDOT Complete Streets Planning and Design Guidelines for recommendations of bikeway type by roadway type. Consider including these guidelines by reference in local design guidance or requirements.
The NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide provides additional design details for various on-street bikeway treatments and could be adopted by reference in regional ordinances and/or engineering standards. Many cities have taken this approach.
Resources: FHWA Small Town and Rural Multimodal Network Guide: http://ruraldesignguide.com/ NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide http://nacto.org/cities-for-cycling/design-guide/ FHWA Separated Bikelane Planning and Design Guide: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/ publications/separated_bikelane_pdg/page00.cfm
During the future amendments to the subdivision Consider requirements for greenway reservation, dedication, or provision in new developments where a greenway ordinance consider requiring dedication, or trail is shown on an adopted plan or where a property connects to an existing or proposed greenway. Where reservation or development of greenways with new greenway construction cannot politically be required, consider offering incentives in the form of reduced fees, cost development, redevelopment, and roadway projects sharing, density bonuses, or reduction in other open space requirements when adopted greenway alignments are for subdivisions with over 10 lots. constructed through private development. See the incentives offered by the City of Asheville to promote public policy goals. For example: http://www.ashevillenc.gov/departments/sustainability/resources.htm
For additional examples of incentives, see also: https://www.law.ufl.edu/_pdf/academics/centers-clinics/clinics/ conservation/resources/incentive_strategies.pdf
Ideally, development regulations should require the construction and maintenance of greenways to local standards unless a maintenance agreement is established with a local government.
See requirements in Wake Forest, NC UDO, Section 6.8.2 Greenways: “When required by Wake Forest Open Space & Greenways Plan or the Wake Forest Transportation Plan, greenways and multi-use paths shall be provided according to the provisions [that follow in the section cited above].” http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx
Good Model: (New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance): The Riverfront Mixed Use District includes the following provision: “Riverfront facilities shall provide multi-modal transportation opportunities, including public boating, walking, bicycling, and public bus or water taxi uses and the facilities necessary for such uses.”
Require new bike lanes, greenways, etc., to connect Connectivity of facilities is critical for walking and biking conditions. New commercial development should be to existing facilities when located along a priority required to connect to or extend existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities. project identified in Chapter 3. See: Chapters 6 of Wake Forest, NC UDO for recommendations for bikeways and greenways, esp. sections 6.5.3, 6.8.2, 6.9, 6.10. http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx Chapter 7 of the Wilson, NC UDO regarding greenways. http://www.wilsonnc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ CH-7-Parks-Open-Space.pdf
Good Model: (New Hanover County Zoning Ordinance): The EDZD Zoning District provides points for new developments that connect to the existing bikeway network and key destinations and provides a good definition of the bikeway network. (Section 54.1-14 and following.)
Adopt traffic calming programs, policies, and Traffic calming tools are especially important where bike routes or bike boulevards are proposed on local residential standards in areas of the county where the or sub-collector streets. community has identified this as a need The National Complete Streets Coalition provides good guidelines for traffic calming through their best practices Traffic calming on local streets increases safety and manual: (https://smartgrowthamerica.org/resources/). comfort for all roadway users, including cyclists. It also increases neighborhood livability. See also the NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide section on Bicycle Boulevards and the FHWA Traffic Calming Primer: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/speedmgt/traffic_calm.cfm
Consider requiring other traffic calming measures that improve the pedestrian and biking environment such as street trees, narrow street width standards, and T intersections.
46 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN Topics/Strategies (continued) General Recommendations Adopt bicycle parking requirements for new Parks Bicycles should receive equal consideration when calculating parking needs with specific calculations provided for and open space developments. determining the amount of bicycle parking provided by district type or land use type. Design and location standards for bicycle parking should be clearly stated to provide for safe and convenient access to destinations. Different standards of bicycle parking are needed for short-term visitors and customers and for longer term users like employees, residents, and students.
See City of Wilson UDO, Chapter 9: Parking & Driveways, Section 9.4 and 9.6: http://www.wilsonnc.org/wp-content/ uploads/2014/12/CH-9-Parking-Driveways-.pdf
Good standards for bicycle parking design can be found through the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals’ Bicycle Parking Guidelines. (www.apbp.org)
Bicycle Parking Model Ordinance, Change Lab Solutions: http://changelabsolutions.org/publications/bike-parking
Consider limiting dead end streets or cul-de-sacs Make the maximum length for Cul-de-sacs 250-300 feet to limit the distance that a person would have to travel when revising the subdivision ordinance along a cul-de-sac.
