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Home My Public Portal About2020-10-13 Bicycle-PedestrianPlanReport TOWN OF 1630 WATERTOWN Office of the Town Manager Administration Building _ - 149 Main Street Watertown,MA 02472 Phone:617-972-6465 www.watertown-ma.gov Michael J. Driscoll townmgr@watertown-ma.gov Town Manager To: Honorable Town Council From: Michael J. Driscoll, Town Manager Date: October 8, 2020 RE: Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Report I Attached please find email correspondence regarding the subject from Steven Magoon, Director of Community Development and Planning/Assistant Town Manager. I will bring this up under Communications from the Town Manager at the October 13, 2020 Town Council Meeting and respectfully request the matter be referred to Committee for policy consideration and guidance by the Honorable Town Council. cc: Department Heads Community Development&Planning Matthew Shuman, Town Engineer, Department of Public Works Kevin Duffy,Project Engineer, Department of Public Works Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee I i I l a I Hand, JoAnna From: Driscoll, Michael Sent: Thursday, October 8, 2020 12:11 PM To: Hand,JoAnna Subject: FW: Bike-Ped Plan final draft Attachments: Watertown BikePed Plan-Final-Draft 10-2020.pdf From: Magoon,Steven Sent:Thursday, October 08, 2020 10:19 AM To:Sideris, Mark<msideris@watertown-ma.gov>; Driscoll, Michael <mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov> Cc: Hand,JoAnna <jhand@watertown-ma.gov>; Osmond, Marsha <mosmond@watertown-ma.gov>; Pronovost, Marilyn <m pro novost@watertown-ma.gov>; Wiener, Laura <Iwiener@watertown-ma.gov> Subject: FW: Bike-Ped Plan final draft Please see the attached Draft Plan and below request for a referral to committee of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. This will allow for a presentation of the plan and public discussion. Let me know if there are any questions. Thanks From: Wiener, Laura Sent:Thursday, October 08, 2020 10:01 AM To: Magoon, Steven <smagoon@watertown-ma.gov> Subject: Bike-Ped Plan final draft The Bike-Ped Plan is in final draft form, and ready for presentation to the public for their comments. I would like to request that it go to Town Council for referral to the Economic Development and Planning and Public Works Committees. The consultant will attend that meeting and give a presentation to Council members and the public on draft recommendations of the plan. The draft Bike-Ped Plan will be posted on the DCDP webpage this week. Laura Wiener, AICP Senior Transportation Planner Watertown Community Development and Planning 149 Main Street Watertown, MA 02472 (617) 972-6417 * 12183 1 ' y a d ,i'J. C i � rat •' � -� .i � _.r-� ' �-(� �.T'�-Q� � .�, � .`l��,• - � +mac � '` .' w� =Y t"-'- F+: fAwl- - --_- 71 :7 rOM( .. E Watertown BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN PLAN REPORT Table of Contents 1. Overview..............................................................................................................................1-1 2. Walking&Biking in Watertown Today.................................................................................2-1 2.1 Travel Trends...........................................................................................................................2-1 2.2 Existing Networks....................................................................................................................2-5 2.3 Safety....................................................................................................................................2-12 2.4 Current Projects....................................................................................................................2-13 2.5 Complete Streets ..................................................................................................................2-16 3. Public Engagement...............................................................................................................3-1 3.1 Committee Meetings ..............................................................................................................3-1 3.2 Public Meetings.......................................................................................................................3-2 3.3 Community Survey..................................................................................................................3-5 4. Issues&Opportunities to Shape Community Vision &Goals..................................................4-1 4.1 Issues &Opportunities............................................................................................................4-1 4.2 Design Toolbox........................................................................................................................4-8 4.3 Vision Statement...................................................................................................................4-17 4.4 Goals .....................................................................................................................................4-17 5. Recommendations................................................................................................................5-1 5.1 Infrastructure Recommendations...........................................................................................5-2 5.2 Policy, Program, Maintenance, Funding, and Enforcement Recommendations....................5-2 6. Action Plan...........................................................................................................................6-1 List of Tables Table 1: Watertown Resident and Worker Origins and Destinations........................................................2-2 Table 2: Sidewalk Condition of Town Accepted Roads..............................................................................2-7 Table 3: Existing Bicycle Facilities in Watertown.......................................................................................2-8 Table 4: Locations Generating the Highest Number of Comments...........................................................3-3 Table 5: Goals and Measures of Effectiveness for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan ...............................4-18 I I List of Figures Figure 1: Mobility in Watertown................................................................................................................2-2 Figure2: Lime Bike Data Trends ................................................................................................................2-3 Figure 3: Dimensional Requirements for Different User Types.................................................................2-4 Figure4: Existing Conditions......................................................................................................................2-6 Figure 5: Existing sidewalk conditions in Watertown................................................................................2-7 Figure6: Bicycle Level of Stress.................................................................................................................2-9 Figure 7: Existing Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress.......................................................................................2-11 Figure 8: Corridor Crashes Involving Bicyclists and Pedestrians..............................................................2-13 Figure 9: Bicycle and Pedestrian Crash Data............................................................................................2-13 Figure 10: On-going Projects in Watertown ............................................................................................2-15 Figure 11: Complete Streets Prioritization Plan (2018) ...........................................................................2-17 Figure 12:Toolbox for the Complete Streets Plan...................................................................................2-18 Figure 13: Information Summary from Boards and Comment Cards........................................................3-3 Figure 14: Public Priorities for the Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan Vision.........................................................3-4 Figure 15: Summary of Key Words Developed by the Steering Committee and Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee .............................................................................................4-2 Figure 16: Pedestrian Issues and Opportunities Identified by Steering Committee and Bicycle& Pedestrian Committee .............................................................................................4-3 Figure 17: Bicycle Issues and Opportunities Identified by Steering Committee and Bicycle& Pedestrian Committee .............................................................................................4-4 