Community members and local officials gathered at five locations around Alabama this fall to give input for the Alabama’s Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan that is being updated. The workshops are part of ongoing efforts by the Alabama Department of Transportation to establish a vision for safe and accessible bicycling and walking across the state. During the workshops, the public had an opportunity to ask questions, voice ideas, and learn more about how these transportation options fit into Alabama’s future.
The Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan is designed to set a framework for biking and walking as practical modes of travel. ALDOT aims to guide investments in trails, bike lanes, sidewalks, and other facilities that help residents travel safely while making the most of limited resources. During the meeting, attendees learned about project goals and asked questions to understand more about the plan’s vision and potential impact.
Key Questions from the Community
A few of the questions from community members highlighted important aspects of the plan and ALDOT’s commitment to safety:
Q: How will ALDOT balance the funding for vehicle-related projects and these new bike and pedestrian projects?
ALDOT officials acknowledged that funding is limited, so they are focusing on making strategic investments in high-impact areas. They are seeking to maximize available resources, prioritizing locations with high demand and areas where investments will improve safety for people who choose to walk or bike.
Q: Will ALDOT consider adding more signage or education programs for bicyclist and pedestrian safety?
Those in attendance were assured that ALDOT is already looking into educational programs to increase awareness among drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike. In addition to physical changes, they want to encourage safe habits that help everyone share the road responsibly.
For those interested in following the progress of Alabama’s bicycle and pedestrian initiatives, please visit the Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan webpage.
“These workshops are all about getting feedback from the public,” said ALDOT spokesperson Allison Green. “There’s limited funding for bike and pedestrian projects. So, this is how state and local leaders learn from the public about the specific locations where bicycle and pedestrian transportation improvements might be needed.”
With this meeting, ALDOT continues to welcome feedback and ideas that will help shape Alabama’s bike and pedestrian network, giving residents a voice in the planning process. The department remains committed to making Alabama’s roads safer and more accessible for everyone.
