Governor Rell Signs Bill Aimed at

Boosting Bicycle, Pedestrian Access

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she has signed into law a bill intended to improve access for pedestrians and bicyclists by directing 1 percent of future highway and street funds to such purposes and establishing an advisory board to work with the Governor, the Department of Transportation and the Legislature in the future.

            Under the bill, beginning October 1, 2010, a minimum of 1 percent of the total funds received by the DOT or Connecticut municipality in any fiscal year for street and highway construction, restoration, rehabilitation or relocation must be spent to provide facilities for “all users” – including bikeways and sidewalks with curb cuts or ramps.

            The law makes exceptions for resurfacing and for emergency repairs and other special situations, such as roads where non-motorized use is prohibited or the costs of “all-user” accommodations would be prohibitive.

            “Walking and bicycling are more than healthy lifestyle choices – for many Connecticut commuters, they are the way to get to work,” Governor Rell said. “We want to encourage that, not only because it’s good for personal fitness but because it removes congestion from our highways and pollutants – including greenhouse gases – from our skies. The bill also dovetails neatly with my Administration’s emphasis on smart growth and transit-oriented development, which calls for communities that make it easier for people to get to work, home and shopping without having to drive.

            “In addition, this bill creates a new, 11-member panel to ensure that the focus on ‘all-user’ transportation options continues to be a priority,” the Governor said. “The panel will promote programs and facilities that encourage alternatives to driving and help the state develop the best ways to promote this important option.”

            Under the bill, the DOT will also be required to report – once by October 1, 2009, and again by October 1, 2010 – on state- or federally funded projects that have been undertaken that contain bicycle and pedestrian access.

            The new law – Senate Bill 735, An Act Improving Bicycle and Pedestrian Access – takes effect July 1.