Figure 18:Sidewalk Improvements Prioritization......................................................................................4-6 Figure 19:Vehicle Speed Related to Crash Severity................................................................................4-16 Figure 20: Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Recommendations .....................................................5-11 List of Appendices A: BLTS Analysis B: Engagement B-1: Public Feedback Summary B-2: Public Meeting#1 Boards B-3: Community Survey Results C: Existing Policies D: Micromobility iii bow 1 . Overview The Town of Watertown encourages active Development of the Plan was carried out by a transportation—walking, biking, micromobility, Steering Committee consisting of Town staff and transit—to help reduce congestion, and from the Department of Community improve both air quality and public health.The Development and Planning and the Department Watertown Bicycle& Pedestrian Plan was of Public Works;the town-appointed Bicycle initiated to help achieve those goals by and Pedestrian Committee; and consulting identifying and prioritizing future improvements assistance by McMahon Associates and Cogent. to the Town's streets, walkways, and shared- The Plan was created in conjunction with a use paths, making it easier for people of all ages series of public meetings, an online survey, and and abilities to choose more active forms of engagement with local community groups. The transportation.The Plan provides a framework Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan planning process for implementing new and improved bicycle served as a continuation of the Town's and pedestrian connections in Watertown and Complete Streets Prioritization Plan, completed to the region's larger active transportation in 2018.1 The Complete Streets process network to help people get where they want to generated 150 ideas related to improving go easily,safely, and car-free. multimodal safety, and an initial toolbox of treatment options for bicycle and pedestrian The Plan is divided into five sections: infrastructure.The Plan expands on the 1. Overview identification of specific physical needs and 2. Walking& Biking in Watertown Today recommendations from the Complete Streets 3. Public Engagement planning process to develop a comprehensive 4. Community Vision and Goals and connected bicycle and pedestrian network. 5. Recommendations 1 htto://www.watertowndDw.orR/190/Watertown-Complete-Streets 1-1 Watertown Chapter 1 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Overview The recommendations for the Plan, detailed in Chapter 5, provide a path forward, not only for infrastructure improvements, but policy changes, programs, enforcement mechanisms, and maintenance procedures. All of these elements combined are essential to improving walking and biking conditions in Watertown, and continue to be able to improve them and meet the present and future needs of the Watertown community. THE BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN PROCESS: Understand the Town's existing networks and past and on-going projects Identify and prioritize new and improved bicycle and pedestrian connections in Watertown and to the region's larger active transportation network Develop measurable goals for encouraging active transportation for all people 4 Inform decision-making associated with implementing oI ltdbr pedestrian l ies, �Am� programs, and improvements 1-2 2 . Walking & Biking VM WwA in Watertown • • 2.1 Travel Trends Management (TDM) program,the Town's goal is to reduce single occupant vehicle mode share The current travel trends in Watertown help by 20%, which results in a goal of approximately inform not only the use of existing walking and 50%for residents and 60%for workers.3 biking routes, but the potential to increase walking and biking trips. Mobility town-wide Insight on the potential to increase walking and and to neighboring towns is influenced by biking trips is provided by examining travel Watertown's roadway network,which trends related to where Watertown residents facilitates travel by foot, bike, car, and bus. work and where Watertown workers live, Currently, driving is the most common form of shown in Table 1. With almost 20%of transportation in Watertown,with Watertown residents also working in approximately 65% of residents driving alone to Watertown,there is the potential to shift some work.This is a lower drive alone rate than that of these shorter, local trips to walking and found in neighboring Belmont,Waltham, and biking with creation of a better connected Newton.z Overall, approximately one in four active transportation network.With fewer commuters driving,this can reduce congestion Watertown residents choose an environmentally sustainable mode (public and improve both air quality and public health, transit, carpool,walk,or bike)to get to work, as fulfilling the Town's goals for the plan and seen in Figure 1; however, rates of walking and benefiting the community at-large. biking to work remain average when compared to rates in surrounding communities. According to Watertown's Transportation Demand z Metropolitan Area Planning Council(MAPQ Community Profiles,2012-2016 ACS 5-year estimates https://datacommon.mapc.org/#community-profiles 3 https://www.watertown-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/28504/TDM-Regulations_final-10-25-19 2-1 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE E PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today Mobility in Watertown How could these trends shift with improved bicycle and pedestrian networks? Out of every 100 residents... ftflff fiTft 65 drive alone to work f fi f ff f11'1 it **RfTf***fff 17 take public transit 'R$1PH'RYR f f 7 Carpool TTffi"fft f*0 HOW 5 Work from Home 1HPOMO 3 Walk One in four Watertown residents chooses an environmentally Bike sustainable mode to get to work 1 other 1013-1017Amerima Cammuairy5anryk meyto Wak Da(a Figure 1: Mobility in Watertown Table 1:Watertown Resident and Worker Origins and Destinations residentsPercentage of Watertown Percentage of Watertown • work in... workerswho Almost1% of Boston 27% Watertown 18% Watertown j Watertown 19% Boston 16% Workers Cambridge 11% Waltham 8% jLive in Waltham 6% Newton 4% Watertown Newton 5% Cambridge 4% Additional information on biking trends and One of the major findings from the Lime data is behavior has been provided through data that 70%of Lime bike trips that started in analyzed by the Metropolitan Area Planning Watertown ended in Watertown, illustrating a Council (MAPC) and the regional dockless bike demand for short term trips via bike, and the share program provided through Lime to local importance of identifying gaps in the local municipalities. In 2018, Watertown opted to be network. When looking at the most used one of 15 communities in the MAPC region to corridors by Lime bike users,the Charles River participate in a regional system.The Lime bike Bike Path had the most usage; however, Main share system was discontinued by the company, Street, Mt. Auburn Street, and Arsenal Street but the Town joined the Boston area's were also among the most used corridors, Bluebikes bike share program. suggesting that on-road facilities are needed to meet demand for more direct routes.These and additional findings are summarized in Figure 2. 2-2 • rn -a v�i � ° vi 0 • • '= vi '� ~ O • a. • ra aJ n °O O • �j Q C U �-+ (6 Q • U N U v1 C � cc 3 . . , L • ' O U L i ,� • L O � _U 3 • f6 C O C i N qA • * O N O v� � 3 0 • v a � �, � U ,,,� y • O � �- L u m � p t. • • � u .� en � L s o +� ja E CU d U L O U U L • C .