The City of Bismarck is set to launch a short-term, low-cost, and rapid action active transportation demonstration project at the intersection of Fifth Street and Main Avenue, Bismarck. The project will test potential street improvements designed to improve safety and enhance the community. The pilot project will begin July 10 and continue through August 10, and will consist of pedestrian-friendly curb extensions and high visibility crosswalks. “The purpose of the project is to bring more attention to the areas that are shared by both pedestrians and drivers,” said Gabe Schell, city engineer, noting red acrylic traffic paint will be used to improve crosswalk visibility.  

The demonstration project is part of a statewide active transportation effort led by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Funding is provided by the Department of Transportation to plan and design the projects. Go! Bismarck-Mandan, the North Dakota Department of Health, and the city of Bismarck provide funding for temporary materials such as traffic tape and paint. Similar short-term pilot projects will be implemented in communities across North Dakota to promote active transportation, active and vibrant communities, and safe streets that work for all people.

This project offers an opportunity to test street improvement design solutions using temporary, low-cost materials before investing in permanent solutions. Changes will be evaluated during the project in consideration of longer-term safety and beautification solutions.

Interested individuals can get involved in several ways. Residents and visitors are invited to come and try out the demonstration project. Users will have numerous opportunities to provide feedback throughout the demonstration period and are encouraged to utilize the project and provide input either at the project location or through the online survey: http://bit.ly/NDMoves. “The hope would be to receive feedback from both motorists driving through the system, as well as pedestrians using the system on foot, to determine if this is something that is viable for our community,” said Schell.

For more information visit www.bismarcknd.gov, www.facebook.com/bismarcknd.gov and www.twitter.com/BismarckNDGov.