Source: Brattleboro Reformer, April 7, 2011, by Jaime Cone
“BRATTLEBORO — The results of a recently released AARP study of Brattleboro’s intersections and sidewalks clearly state that the town could have more pedestrian-friendly streets. Overall, the volunteers that walked Brattleboro’s roads Sept. 24, 2010, found the intersections surveyed to be in “fair to poor” condition for crossing the street and “good to poor” for driver behavior. The survey came about as part of AARP Vermont’s statewide initiative “Complete Streets Week: Making Vermont Walkable for All Generations.” According to it’s website, AARP supports Complete Streets because as people get older they drive less or hang up the keys altogether. This life change can mean a lower quality of life, less independence and isolation if alternative ways of getting around are not available. So AARP volunteers partnered with local community organizations and residents to survey intersections in Brattlboro, Burlington, St. Johnsbury and Rutland. Approximately 30 volunteers participated in the review of these intersections with guidance provided by AARP staff at each location. The surveys were used to assess multiple factors ranging from the condition of the infrastructure to the behavior of drivers and pedestrians. In Brattleboro, volunteers walked the area near the “triangle”– the Main Street/Park Place/Linden Street area. They also focused on the other end of Main Street, the intersection of Route 5 and Route 142. The intersections at Canal Street and Fairground Road were surveyed as well, and Vernon Street and Royal Road were looked at on a different day. The study is an effort to not only identify needed improvements but to also spotlight the need to for lawmakers to address the broader issue in Montpelier. Complete Streets legislation, or House Bill 198, is slated to be taken up for testimony on Wednesday, according to Rep. Mollie Burke, P/D-Brattleboro. The bill proposes to modify Vermont’s transportation policy to require that the needs of all users of Vermont’s transportation system — including motorists, bicyclists, public transportation users and pedestrians of all ages and abilities — be considered and accommodated in state and locally managed transportation projects…” Full Story: AARP surveys town intersections PDF of Story: AARP surveys town intersections
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