� U ° f6 ° L INO O N O O m CL CD aj • Q C •• Y ° Y Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today Under a separate effort the Town engaged It is also important to understand who we are MAPC,who collected pedestrian and bicycle planning for: a community with people of all count data at 17 locations in Watertown from ages, differing physical abilities, and various approximately May to November 2019.This travel needs,whether one is looking to travel data illustrates that in addition to the corridors alone on the most direct, quick route as that showed high usage from Lime bike users, possible, or travel leisurely with family Coolidge Hill Road and Walnut Street are also members in a calm environment. All of these key links in the Watertown bike network, user types have differing dimensional reaching over 350 and almost 300 riders per requirements, as seen in Figure 3,which all day, respectively, several days per week.'While need to be taken into account when planning the MAPC data shows bicycle volumes on and designing pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Coolidge Hill Road,the topography is challenging. The Watertown Greenway may provide a more comfortable opportunity as the network is developed. Who We Are Planning For i r 47 t6] P 0 nM..fhR+.ownn irw•wa 4e_+ro vua J J e.m Mry wfn fsnra WtnvNm J vrrwn�rro V� � ' nJ`.faf Prgwan 60' 6V fiLVyw faV wr 10" SP N tµaae++dr�Nfa-wr Mt�rJlRa Ub Vwa u.r'Sr.rei.Idr Im.n Hr.WVMarMCYs Oecr GiY.o(IIrD Figure 3: Dimensional Requirements for Different User Types 4 MAPC mid-term,long-term,and manual short term bicycle and pedestrian count data,2019 2-4 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today 2.2 Existing Networks The Town of Watertown's Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for managing the Town's infrastructure assets, including the roads and intersections used for bicycling and walking.The Highway Division is responsible for maintenance and repair of roadway and sidewalk,while traffic control is the jurisdiction of the Police Department. As a densely populated community of just over four square miles,Watertown's compact size and street network provide an excellent framework for bicycling and walking. Approximately 70 of the 72 miles of Town- accepted roads have a sidewalk on at least one side of the street.' Figure 4 illustrates the current condition of sidewalks in Watertown, using a ranking system from poor to good.The rankings are based on visual assessments during Pavement Management inspections. Sidewalks are classified as "Good" condition if a continuous bituminous or cement concrete surface is provided and are visibly free of significant cracking or trip hazards, although sidewalks classified as "Good" may not meet ADA standards for width and cross slope. "Fair" is defined as meaning that 50% or less of sidewalk panels need to be replaced to create a "good" condition. "Poor" is defined as meaning that over 50% need to be replaced to create a "good" condition. s Pavement Management Plan,GIS data from town based on 2015 inspections and updated to assume streets paved through 2019. 2-5 N T CO s�•o ao ) M N 1-4 so- I i T — dig �oR•fC yp'. �dj C E 88 . �,�_�fj s € 9 R 4 9...,• 3 5 f .7 I F �k C <_ q x til— LLJ � L fr� e IS N — L' O L O ,• m m c °' E rn G •^ o 3m W m u m c v — c I 3 9 •b� C C N in 8 " o.m c •I° m m �,° o J J B� •X coy o u'S o N z a o�o f w42 w I I �°� � rc,ry•• / 5 LL is Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today Table 2 summarizes the condition of the centers like Watertown Square and walk to sidewalk network in Watertown.The condition their destinations.6 Supporting pedestrian of sidewalks varies throughout town,though infrastructure promotes a park and walk most major corridors have sidewalks in fair to environment,which contributes to a walking good condition, while it is more likely that local culture. neighborhood sidewalks are in poorer Table 2:Sidewalk Condition of Town Accepted condition.Among issues with sidewalks are cracking, and uneven surfaces, as seen in Figure Roads' 5. Due to the close proximity of different land Sidewalk • • uses such as housing,schools, and commercialCondition* Accepted Roads centers,walking is a viable option throughout i most of Watertown, as long as sidewalks are Poor 13% made accessible for people of all ages and Fair 38% abilities. Good 50% Additionally, participants of the community *When condition varied on either side of the survey conducted as part of the Watertown roadway, the lower condition was used Parking Management Plan (2019) expressed a preference to park off-street in commercial -4 i 9� Figure 5: Existing sidewalk conditions in Watertown. The left shows a poor sidewalk condition characterized by lack of curb separation from the roadway, cracking, and uneven pavement,while the right shows a good sidewalk condition with a wide,even surface and curb. 6 https://www.watertown-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/27911/Parking-Management-Plan-Executive-Summary-and- Strategies 'Pavement Management Plan,GIS data from town(2017) 2-7 (9) Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today It is evident that the majority of existing bicycle facilities through town provide access in an east-west direction, as seen in Table 3 while north-south bicycle facilities are notably absent. Table 3: Existing Bicycle Facilities in Watertown Location Facility Type Direction Main Street(Waltham line to Bicycle Lanes East to West Bacon Street Dr. Paul Dudley White Bike Path (Charles River Path) Bike Path East to West Watertown Community Path Shared Path East to West North Beacon Street Bicycle Lanes East to West Arsenal Street Two-way Separated East to West Bicycle Lane Common Street from Mount Auburn Street to Bicycle Lanes Northbound Only Orchard Street Watertown-Cambridge Greenway Shared Path Southwest to Northeast Waltham Street(Waltham line to Edward Road) Bicycle Lanes Westbound Only !Oe'_ JA "wy Two-way separated bicycle lane on Arsenal Street. Charles River Path in Watertown. - I 2-8 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today A measure called the "Bicycle Level of Traffic volumes,or the presence of on-street Stress"'(BLTS)was used to evaluate the parking and transit frequency. existing bicycle network in terms of the amount a Vehicle speed:The speed of vehicles of stress someone would experience when traveling adjacent to bicycle facilities is a biking on a roadway segment.A Level 1 direct contributor to the level of stress a indicates a low level of stress, suitable for a bicyclist will feel. Speeds of less than 30 small child or inexperienced bicyclist,while a mph increase bicycle comfort, while Level 5 indicates a high level of stress, only speeds above 35 miles per hour,create suitable for the most experienced bicyclist, and greater stress. potentially uncomfortable for any bicyclist, as . Vehicle volumes:The number of vehicles shown in Figure 6. Indicators used to measure traveling on a corridor contributes to stress for the analysis in this Plan include: congestion and greater chances for • Bicycle facilities:A facility separated from conflict between vehicles and bicyclists. traffic,such as an off-road path or bike Roadways with fewer than 2,000 vehicles lane at the sidewalk level separated from on average per day, or average daily the roadway by a curb,would result in a traffic (ADT), creates a less stressful Level 1. Other buffered and on-road environment, while over 10,000 ADT bicycle lanes would result in a Level 2 or 3 creates a high stress environment. depending on vehicle speeds,vehicle BICYCLE LEVEL OF STRESS Low Stress High Stress CRITERIA * Separated bike lane * Buffered bike lane * Bike lane with * Shared lane with Shared lane with parking and/or frequent bus route multi-lane vehicular * Shared lane with * Bike lane with no infrequent bus route traffic or speed>35 speed<30 mph parking and no bus * Shared lane with mph or with ADT> and with ADT route * Shared lane with speed between 15,000 <2,000 speed between 30 30 mph and 35 * Shared lane with and 35 mph or with mph or with ADT speed<30 mph and ADT between 4,000 between 10,000 with ADT between and 10,000 and 15,000 2,000 and 4,000 Figure 6: Bicycle Level of Stress a Originally developed by researchers at the Mineta Transportation Institute,and advanced by Peter Furth,Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering,Northeastern University College of Engineering 2-9 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today • On-street parking: On-street parking can Low stress networks facilitating north-south create conflict points with bicyclists in travel are lacking, and only provide short shared lanes and in bicycle lanes. segments of bicycle facilities if any are provided Bicyclists are at risk of being hit by a car such as Stanley Avenue from Pleasant Street to pulling out of a parking space, and also at Waltham Street, and Arsenal Street on the risk of being"doored" by a driver or Charles River from Watertown Community passenger opening their car door into the Path/Arsenal Street to North Beacon Street. bicycle lane.An on-street bicycle lane Safe north-south connections are desired by the adjacent to a parking lane results in a Level 3 moderate stress environment. community. However, major north-south routes in town such as Grove Street,Arlington Street, • Transit service:As larger vehicles, buses School Street,Waverley Avenue, and Lexington traveling on a corridor create a higher Street are between Level 3 and 5 for Bicycle level of stress for bicyclists.Additionally, Level of Traffic Stress.This relatively high level buses pulling into and out of curbside bus of stress illustrates the need for improved stops create conflicts with bicyclists north-south bicycle connections to complete a traveling in a bicycle lane, as the bus is network that is safe and accessible for all users. likely to have to cross the bicycle lane to Further information on the level of traffic stress access the curb. Corridors with infrequent classifications and analysis can be found in bus service result in a Level 3 moderate Appendix A. stress environment,while frequent bus service results in a more stressful Level 4 or 5 environment. Figure 7 summarizes the existing BLTS stress on Watertown roadways today. A sampling of data for each roadway class was used to determine a level of traffic stress by class.The level was further refined based on field and desktop review to provide a more contextual level of traffic stress.The full methodology and data sources are provided in Appendix A. The presence of off-street paths and low- volume, low-speed roadways leads to many low-stress segments throughout town. At the same time,there are several major routes that currently have stressful bicycling environments, including Mount Auburn Street, Galen Street, Arsenal Street east of the Cambridge- Watertown Greenway, Grove Street, Main Street east of Bacon Street,Orchard Street, and Belmont Street. Bicycle improvements are currently planned for the Level 4 and 5 sections of Mount Auburn Street and Main Street, as described in Section 2.5. 