The City of Auburn announced on April 17 that it has received grant funding to develop an Active Transportation Plan and a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. These plans were created in partnership with the community to outline strategies for improving safety and increasing opportunities for walking and biking in Auburn.
The development of these plans is intended to address issues related to street safety, public health, and accessibility. By focusing on safer infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, and scooter riders, the city aims to reduce injuries and fatalities while promoting healthier lifestyles.
According to the city, the Active Transportation Plan offers a comprehensive vision for a network of trails, bike lanes, sidewalks, and other elements designed to connect people safely throughout Auburn. The Comprehensive Safety Action Plan is focused specifically on reducing or eliminating serious injury and fatal crashes among all roadway users.
The city outlined several potential benefits from these efforts: reduced deaths and injuries on local roads; neighborhoods that are safer and more inviting; improved connections between families, schools, workplaces, dining areas, and transit stops; better public health outcomes; lower air pollution levels; as well as cost savings related to gas purchases or car maintenance.
Implementation timelines for projects identified in either plan may range from three years up to a decade or longer. Officials emphasized that adoption of these plans does not commit Auburn to immediate spending but represents an important first step toward securing future funding. Subsequent steps will include applying for grants needed both for planning/design work as well as eventual construction.