Dead end streets or Cul-de-sacs, while good at For good model language, see City of Wilson, NC UDO, Section 6.4: Connectivity: http://www.wilsonnc.org/wp- limiting motor vehicular traffic in an area, are content/uploads/2014/12/CH-6-Infrastructure-Standards.pdf a severe hindrance to pedestrian and bicycle connectivity and overall neighborhood accessibility, Or City of Wake Forest, NC UDO, Section 6.5, Connectivity: http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx including for emergency access and other services.
The documents to the right were referenced for this REFERENCED DOCUMENTS AND RESOURCES: policy and regulatory review. • NCDOT Complete Streets Planning and Design Guidelines (July 2012): http://www.completestreetsnc.org/wp- content/themes/CompleteStreets_Custom/pdfs/NCDOT-Complete-Streets-Planning-Design-Guidelines.pdf • NCDOT Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Guidelines: https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/Roadway/ RoadwayDesignAdministrativeDocuments/Traditional%20Neighborhood%20Development%20Manual.pdf • City of Wilson, NC UDO: https://www.wilsonnc.org/development-services/unified-development-ordinance/ • Town of Wendell, NC UDO: http://www.townofwendell.com/departments/planning/development/zoning/udo- unified-development-ordinance • City of Wake Forest, NC UDO: http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/udo.aspx • Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals’ Bicycle Parking Guidelines. (www.apbp.org) • Making Neighborhoods More Walkable and Bikeable, ChangeLab Solutions: http://changelabsolutions.org/sites/ default/files/MoveThisWay_FINAL-20130905.pdf • Getting the Wheels Rolling: A Guide to Using Policy to Create Bicycle Friendly Communities, ChangeLab Solutions http://changelabsolutions.org/bike-policies
….And other documents noted in this column in the preceding tables.
SUPPORTIVE STATE AND FEDERAL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES: These policies describe how bicycle and pedestrian improvements are to be implemented in North Carolina. For full policies, visit: https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/BikePed/Pages/Policies-Guidelines.aspxDevelop. • Complete Streets: N.C. Department of Transportation policy on when and how planners and designers should design streets and roads to accommodate all users, including accommodations for bicyclists and pedestrians, in transportation projects. • Bicycle Policy & Guidelines: N.C. Department of Transportation policy and guidelines for planning, designing, building, main- taining and operating bicycle facilities and accommodations. • Greenway Accommodations Memo: Approved in 2015, N.C. Department of Transportation guidelines, approaches and cost-sharing recommendations for proposed greenways under bridges. • Administrative Action to Include Greenway Plans: N.C. Department of Transportation administrative guidelines for considering greenways and greenway crossings during the highway planning process to ensure that critical corridors for future greenways are not severed by highway construction. • Pedestrian Policy & Guidelines: N.C. Department of Transportation policy and guidelines for planning, designing, building, maintaining and operating pedestrian facilities and accommodations. • Bridge Policy: N.C. Department of Transportation policy establishing design elements for new and reconstructed bridges on the state’s road system, including requirements for sidewalks and bicycle facilities on bridges. • Traffic Engineering Policies, Practices and Legal Authority: N.C. Department of Transportation policies and federal design guidelines for specific pedestrian and bicycle safety accommodations.
RECOMMENDATIONS l 47 CHAPTER 4: IMPLEMENTATION
48 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN OVERVIEW This chapter defines a structure and the action FORM A COUNTY BICYCLE AND steps for managing the implementation of PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE. the Transylvania County Bicycle Plan. The The Stakeholder Group, formed for this award-winning 2025 Comprehensive Plan for project, should be maintained to assist in plan Transylvania County identified four focus areas: implementation and evaluation. The Committee economic health, environment health, land use should meet quarterly or biannually to assess and and livability, and health, culture, and equity. monitor progress. At a minimum, the Committee Arguably, a more bikable Transylvania County would have representation from Transylvania helps to address all of these focus areas in terms County, NCDOT, the Land of Sky RPO, and the of economy, environment, livability, and health. municipalities within Transylvania County. One of the specific objectives is: “Promote[s] the health and well-being of its citizens, by UPDATE COUNTY POLICIES. providing and actively supporting high-quality Policy recommendations are presented in Table and well maintained parks, recreational facilities, 4.1 in Chapter 3. In their essence, new policies programs and services throughout the county.” and updated existing policies are low-cost or zero- In addition, the Comprehensive Plan states cost means for the county to influence or enforce that in and around Brevard has a large bicycling bikeable transportation corridors and development. population with higher than typical rates of Priority network recommendations should be bicycle commuting. implemented as part of roadway projects that align with the priority recommendations in Chapter 3. Currently, the ordinances in place that guide development, zoning, and land use are the BEGIN WORK ON PRIORITY PROJECTS. County Subdivision Regulations and the Pisgah The implementation of bikeway infrastructure Forest Community Zoning Ordinance. The projects will take time and will happen through zoning ordinance, however, only exists for a multiple mechanisms including the NCDOT SPOT very small area in Pisgah Forest and there is no process, rails to trails, park and open space zoning for the rest of the county. Today, within development, and incidental improvements these ordinances, there are no land use and that can happen during scheduled roadway development regulations that promote bikeable reconstruction, resurfacing, or maintenance. new development, programs, and capital Because infrastructure is the high dollar item (and projects. See Appendix E for further detail on most critical) part of this plan, the county and comprehensive policy considerations related bicycle advocates should consider setting aside to complete streets and greenways, bicycle- a revenue stream for local match or standalone oriented design, and connectivity. projects.