2-10 N T f0 v 0 O U � - w ` t gaa (D c) �— L� co cn co W . LU W J -oe 9"fn � 1IM � �• P i .W.1 -� ! 14 e W - S 7�fFf slat, U N N N W 0 Arms .9 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today 2.3 Safety Additional crash data for Watertown was generated from the MassDOT Crash Data portal, Data on bicycle and pedestrian crashes provides which is comprised of reported crashes insight into priority locations for improvements involving bicyclists and pedestrians for the years to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Existing 2016-2019. Each reported crash in this period, research on safety related to encouraging as well as the crash clusters identified above, is multimodal travel identifies perceived safety as depicted in Figure 8. In this time period,there a significant factor in the likelihood of the were a total of 60 reported crashes between general public using new facilities.9 10 11 This vehicles and pedestrians and 37 reported makes it important to not only consider safety crashes between vehicles and bicyclists.The in terms of vehicular crashes, but to consider corridors with the most crashes involving how roadway elements influence feelings of bicyclists and pedestrians is show in Figure 9.A perceived safety for walkers and bicyclists. review of crash data reveals the following The Massachusetts Department of trends: Transportation (MassDOT) Highway Safety • From 2016-2019,three crashes involving Improvement Program (HSIP) identifies crash pedestrians resulted in fatalities, each of clusters to signify priority areas for safety which occurred along Watertown Street, improvements. An HSIP crash cluster occurs demonstrating a need for safety when the total number of"equivalent property improvements along this corridor. damage only" (EPDO)12 crashes are within the top 5%of each regional planning agency • The majority of crashes involving district. From 2007-2016 two pedestrian crash pedestrians on Arsenal Street and Main clusters were identified in Watertown, at Street were with pedestrians crossing at Watertown Square and at Coolidge Square, and marked crossings, suggesting a potential one bicycle crash cluster, on Main Street from need for additional pedestrian safety Chestnut Street to Galen Street.The presence measures. of these crash clusters identifies them as • Crashes involving bicyclists on Arlington priorities for implementing facilities that Street were with a parked vehicle and provide enhanced levels of safety elements for with a bus and a right turning vehicle at walkers and bicyclists,such as separation from the intersection of Mt.Auburn Street, traffic, enhanced visibility, improved lighting, or illustrating the importance of integrating different types of traffic signalization. bicycle facilities with parking lanes and bus stops. 9 Dill,J.,T.Goddard,C. Monsere,and N.McNeil.2014."Can Protected Bike Lanes Help Close the Gender Gap in Cvcling?, Lessons from Five Cities."Urban Studies and Planning Faculty Publications and Presentations 123. 11 Sanders,Rebecca L.,and Belinda Judelman."Perceived Safetv and Separated Bike Lanes in the Midwest:Results from a, Roadwav Design Survev in Michigan."Transportation Research Record 2672,no.36(December 2018):1-11. doi:10.1177/0361198118758395. 11 Cho,Gihyoug;Rodriguez,Daniel A.;Khattakb;Asad J."The role of the built environment in explaining relationships between perceived and actual pedestrian and bicvclist safetv."2009.Accident Analysis&Prevention,Volume 41,Issue 4, July 2009, Pages 692-702. 12 EPDO based on calculated crash costs from a Federal Highway Administration(FHWA)study for 2014-2016 crash clusters. For prior clusters,EPDO was weighted using a factor of ten for a fatal crash,five for an injury crash,and one for non-fatal and non-injury crashes.Source:https://safetv.fhwa.dot.gov/hsip/docs/fhwasal7071.pdf 2-12 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking 8t Biking in Watertown Today 83% of pedestrian crashes resulted 897o of bicycle crashes. resulted in injury and 5% in a fatality in injury Fatal Property Injury Non-fatal Damage Only Injury / Property f Damage 12% Only Non-fatal All pedestrian fatalities occurred on Injury Watertown Street MunA Tumh Jimratu4/nmJsJumM1ef 3016-2019 Figure 9: Bicycle and Pedestrian Crash Data As seen in Figure 8, 83%of pedestrian crashes narrower right-of-ways,on-street parking, and with a vehicle resulted in injuries and 5%were curb extensions, amongst other tools. fatal,while 89%of bicycle crashes with a vehicle resulted in injury. While no number of crashes 2.4 Current Projects is an acceptable number, it is important to view „ It is important that the Bicycle and Pedestrian safety holistically. As explained in the Vision Plan address current roadway improvement Zero" section of Chapter 4,vehicle speed is projects, and also fit into the holistic framework directly related to crash severity. Reducing of planning in Watertown. Figure 10 vehicle speeds not only contributes to creating the perception of safety, but reduces the summarizes planned projects at the time of the plans formation. As Figure 10 shows, several chances of a severe injury if a crash should planned projects will address existing gaps in occur.This also shows that safety is not just the bicycle and pedestrian networks: about putting in a sidewalk or a bicycle lane, but supplementing these facilities with traffic • The Watertown Community Path will be calming measures such as raised crossings, extended from Pleasant Street to Main Street,then connect along Linear Park Arsenal Street to Saltonstall Park behind the Administration Building and Library to Watertown Street the separated bicycle facility on Arsenal Main Street Street, providing a route through the Mt.Auburn Street center of town connecting existing Arlington Street , facilities on the east and west sides of Pleasant Street Watertown, including the Watertown- 1 pedestrian crash �=1 fatal Injury �=t bicycle crash Cambridge Greenway and the Charles River Path. Figure 8:Corridor Crashes Involving Bicyclists and Pedestrians 2-13 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today • The reconstruction of Mount Auburn lanes,shoulders,or sharrows where Street will provide curb extensions, feasible.This program can help fund traffic signal improvements, and bicycle important links in bicycle and lanes from Patten Street to Belmont pedestrian networks as roads are slated Street at the Cambridge line.This will for reconstruction as part of existing provide an important connection town services. through northeastern Watertown on a Additional existing projects will address street with a high number of reported intersection improvements that will provide bicycle and pedestrian crashes, making better connections between links in the it a priority for safety improvements. network: • The extension of the Watertown- Cambridge Greenway will provide an • As part of the Complete Streets off-road connection into Cambridge to Prioritization Plan,three projects were Fresh Pond and beyond.This will be an funded for construction in 2020 that important north-south connection,for will improve pedestrian crossings: a commuting and recreation and to raised crosswalk on Warren Street at promote healthy options for people of the Cuniff School, a raised shared path all abilities as it will be separated from crosswalk on Whites Avenue at Linear traffic. Park and extension of the path through • The reconstruction of Main Street from Saltonstall Park using the existing Waverley Avenue to Thaxter Street will sidewalk route, and crosswalk provide bicycle lanes, curb extensions, improvements on Watertown Street at and traffic signal improvements,which Theurer Park,the location of a will improve walking and biking pedestrian crash in 2017. conditions from western Watertown • Improved accessibility and safety into the center of town where people