Policies aimed at increasing the number of trees and improving alternative modes of transportation are at the forefront of proposed changes to the city’s comprehensive plan. Donna Stenger, a planner in the city’s Community and Economic Development Department, gave an update to Tacoma City Council during its May 25 study session.
The city’s guiding policies for planning developments and land-use priorities, the comprehensive plan is meant to properly plan for future growth. Two primary adjustments, the urban forest policy and mobility master plan, have been in discussion for months with community groups and council committees.
The mobility plan aims to create a safe, comfortable and desirable environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. It would upgrade existing pedestrian and bike trails, install some new ones and make them connect and flow better. Special turn lanes and tracks dedicated to bicycles are included.
The ultimate goal is 123 miles of bicycle lanes and boulevards, 42 miles of trails and installing sidewalks on 146 blocks. The cost in 2010 dollars to complete this work in the next decade is estimated at $38.5 million.
Councilmember Ryan Mello noted a recent meeting he had with representatives of Safe Streets regarding safe routes for children to use in walking to school. In some parts of town kids walk in the streets for lack of sidewalks, he noted. “There is more to this than just getting people out of their cars,” he noted.
The urban forest policy addresses issues related to trees in the city, which are “subjected to stresses you will not find in more natural areas,” Stenger said.
This includes vegetation in parks, open spaces, along streets, trails, creeks and on private property.
One goal is to have 30 percent tree canopy cover by 2030. In 2001 this figure was 12.9 percent.
This policy is meant to work in conjunction with the open space habitat and recreation plan adopted by the council in 2008.
A proposed policy on electric vehicle infrastructure would respond to a state requirement that cities along Interstate 5 accommodate such cars with recharging stations or battery exchange stations. A model ordinance that a number of cities could implement is being worked on.
Several people testified on the changes during the council’s meeting that evening.
Diane Evans from Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department said the mobility plan could combat obesity. “Safe opportunities to walk and bicycle will encourage physical activity.”
Andrew Austin from Transportation Choices Coalition said it offered “bold steps” for improving safety for bicyclists. “We must make our streets as safe as possible.”
Chris Gilliand of Cascade Land Conservancy expressed concern there will not be adequate funding to implement the forest policy.
“Without resources, a plan is just a plan,” Gilliand said.
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