Implementing the recommendations within ENGAGE NEW this plan will require leadership and dedication PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH. to bicycle facility and program development on Program recommendations can be found in Chapter the part of a variety of agencies and partners. 3. The county is already involved in the Watch Equally critical, and perhaps more challenging, for Me NC campaign and should begin engaging will be meeting the need for a recurring source all program recommendations in 2019, working of revenue. Success will be realized through closely across departments, including Parks and collaboration with regional and state agencies, Recreation, Planning, and the Sheriff’s Office. local municipalities, the private sector, and non- Research bicycle “pull-outs” or respites along profit organizations. Funding resources that may bicycle routes, especially where paved shoulder be available are presented in Appendix B of this cannot be provided due to topographical or other plan. constraints.
KEY STEPS CONTINUE BUILDING COUNTY- The following represent key, immediate action MUNICIPAL PARTNERSHIPS. steps for Transylvania County and its partners: For Transylvania County to improve bicycle connectivity, coordination will be important with ADOPT THE PLAN. the City of Brevard, Town of Rosman, and others. Adoption does not obligate the county financially, The City of Brevard, at the time of this study, is but signals an intent to support the vision, goals, pursuing greenway and bikeway development and projects of this plan in the coming years and that will feed towards the county. As the region decades. grows and new bike facilities are added, there should be regular coordination in planning and implementation. IMPLEMENTATION l 49 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPLEMENTING THE TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN Project development opportunities and key players are summarized in this graphic. To implement the recommendations of this plan will require a comprehensive, well-rounded approach with public and private partnerships.
Projects funded by state, Federal, and Public-private partnerships for programs other grants (FAST ACT, BUILD, PARTF, & support facilities (sometimes for CWMTF, etc.) (Local match) large projects) (Private businesses, County & Foundations, Non-profits, etc) Municipal Partners
Federal Funding Local priorities from the Transylvania County Bicycle Plan into Comprehensive Transportation Plans & Long Range Transportation Plans NCDOT STI “Division Needs” Projects Projects leveraged from multiple funding sources
NCDOT Division Land of Sky 14 RPO /NCDOT-DBPT Incidental projects during street resurfacing & major street improvements (20% local match; on-road facilities, such as bike lanes do not require match)
Policy support for bicycle facility Dedicated local funding to finance priority development (or ROW dedication) standalone bicycle projects, as done with during residential & commercial other transportation investments (Capital development (sidewalks, bike parking, Improvement Program, Transportation Bonds, etc) etc)
50 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN KEY PARTNERS IN IMPLEMENTATION
ROLE OF THE COUNTY BOARD OF ROLE OF THE LOCAL NCDOT DIVISION COMMISSIONERS 14 The County Board should be responsible for Division 14 of the NCDOT is responsible for the understanding and adopting this plan. The Board construction and maintenance of bicycle facilities will ultimately determine the timing of action steps, on NCDOT-owned and maintained roadways in dedication of resources, and policy updates to Transylvania County, or is expected to allow for implement this plan. the municipalities to do so with encroachment agreements. The county and its communities should ROLE OF THE CITY/TOWN COUNCILS be proactive and take the lead in communicating Brevard, Rosman, and township leaders should with and working with Division 14, but Division 14 be responsible for understanding and endorsing should also be prepared to do the following, as they (or adopting) this plan. Through adoption, the are able: municipalities and townships signal support and cooperation with Transylvania County to assist with • Recognize this plan as not only an adopted plan plan implementation. of the county, but also as an approved plan of the NCDOT. ROLE OF THE TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY • Become familiar with the bicycle facility PLANNING BOARD recommendations for NCDOT roadways in this The Planning Board serves as an advisory board to the plan (Chapter 3); take initiative in incorporating Board of Commissioners on matters of planning and this plan’s recommendations into the Division’s zoning. The Planning Board should be prepared to: schedule of improvements whenever possible. • Become familiar with the design standards • Become familiar with the recommendations of this listed in Appendix A of this plan; construct plan, and consider supporting its implementation. and maintain recommended facilities using • During subdivision master plan review, ensure the highest standards allowed by the State required space for priority projects if applicable. (including the use of innovative treatments on • Consider bicycle infrastructure needs when a trial basis). updating ordinances. • Notify