Thursday, August 4, 2016

Rolling forward: D.C. bicycling report for July 2016

Highlights of BAC accomplishments in July:

The BAC held its regular bimonthly meeting on July 6. The main agency report came from DDOT's trails coordinator, who updated about the Rock Creek Park rehabilitation project (involving DDOT and the National Park Service) and the proposed New York Avenue NE trail between NoMa and the National Arboretum.

The BAC monitored the July 12 D.C. Council vote on the Motor Vehicle Collision Recovery Act of 2016, known as the contributory negligence bill. The BAC issued a statement which was quoted in the Washington City Paper. The BAC will continue to monitor the bill when it is scheduled for a second vote in the fall.

A BAC representative attended the monthly D.C. Pedestrian Advisory Council meeting on July 25. The main agency reports came from the Department of Recreation and Parks and the Metropolitan Police Department.

A BAC representative attended a July 26 meeting to discuss ways to improve transportation in Ward 7. The meeting, part of DDOT's Far Southeast III Livability Study, sought community input about transportation and related quality-of-life issues in the neighborhoods of Fort Dupont, Fort Davis, Twining, Greenway, Benning Heights, Civic Betterment, Benning Ridge, Marshall Heights and Capitol View.

This month: August activities

The BAC will monitor an Aug. 10 community meeting about the Maryland Avenue NE Pedestrian Safety Project. The meeting, taking place at the Northeast Branch Library (330 7th St NE) at 6:30 p.m., will focus on ANC and community feedback about the current plans to redesign the road to improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety.

The BAC is hosting a community meet and greet on Aug. 11 to talk informally with bicyclists about getting involved and seeking appointment to the BAC. We'll also have brochures and experts available to help teach beginners about bicycle commuting as an alternative to Metrorail closures and delays. The event takes place at 5:30 p.m. at Right Proper Brewing Co. (624 T St NW).

The BAC Facilities Committee is leading  a crosstown fact-finding ride along K Street from northeast to Georgetown on Aug. 13.

The BAC Safety, Education and Enforcement Committee meets on Aug. 15 at 6 p.m. at Busboys & Poets (1025 5th St NW).

The BAC Legislative Committee meets on Aug. 17 at 6 p.m. at Teaism (400 8th St NW).

The BAC is monitoring public meetings concerning the rehabilitation of Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park and DDOT's Rock Creek East II Livability Study.

The BAC has a new Facebook page. Please RSVP to our meetings and events there.