PUBLIC ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE
IN UPCOMING RECREATIONAL TRAILS PLAN
(06/49) TRENTON -- Department of Environmental Protection
Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson and Department of Transportation Commissioner
Kris Kolluri today encouraged residents to share their ideas about
the future of New Jersey's network of recreational trails by participating
in several forums being held this month and in October.
"Whether they are hiking, biking, watching wildlife or enjoying
scenic landscapes, the public values the quality recreational opportunities
that New Jersey's trails offer year round," Commissioner Jackson
said. "We invite residents to share their views and help us
shape a comprehensive plan for New Jersey's trails over the next
20 years."
"Although investment in mass transit and roadway improvements
is critical to improving New Jersey's transportation system, we
also must provide attractive recreation options and alternatives
to increased use of our congested roadways," said Commissioner
Kolluri. "Bicycle trails are an integral part of our transportation
network. Enhancing bicycle trails reduces congestion, improves safety
and preserves air quality and the quality of life."
Bicycle safety is a key component of New Jersey's transportation
investment strategy. Approximately $20 million of DOT's Fiscal Year
2007 Capital Program is dedicated to bicycle and pedestrian transportation
enhancements. Separating bicycle and vehicular traffic through bicycle
trails and paths improves safety and encourages the use of alternate
means of transportation.
The public can learn about the New Jersey Trails Plan, last revised
in 1996, and participate in updating the plan by sharing their perspectives
at the following open houses:
- Tuesday, Sept. 12, 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Canale Training
Center in Egg Harbor Township
- Tuesday, Sept. 19, 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum
in Morristown
- Tuesday, Sept. 26, 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ellarslie Museum
in Trenton
The updated New Jersey Trails Plan will address key issues related
to trails development and the State Trails System, establish a vision
for New Jersey's trails, and recommend strategies for maintaining
a comprehensive trails program that offers new and current trail
users an adequate supply and variety of recreational opportunities.
In October, workshops will be offered for trail advocates, developers,
managers and policy-makers to share their ideas and experiences
with New Jersey trails.
Trail users also can complete an online survey, available at www.njtrailsplan.org,
which aims to gauge public opinion on trail use patterns, issues,
deficiencies and priorities.
Visit www.njtrailsplan.org
for dates, times and locations.
Funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the update is a joint
effort between DEP and DOT, and is being facilitated by The RBA
Group of Morristown. A Trails Plan Advisory Committee has convened
to guide the planning process with representatives from state, county
and local government, as well as non-profit recreation and conservation
organizations.
For more information on the New Jersey trails planning process
and opportunities for public participation, visit the Web site or
contact Annette Schultz at The RBA Group at (973) 898-0300.
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