county staff of all upcoming roadway • Learn about bicycle-related policies in North reconstruction or resurfacing/restriping Carolina. (see: https://connect.ncdot.gov/ projects in Transylvania County, no later than projects/BikePed/Pages/Policies-Guidelines.aspx) the design phase. Provide sufficient time for comments from county staff, advisory boards, ROLE OF THE BICYCLE AND and elected officials. PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE • If needed, seek guidance and direction from The Committee (recommended in this plan) should be the NCDOT Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian prepared to: Transportation on issues related to this plan and its implementation. • Meet with county and municipal staff and evaluate progress of the plan’s implementation and offer ROLE OF THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE input regarding bicycle and trail-related issues. Sheriff and police departments are responsible for • Assist county staff in applying for grants and providing the community the highest quality law organizing bicycle-related events and educational enforcement service and protection to ensure the activities (such as programs recommended in safety of the citizens and visitors. The Sheriff’s Chapter 3). Office should be prepared to: • Build upon current levels of local support for bicycle issues and advocate for local project • Become experts on bicycle related laws in funding. North Carolina (see: https://www.ncdot.gov/ divisions/bike-ped/Pages/bike-ped-laws.aspx). PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION • Continue to enforce not only bicycle- and Supporting this plan will assist the commission in pedestrian-related laws, but also motorist laws implementing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. that affect bicycling, such as speeding, running red lights, aggressive driving, etc. • Participate in bicycle-related education programs. • Review safety considerations as projects are implemented. IMPLEMENTATION l 51 ROLE OF DEVELOPERS • Encouraging people to speak at Board Developers in Transylvania County can play an meetings and advocate for local bicycle important role in facility development whenever project and program funding. a project can include the enhancement of • Fundraising for project implementation. transportation facilities or the dedication and • Attend the Transportation Advisory development of on-road bicycle facilities, Committee meetings and encourage sidewalks, trails or crossing facilities. Developers transportation projects that are multi- should be prepared to: modal. • Become familiar with the benefits, both financial and otherwise, of providing amenities ROLE OF VOLUNTEERS for biking (including trails) in residential and Services from volunteers, students, and seniors, commercial developments. or donations of material and equipment may • Consider voluntary installation of bike be provided in-kind, to offset construction and infrastructure and/or contribute in-lieu fees maintenance costs. Formalized maintenance as part of the subdivision review and approval agreements, such as adopt-a-trail/greenway process. or adopt-a-highway can be used to provide a • Be prepared to account for bicycle circulation regulated service agreement with volunteers. and connectivity in future developments. Other efforts and projects can be coordinated ROLE OF LOCAL & REGIONAL as needed with senior class projects, scout STAKEHOLDERS projects, interested organizations, clubs or a Stakeholders for bicycle facility development neighborhood’s community service to provide and related programs, such as Transylvania for many of the program ideas outlined in Transportation Advisory Committee, Land of Sky Chapter 3 of this plan. Advantages of utilizing RPO, Brevard College, Friends of the Ecusta Trail, volunteers include reduced or donated planning and other local organizations play important roles and construction costs, community pride and in the implementation of this plan. Local and personal connections to the county’s trail, regional stakeholders should be prepared to: bicycle, and pedestrian networks. • Become familiar with the recommendations of this plan, and communicate & coordinate with PERFORMANCE MEASURES the county for implementation, specifically (EVALUATION AND in relation to funding opportunities, such as MONITORING) grant writing and developing local matches for Transylvania County should establish facility construction. performance measures to benchmark progress • Land of Sky RPO should work with the towards fulfilling the recommendations of this Transylvania County on submitting bicycle plan. Advocates and advisory boards should infrastructure projects for evaluation within play a key role in presenting these performance the State Transportation Improvement measures in an annual evaluation update. Program (STIP). Performance measures could address the • Transylvania County should coordinate with its following aspects of bicycle transportation and municipalities on trail development. recreation: • Business owners and organizations should • Safety. Measures of bicycle-related crashes look for opportunities to partner on specific and injuries. projects, such as trail connectivity, streetscape • Facilities. Measures of how many bicycle improvements, or comprehensive signage