Sleznikow stated that he has seen more people riding the bikes. Jacob stated
that there are also some additional places being considered and/or requested
for facilities. They hope to expand to have more stations on the north side and
one by the convention center. Jackie Eastwood asked for the exact locations of
the new facilities. Jacob directed her to the website where all of them are
mapped out.
2
Staff informed the Committee about the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant
opportunity to develop a Vision Zero plan for the community. Having this plan
in place would allow the City to apply for funding sources for bicycle and
pedestrian facilities along with other safety measures. Stephanie asked if it
was a reimbursable grant. Staff stated that it was. Stephanie clarify that the
City would then have to pay for all of it first. Larry asked what the cost of a
plan would be. Staff stated that other communities have spent $200k. Larry
asked about timeline of grant. Staff stated that we could apply this year, grant
agreement in 2024 and then finish the project within 1-5 years. Larry stated that
is sounds like we may have the time to allocate funding Jeff asked who would
manage the plan. Staff stated that they would manage both the completion of
the plan and the implementation of it. Cathy asked how this plan would tie into
the Climate Action Plan. Staff stated that making routes safer for all road users
can help reduce car dependency which ties into that plan.
Robbie Young expressed his concern about spending that much money on a
plan if there is not comprehensive support for its implementation after its
completed. He said all departments have to be committed to the plan in order
to implement and execute the plan.
Jeff moved to have staff move forward with submitting an application. Randi
Pueschner seconded. The motion passed by voice vote 7-0.
Recap of Community Transportation Academy.
3
CM Sleznikow stated that he attended the Community Transportation Academy
that was offered by 1000 Friends of Wisconsin. CM Sleznikow stated the several
speakers that attended and different topics they discussed at the academy. CM
Sleznikow stated that there was a lot of information provided. For the first class
and for free it was a great opportunity. Staff added that a webinar about the
academy is being provided on May 17th. Staff who attended added it would be
good to include all members of the community, not just advocates, to learn
about transportation and mobility. Randi Pueschner stated she enjoyed
discussing with like minded people, but agreed with staff that it would be a
good goal to get others to participate in the academy. Cathy Van Maren stated
that we should find a way to keep it going in La Crosse.
Update on Wagon Wheel Trail.
4
Staff informed the Committee that they were not awarded congressionally
directed funding for the Wagon Wheel Trail project but are still waiting to hear
about the RAISE grant. Staff stated they are working on applying for funds for
the extra costs of planning and construction due to inflation since receiving the
Transportation Alternatives Program Grant. Staff stated they also have monthly
meetings with the consultant hired to complete the studies/surveys for the
project.