improvements will be added to the would be able to connect to the intersection of Galen Street at Watertown Community Path. Watertown Street and Nonantum Road, • A bicycle facility in the southbound which was identified as a high crash direction on Arlington Street, between location by MassDOT(2016-2019). Grove Street and Arsenal Street, is From 2016-2019,three out of the seven planned. It will consist of bicycle lanes, reported crashes with pedestrians on sharrows, and buffered bicycle lanes. Watertown Street resulted in fatalities. • As part of future reconstruction of • Watertown Square is being evaluated Arsenal Street, a bicycle lane in the for multimodal improvements to eastbound direction will be provided address safety and circulation for all from School Street to Greenough modes. Watertown Square provides an Boulevard. important connection to existing and planned bicycle facilities on both sides • The Town's annual road program of town and to regional links into includes the reconstruction of Newton and Boston, as well as to the sidewalks, implementation of ADA- Charles River Path. compliant curb ramps, as well as bicycle 2-14 N T 3i €eke � , �l,\ �' SiE a 4 € b -a EY � wl� E e , s sE l h 5 g� tit 22s gr p8pE HD `s, sti p� IJJ s/ ""h.. ..i' •NSF 8 CD pi � HEn MH t E u o 1. ,5 m�o8� EtY 3 & z i-y5o sa s€= c` E —_ a 3 t oO v n a a s i rg. t E O 00 Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today 2.5 Complete Streets in the selection of 24 projects to submit to MassDOT for funding.The three projects The Town's Complete Streets Policy and selected for funding during the 2017/18 Prioritization Plan sets an important framework planning process are highlighted in Figure 11 for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. The and discussed in section 2.4. Watertown Complete Streets Policy was adopted in 2017 and a Prioritization Plan,which selected 24 priority projects for funding,was completed in 2018. Through the public outreach conducted as part of the Complete Streets process,which included two public forums, interviews and meetings, and an online survey, 150 ideas for improving multimodal safety were generated. These ideas were narrowed to 33 draft projects based on input from Town Officials and consolidating overlapping ideas.The draft ideas were scored based on evaluation criteria developed by the Department of Public Worl<s (DPW) and Community Planning and Development Department. Projects were prioritized that improved both bicycle and pedestrian improvements and connectivity,which resulted EXISTING PLANS ism 4 � t�lrk PvlYr I1•e(.t NIrM,>f n.._ ,,......,• .�._.�.. sf • WN Parking Management Plan PATHWAY USER COUNTS y�., Watertown Comprehensive Plan o �. in r•- Wilk Assessment WATERTOWN COMPLETE STREETS OPRICIRITIZATION PLAN w,t.no.n nsa 2-16 d a F 77SS C 6 3 sluawanmdwl6ulssaJ Q� eEe �v 8 �x gFi r C F �E i s ` { ' slooyJS olssa»yue{tlsapad ales cu 9 cc e f R � sluawanaldwl ap�yropNroJ F 6gg P Y F 7 7 § Y yiwdx(-P-45 co6uweJ { 1 I J 91a+1 � g000000l � �l � � l � Cm©9m ca c21 ♦ E z aP � ♦ �s sy S I LL ♦♦ azi E I �Frtmm�SA ♦�� 8 c"�'�sN I I � �u P♦uV`FJ � d J ^I waarw ' 5 r>t�L+n.a q Pa E ' "u,Pe O �' 6 4✓+e3t�PZW St ic -'AdY` �Sa. ol8ealcr°°E fa'r fY ,aa'� / Flrcia Pd is QD a ahnsy� 4p oa^ y F V ♦ N Posa. suOwuo roN�O a$ €F \ e'�s,go-`1' 1 L : f' � I O♦ br y ` u_1/�«�` P� rya �" 1�� P♦ °W 3 ♦ • ' � �Pt C♦hq�N U �Q� sc e a¢ 9 yby� 4 Kaboa9 '1'ti�J W Jm♦NnsG f �L o k�WoHM'P O 2F ap l Irl v 1 a,,, ;♦ � < y 'r k!zay unY,c�y eh'Wb �� ♦ EDYIhnpJ �'= U f YmivYi Cd aey A_ I a. _ k "ar f key f : kyiJJb hFt y ., gg , e O 5�. ��':♦ k+yv {�'''� r tau s c .�F4 e-♦ � L�l '4 .� c ai°" �' f♦ 'J �q` by m Ir ky z �� , � � rfA'Suora kaa,p � V 'N • r ♦ +sn;u gg +� � ..,� 'sa'xr,,,.� kpy� �g, Ss:s�,�E •`o_ o � a g —_ 1�1• `s w CL a\ U ©o©aoo ; L ; ® - ---- — x no Watertown Chapter 2 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Walking & Biking in Watertown Today The Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan builds off of the pedestrian and bicycle facilities were developed ideas and recommended projects identified as part of a "toolbox'for the Complete Streets through the Complete Streets Plan, and serves Plan, as seen in Figure 12.These facilities also to fill in the remaining gaps in the bicycle and play an important role in the Bicycle and pedestrian networks to improve access, Pedestrian Plan.A toolbox that serves as an mobility, and safety for all user types.The plan extension and supplement to the Complete does this by identifying missing links in the Streets Toolbox is provided in Chapter 4 of this networks, exploring a range of treatments to Plan. enhance the comfort and safety of facilities, and developing an implementation plan. Several Raised Crosswalk Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon(RRFB) curb Extension/ADA Corn Ilant Curb Ramps x t L i Shared Use Pat i Traditional Bike Lane Separated Bike Lane ,o Figure 12:Toolbox for the Complete Streets Plan 2-18 Public Engagement Collecting a wide range of public input was 3.1 Committee Meetings integral to the development of the Bicycle and To provide a starting point for the public Pedestrian Plan. As stated previously,the effort engagement process,the Steering Committee was not conducted from a blank slate, but with and Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee were the acknowledgement of past planning efforts, engaged in several activities to understand their public feedback, and identification of missing concerns, priorities, and goals for walking and links in the multimodal network. Several tools biking in Watertown, now and in the future. Key were used for collecting additional public words derived from an activity asked feedback to develop the plan and focus on the committee members to comment on what they needs and priorities of those who live,work, see as the biggest opportunities, challenges, and play in Watertown: and what a successful plan means are helped • Five meetings with a Steering Committee informed the overall vision for the plan. of Town staff from Community Similarly,the committees were engaged in Development and Planning, and mapping exercises to start to document issues Department of Public Works and a rep and opportunities related to walking and biking from the Bike Ped Committee in Watertown. Map layers included existing • Four meetings with the town's Bicycle facilities, planned facilities, and the prioritized Complete Streets Projects to provide a more and Pedestrian Committee complete picture of where network gaps may • One public meeting; and public review of be impeding access through town. From these this final plan activities,several key issues and opportunities • Online community survey for each mode arose, and were presented for • Project website community input through a public meeting and community survey summarized in the following • Outreach to community groups sections. 3-1 Watertown Chapter 3 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Public Engagement 3.2 Public Meetings The first public meeting for the Watertown v Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan was held one I -- Monday,January 27, 2020.The purpose of the 1,;' - • meeting was to provide a project overview,to share information on existing conditions for walking and biking, and to collect feedback on priorities for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.The meeting also led to an understanding of the public's priorities for addressing trends emerging from the planning process and for the overall vision for the plan. The meeting was attended by 62 members of I j, the general public as well as Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and Steering Committee \ members. A complete summary of the public meeting is provided in Appendix B. A combination of a presentation and interactive stations was used to present educational information and collect feedback. Public Your Feedback "°`otc ""° tr..,..,,., feedback was collected in several ways: Use sticky note to tel us whotfeedtackfrom prior efforts is most lmportort to lnrorporoh, I • Interactive boards used to collect input wadd css in the&'cydc and Prdmtrian Pfnu. on specific topics,such as priority locations for bicycle and pedestrian LEN ON improvements, and input on identified � ■ emerging trends and developing a vision ■ ■ for the plan. • Comment cards to collect additional ■ station-specific feedback as well as . NNE ■ general input. ■ ■ • The community survey available on ■ ■ electronic tablets. ■ ■ ■ i ■ ■ ■ ■ � f d 3-2 Watertown Chapter 3 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Public Engagement J Watk uwayi �� ay PedestrianBuftoon om'• "' w. gears . / c.,�,n," ,,.f, PedestrianRefugeisland 1nze�secttons "Mkd f� Pic�int,ain Plantings Re alr Curbs j_ < 'I Continuous p �� Trees �f Continuous r Traffle«r4 , ,��, Infrastructure c@� aa.. Laws 4 - Roads ,4 Puhlic eus Trafficlights Streets B.,n m� g T � Structural o Q e"Runnin y,� .