and facilities have been funded and constructed wayfinding projects. since the plan’s adoption. • Maintenance. Measures of existing bicycle ROLE OF LOCAL RESIDENTS, CLUBS facility deficiency or maintenance needs. AND ADVOCACY GROUPS • Counts. Measures of bicycle traffic at specific Transylvania County has a solid foundation of locations. local businesses and organizations that support • Education, Encouragement and Enforcement. bicycling. This groups will also play a key role in the Measures of the number of people who success of this plan. Bicycle advocates should be have participated in part of a bicycle-related prepared to engage local residents and groups by: program since the plan’s adoption. • Asking for input regarding bicycling issues • The League of American Bicyclists website • Enlisting volunteers for bicycle-related events should be consulted for further information and educational activities and/or to participate on performance measures - https:// in such activities. bikeleague.org/content/5-es. 52 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN FACILITY DEVELOPMENT term, all new roads with moderate to heavy METHODS motor vehicle traffic should have bicycle facilities This section describes different construction and safe intersections. However, sidepaths can methods for the proposed bicycle facilities be an acceptable solution when a road has few outlined in Chapter 3. Note that many types driveways and high-speed, high-volume traffic. of transportation facility construction and maintenance projects can be used to create new REPAVING bicycle facilities. It is much more cost-effective If right of way allows, repaving projects provide to provide bicycle facilities during roadway a clean slate for revising pavement markings. construction and reconstruction projects than When a road is repaved, the roadway should be to initiate the improvements later as “retrofit” restriped to create narrower lanes and provide projects. space for bike lanes and shoulders, where feasible. In addition, if the spaces on the sides To take advantage of upcoming opportunities of non-curb and gutter streets have relatively and to incorporate bicycle facilities into routine level grades and few obstructions, the total transportation and utility projects, Transylvania pavement width can be widened to include County should keep track of NCDOT’s projects and paved shoulders. any other local transportation improvements. While doing this, county staff should be aware of While many roadways in Transylvania County the different procedures for state and local roads. are narrow with little right of way space, this is important to note for roads such as US 64 where NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT the right of way is very wide. OF TRANSPORTATION (NCDOT) STRATEGIC TRANSPORTATION NCDOT provides three-year plans that include INVESTMENTS (STI) resurfacing schedules. Please see the following The NCDOT’s State Transportation Improvement website - https://connect.ncdot.gov/resources/ Program is based on the Strategic Transportation Asset-Management/HMIP-Plans/Pages/HMIP. Investments Bill, signed into law in 2013. aspx. The Strategic Transportation Investments (STI) Initiative introduces the Strategic BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION OR Mobility Formula, a way to fund and prioritize REPLACEMENT transportation projects. Provisions should always be made to include a bicycling facility as a part of vehicular All independent bicycle projects are placed in bridges. All new or replacement bridges should the “Division Needs” category, and are currently accommodate two-way travel for all users. Even ranked based on 50% data (safety, access, though bridge construction and replacement demand, connectivity, and cost effectiveness) does not occur regularly, it is important to and 50% local input. See Appendix B for more consider these policies for long-term bicycle information. planning.
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL EASEMENTS DEVELOPMENT The county does not own water and sewer The construction of bicycle facilities and infrastructure but should consider encourageing trails should be considered during structural/ utility companies to allow public use of their commercial development. Construction of easements. Sewer easements are very commonly facilities that corresponds with site construction used for this purpose, offering cleared and is more cost-effective than retrofitting. In graded corridors that easily accommodate trails. commercial development, emphasis should also This approach avoids the difficulties associated be focused on safe bicyclist access into, within, with acquiring land, and it better utilizes the and through large parking lots. This ensures the county’s resources. future growth of the bicycle networks and the development of safe communities.
LOCAL ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION OR RECONSTRUCTION Bicyclists should be accommodated any time a new road is constructed or an existing road is reconstructed that aligns with the priority recommendations in chapter 3. In the longer- IMPLEMENTATION l 53 Transylvania County Bicycle Plan
Prepared for Transylvania County & NCDOT Prepared by Alta Planning + Design
2019
54 l TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY BICYCLE PLAN