Harrisonburg looks to make streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The City of Harrisonburg is looking at ways to make its streets safer for everyone who uses them, as local leaders discuss efforts to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians throughout the Friendly City.

On Monday night, city staff presented to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee about the Safe Streets Harrisonburg effort, which focuses on updating the city’s Bike and Pedestrian Plan that was last updated in 2016.

“We presented to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee about our Safe Streets Harrisonburg effort,” Public works planning manager Jakob Zumfelde said. “Focusing on the bike and ped plan that we are updating — was last updated ten years ago.”

During the meeting, the committee addressed safety concerns raised by the public that could be improved in the future.

“We know what will continue to come up is safety of people walking and biking with drivers, with vehicles,” Zumfelde said. “Maybe the vehicles are going quite fast for someone to feel safe walking or biking next to the vehicle, or maybe the driver is distracted.”

Committee members discussed not only concerns, but also possible improvements and suggestions for residents.

“We’re definitely looking into new opportunities for bike lanes or for paths,” Zumfelde said. “Connecting filling some of the gaps between sidewalks or between bike lanes.”

Officials said future meetings will be held for anyone who would like to get involved, and to stay tuned for public updates.