� " U u,� �.cnQa.o.mwa lk•Visibility • r --FPjxpq.�_,.c$ nMy i.. v. � (�iV;'1 Q a"yw Er Wider s Enhance r Narrow ,(°#✓ � y�VR./'J�..r.i�/�f �ti'17 RoodDiel `s Space Im�7rav4ompw.snwrs '_, g• ��yEnforcement - + -- o:;fiR:;;LeadingPedestrianlntervaU - Figure 13: Information Summary from Boards and Comment Cards A summary of all of the information Table 4: Locations Generating the Highest Number of collected from the boards and Comments comment cards is summarized as a "word cloud" in Figure 13,with the PRIORITY L• • more repeated words appearing Pedestrian • Ills larger.13 As seen in the image to the Watertown Square Watertown Square right, safety is a top concern among • AAAAAAAAAA meeting participants. As part of one of the interactive stations, participants Main Street from Forest Street were asked to identify their top two to Watertown Square Mount Auburn Street priority locations for pedestrian and a f\ f� f� a A(AAA bicycle improvements with sticky dots on a map. The locations that Connection between generated the largest number of dots Mount Auburn Street Summer Street and are listed in Table 4.As seen in the ,T-k,T-k-k Arsenal Street table, Watertown Square generated f� f` f� f` f` �L (AA the largest number of dots for both pedestrians and bicyclists. Pleasant Street between Bacon Walnut Street connection Street and Myrtle Street/access to Greenway and Other similar themes across both to Charles River Path Community Path modes include conditions on Mount Auburn Street and improving connections between the roadway Arlington Street at Nichols Arsenal Street at network and off-street paths including Ave./Greenway entrance Greenough Boulevard the Community Path, Cambridge- Watertown Greenway, and Charles River Path. Participants were also -k= 1 comment = 1 comment 13 Similar words with different endings were grouped together,and the words"pedestrian"and bicycle"were omitted. 3-3 Watertown Chapter 3 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Public Engagement asked to rate the importance of specific key the identified vision elements and emerging words and phrases,selected to summarize trends.The trends that generated the most emerging trends identified in meetings with the agreement on their importance were safety and Steering Committee and Bicycle and Pedestrian culture change, and expanding transportation Committee.These ideas were then presented in choice.The ideas that generated the most the form of draft vision statements for the plan, agreement for their inclusion in the vision were where participants could rank how important safety, along with providing an interconnected they considered these elements to be for network, inclusive facilities, and dedicated inclusion in the plan's vision. Figure 14 funding. illustrates the emerging trends and vision elements that were rated most important, symbolized by circle size.14 Overall,there was general agreement in the importance of all of Importanceinthe Bicycle&PedestrianEmerging P amends 5 Jppo�a b(cycle and pegeStriah ryetWo!is.F.f.an,accessible �fh atie d r .�. . ,,ps.ti.ty-Create a safer.. oL A climate change environment or n work for everyone multimodal goals f own �c Lq L mpl. Is Inclusive of I L t people of all ages �o 0 Transportation Expand choices for and personnel I Supports walking and biking L 71vibrant public 1 spaces t'l towards a more muffi- "' culture Is Interconnected within fawn and to neighboring communities Regional Connections: Improve gateway corridors to neighboring •ail'+�::nvt communities 1=t�laFh�ri�nJlll � Figure 14: Public Priorities for the Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan Vision 14 Results were tallied by"very important","neutral",and"not important".A neutral or not important vote was subtracted from the"very important"total to generate one number per category. 3-4 (a) Watertown Chapter 3 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Public Engagement 3.3 Community Survey • If conditions improved for walking and biking, people are most interested in A community survey was released from January taking trips for recreation/fun and 10, 2020 to February 10, 2020.The survey was exercise,followed by trips for personal publicized on the public meeting flyer, available errands. to fill out at the public meeting, and distributed . Improving walking and biking through the Town's and the Bicycle and connections to recreational areas,off- Pedestrian Committee's existing networks.A road paths, and schools are the highest community survey is an important element of priorities. public engagement, as not everyone has the The top rated pedestrian enhancements ability to attend public meetings to express • their opinions. The survey generated a total of to improve conditions are better street 821 responses, 574 of which were complete lighting, Rectangular Rapid Flashing responses.A full set of survey questions and Beacons (RRFBs), and pedestrian refuge islands. responses is available in Appendix B.The following summary is based on the 574 • The top rated bicycle facilities to complete responses, as this provides a more improve conditions are shared use complete understanding of priorities. paths,grade separated bicycle lanes, and buffered bicycle lanes. The majority of survey respondents (92%)were • The top three things respondents would Watertown residents. Nearly half of respondents (46%)were between 30 and 49 like the town to do to encourage walking and biking are to improve years of age, over a quarter(27%)were maintenance of streets and sidewalks, between 50 and 64,while one-fifth (21%)were to improve snow removal from from 65 to 79 years old. Fewer than 5%of respondents were adults under the age of 30. sidewalks and paths, and to construct Among those who opted to answer the more/safer on-street bike lanes. question about gender identity, respondents skewed female,with 329 women completing the survey and 231 men. Overall,the survey revealed strong interest in improving conditions for both biking and walking,with several key points highlighted below. A complete summary of the community survey results, along with individual question and results is provided in Appendix B. • Having important destinations close by is what people like most about walking and biking. • Motorist behavior and poor maintenance of sidewalks and streets were reported as the biggest barriers to walking and biking. 3-5 issues i Opportunities • Shape Communitybow -,a • Goals With a complete picture in hand of the state of 4.1 Issues & Opportunities current bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and the routes that are most desired by the The process of identifying issues and community, issues and opportunities were opportunities for walking and biking in identified to create a larger framework that Watertown was initiated by understanding the integrates Town initiatives with an overall vision strengths and challenges presented by the Plan, for the future. Evaluation of missing links in the and what a successful Plan looks like. Key words from exercises with the Steering Committee system, necessary repairs of existing facilities, and Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee asking and potential improvements to the overall these questions were reiterated and captured network help establish a mobility foundation for in Figure 15. Both committees also participated future growth and change,while celebrating in mapping exercises (see Appendix B)to and respecting the Town's unique physically locate where issues and opportunities neighborhoods, history,diversity, and treasured exist in Watertown to improve infrastructure to assets. encourage a safe,well connected system for bicycling and walking. 4-1 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals 5 Watertown Key Words OICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN When the Steering Committee and Bicycle&Pedestrian Committee were asked about challenges,opportunities,and what a successful bicycle and pedestrian plan looks like,the following key words emerged.Bold words were heard multiple times. What is the greatest opportunity presented with this project? Improve safety Focus on all people Enhance vibrancy Increase mode shift/mode choice Increase local/neighborhood connectivity(resident trips) Incorporate private development Change culture/educate population i Remove physical impediments to walking/biking What is the biggest challenge this project will face? Predominant car culture •� Dedicated funding Post-construction maintenance(snow) E-scooters/emerging modes Needs of specific populations(aging,blind and low vision) Pace of change and development Public Support Creating a vision Ongoing project coordination(i.e.,Watertown Square) I I What does a successful plan look like to you? } Now...and 10 years from now? ' Shifting mode choices—especially for short trips ` Changing culture Ofo Development of a strategic and measurable plan Safe,connected network Short&longterm improvements i Enhance vibrancy Nbrc M—Ing Jarway 2/.2M Figure 15: Summary of Key Words Developed by the Steering Committee and Bicycle& Pedestrian Committee 4-2 � N Q ca a C7 ca if ca fn p ` •.. Y N o E tt e f1OL _ tie 4.1 t . � ty =, � ;; %� ••� toe f � v \\ a '� • � s v { 9 h W f � E c \• i \ E •_ a lw « C v c o Y7 ram- ,FNq F P y a u E E In In � N L m •z \ � O crn m a 4 # ® O L c 1 m d 3 W 6F , n a Cl " CL xfr 3' E sw,w W \ 1` F o Y LU Ai \� €• �' s if E r Eco 21 3 o d rl fj � Ob Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Based on the input from the committees and Curb use Trade-offs the public process, combined with the analysis While the infrastructure improvements for the of existing conditions, current plans and bicycle and pedestrian network can be projects, and best practices for bicycle and pedestrian planning, a series of formative issues identified, a community must have broader goals and policies in mind when designing and and opportunities were identified to form the basis for the recommendations of this plan. implementing these facilities. For example, School Street,Walnut Street, Orchard Street These formative issues can be divided into two broad categories of enhanced physical have been identified as locations that would benefit from bicycle facilities. However,these improvements to the bicycle and pedestrian network, and broader policies that inform when streets may not be wide enough to and how enhancements are made. Each are accommodate a dedicated bicycle facility described below. without removal of parking. Consideration of curb uses, adjacent land uses, speed of vehicular travel, crash history, and other factors must be included in the assessment of the appropriate bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Physical Improvements This includes bicycle and pedestrian connections both within Connectivity - • Watertown and connectivity to the surrounding region. Improved North-South Travel connections to existing off-road paths, recreational areas, schools, senior facilities, and commercial areas were identified as needs.The desire to complete "missing links" between these key nodes through both public and potentially private efforts was also prevalent.The lack of safe, comfortable connections to walk and bike in a north-south direction was noted throughout the process. The current sidewalk conditions assessment combined with the location of key activity areas is provided in Figure 18. Poor sidewalks in these locations should be designated as the ones with the highest priority for improvement.The map illustrates there are walkable destinations throughout town, particularly in an east-west direction through the geographic center. However, many of the circles in the eastern half of town, along Mt.Auburn Street and surrounding Coolidge Square, have sidewalks in good and fair condition. Sidewalks within circles to the northwest of Watertown Square as well as those surrounding the Perkins School for the blind have a higher number of poorly rated sidewalks.This provides insight into prioritizing improvements on the poor sidewalks that provide access to these destinations. 4-5 N N a C0 s U o �N m H 1 OO CO CL t-A ,/iW s 1 0 DO I ' ♦� %ko o 1 1 pit } w 01. 9 1 � u y 0 f�pe E A � Ob ll. Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Improving the visibility and communication between pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers at intersections through design interventions. Prioritizing pedestrian safety in locations such as Watertown Square (currently part of a separate planning and design effort), Coolidge Square, and along Watertown Street were particularly mentioned. It will be essential to work with the Watertown Square Project to integrate bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Prioritizing protected bicycle infrastructure on corridors reporting relatively high numbers of crashes involving bicyclists, including Main Street,Arlington Street, Mt.Auburn Street and Pleasant Street will be important for improving the interactions between these modes and reducing the number of crashes. Infrastructure improvements to the bicycle and pedestrian network Bicycle and need to be considered in the context of broader community goals and Pedestrian Facility policies.As mentioned previously, bicycle facilities were found to be Types desirable on School Street,Walnut Street, and Orchard Street, but they may require the removal of parking.The community must balance the needs of each mode based on the local context. Likewise,walkability factors include more than just the presence and condition of sidewalks. Landscaping buffers between pedestrians and vehicles; pedestrian amenities such as benches; and pedestrian scale lighting contribute to safety and comfort. Consideration of curb uses, adjacent land uses, speed of vehicular travel, crash history, and other factors must be included in the assessment of the appropriate bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.The feasibility of implementing various facility types are also related to the level of the investment in a street from quick-build demonstration projects, resurfacing of a street,to full reconstruction of a roadway.The Toolbox sections of Chapter 5 Recommendations provides some guidance. A promising indicator for shifting more trips to walking and biking in Watertown is spotlighted by a finding in the community survey:what the majority of respondents like most about both walking and biking in Watertown is that they can reach important destinations.This demonstrates the potential that policies, maintenance,enforcement, and programs can have for incentivizing more trips to be taken by walking and biking, especially where basic infrastructure is already in place. Enforcement of vehicular traffic rules in particular was viewed as a top concern. Respondents reported not feeling safe walking and biking due to motorist behavior such as running red lights. Snow clearance was also a major concern among survey respondents and public meeting attendees. Policies for snow removal in residential areas in addition to public areas illustrates how a combination of tactics can be used to reach . desired goal. 4-7 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals 4.2 Design Toolbox Bikeway Types There is not a one-size fits all solution to 46 providing a connected and safe network for walkers and bicyclists. A network is made up a diversity of environments such as low volume, low speed neighborhood streets, busy commercial thoroughfares, off-street SEPARATION FROM TRAFFIC recreational areas,former industrial areas undergoing redevelopment, and the intersections that connect these areas. Having a range of implementable tools, and understanding where and how to use them, is the first step in implementing a Bicycle and Source:The MassDOT Bicycle Pedestrian Plan. Transportation Plan The following facilities have been identified as feasible options that can be implemented in Shared Use Path or Separated Bike Lane Watertown to improve walking and biking conditions, many of which are already found throughout town.The toolboxes identify infrastructure that supports prioritized space, Building high-comfoil visibility, and dedicated crossing times for Bike Lane networks takes time and pedestrians and bicyclists, all leading to (Buffer requires design flexibility. increased safety, and therefore better feasible to design for all connectivity for these users. Places where these ages and abilities in the when implementing tools are used in Watertown, as well as typical c nventional or buffered or locations for use are provided.These are meant atke bike lanes as part of routine to supplement the Complete Streets toolbox 6ouievard developed for Watertown,shown in Chapter 2, Figure 12. Each location has its own needs and challenges and each sample tool may not be appropriate for every situation. Capital costs for The MassDOT Bicycle Transportation implementation as well as cost and ease of Plan/Municipal Resource Guide provides maintenance must also be considered. guidance on page 28 on how motor vehicular speed and volumes influences bicycle comfort. For example, streets that are wide, and serve a high number of vehicles at higher speeds may tools suggested in this section reflect a planning benefit from separated bicycle lanes and level analysis for potential applicability in sidewalks with buffers such as a planting strip. Watertown,the final selection and design of Conventional bicycle lanes may be appropriate each will require detailed site analysis and on streets with moderate volumes and lower supplemental community engagement. speeds. Neighborhood streets tend to have the lowest volume of vehicles with reduced speeds where a bicycle can safely travel in a lane shared with vehicles. While the solutions and 4-8 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PFDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals MassDOT's 2019 Statewide Bicycle Transportation Planes, 2019 Statewide Pedestrian Transportation Plan 16, and associated Municipal Resource Guides for each provide resources and tools for the selection process of design applications. NACTO's Urban Street Design Guide17 provides tactics and guidelines to make streets safer through complete streets principles. NACTO's Designing for All Ages&Abilities18 provides guidance for selecting bicycle facilities based on the roadway context.The BLTS analysis for Watertown in Figure 7 on page 2-11 provides a framework for decision making on how to apply these treatments to increase the comfort of bicycle facilities. Pedestrian Facilities Toolbox Pedestrian facilities enhance the everyday walking experience for people of all ages and abilities. Every trip includes walking at some point of the journey. For the purposes of this Plan, "pedestrian" is used inclusively of people of all ages and abilities, including those using assisted devices.Typically, pedestrian facilities can positively impact the average person's walking experience in a few different ways:they can make walking on sidewalks a safer, more pleasant, convenient, and attractive experience; they can improve safety by improving the visibility of pedestrians; and they can also encourage people to stay and enjoy the public environment,which can increase the overall vibrancy of a particular neighborhood or commercial area.This Plan is predicated on the fact that pedestrian facilities will be accessible to all in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 11 https://www.mass.gov/service-details/bicvcle-plan 16 https://www.mass.gov/service-details/pedestrian-plan 17 https://nacto.org/publication/urban-street-design-guide/ 18 https://nacto.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/NACTO Design i ng-for-All-Ages-Abilities.pdf 4-9 a Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE E;PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Description: Detectable warning panels are applied at curb ramps to provide a tactile cue where pedestrians will cross into another zone,such as the street or a bicycle lane. - — Example: Main Street in front of the Watertown Public Library. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street, Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Recreation, Near Schools Pedestrian • - Island r Description: Pedestrian refuge islands reduce the distance a pedestrian must cross at one time, reducing exposure time in the intersection.They are ideal for locations with high speeds and traffic volumes,and where there are three or more lanes of traffic. Buffered areas on both sides of the island should be considered. Example: North Beacon Street at Watertown Square. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector Description: An audible pedestrian signal communicates information about the crossing,such as - "walk"and "don't walk"at signalized intersections. Push buttons are located low enough to be accessible for persons with mobility challenges and incorporate vibrotactile surfaces for visually impaired pedestrians. Example: Intersection of Arsenal Street and Irving Street. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street, Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Recreation, Near Schools Description: RRFBs use an irregular flash pattern to alert motorists to a crossing pedestrian at marked, uncontrolled crossings,typically where there are high pedestrian volumes. They can be activated by a push button or through a pedestrian detection system. Example: Main Street in between Watertown Town Hall and Watertown Public Library. Places to Use: '- Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Near Schools 4-10 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Description: Street lighting at a crosswalk increases the comfort and safety for pedestrians traveling at night. Lighting can be placed on both sides of the street at and approaching pedestrian crosswalks to improve pedestrian visibility to drivers. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street,Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector • Description: Sidewalks provide a paved surface,typically vertically separated from vehicular traffic by curb,exclusively for pedestrians to walk adjacent to streets.Sidewalks should be a minimum of 5 feet wide, excluding the width of the curb, per ADA guidelines.Sidewalks in urban areas are typically constructed with cement concrete and vertical granite curb,although bituminous concrete may be desirable as a lower cost alternative for neighborhood streets with lower volumes of pedestrian activity. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street, Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Recreation, Near Schools, Description: Decorative treatments can be used in crosswalks to improve crosswalk visibility, promote traffic calming,and to enhance the vibrancy of public spaces.Treatments may include brick or other patterned surfaces. Example: Decorative crosswalks are used at the intersection of Waverley Avenue _- �vuv and Orchard Street. aLIYYYY•, Places to Use: Neighborhood Street,Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Recreation, Near Schools Ore Description: 5. A leading pedestrian interval(LPI)gives pedestrians a head start when entering an intersection with a corresponding green signal for traffic traveling in the same direction.This increases the visibility of pedestrians in a crosswalk to turning vehicles. �i fs„ Example: Not currently in use in Watertown Places to Use: Neighborhood Street,Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector, Recreation, Near Schools when there is not a high volume of turning vehicles compared to the number of pedestrians crossing 4-11 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Bicycle Facilities Toolbox Bicycle facilities are the building blocks for creating healthier, more sustainable alternatives for transportation networks where people rely heavily on automobiles for daily trips. Currently only 2%of Watertown residents bike to work on a regular basis, although almost 20%work within Watertown. The length of a trip in distance and travel time also influences bicycle use. Bicycle facilities can improve convenience and safety to encourage people to shift shorter, local trips to a more sustainable mode.The primary considerations in creating a bicycle network for all ages and abilities is one that is connected, safe, and comfortable.There are a wide variety of bicycle facilities which offer different levels of comfort, and safety for people who wish to ride their bicycles. It is important to think of the types of people who would ideally be using a facility when selecting elements to include in a local bicycle network. Description: Buffered bicycle lanes resemble traditional bicycle lanes with painted markings,but contain a painted buffer separating the bicycle lane from adjacent moving vehicular traffic.A double buffer provides protection from both moving vehicles and parked cars. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street,Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector • Description: Bicycle signals can be used at signalized intersections to provide distinct phases for bicyclists.They can improve the safety and visibility of bicyclists by providing a i green signal ahead of vehicular traffic. � M Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector Description: Separated bicycle facilities are physically separated from vehicular traffic.They can facilitate bicycle connections along roadways where on-road facilities may be too stressful for users.They may be further protected from traffic with a parking lane or planting strip. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector 4-12 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Description: Contra-flow bicycle lanes can be installed on a one-way street to allow bicyclists two-way access.This can help prioritize the most direct route possible for bicyclists by providing direct connections in neighborhoods where one-way streets are prevalent. `l. Places to Use: Neighborhood Street,Commercial Corridor Description: A two-way bicycle lane allows bicyclists to move in both directions along a roadway.They can be used on streets where contra-flow bicycle travel is desired or where one side of the street provides a more direct connection to another bicycle facility. Buffers or separation should be used to reduce the level of stress experienced by cyclists. A two-way separated bicycle lane is provided on Arsenal Street. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector Description: A two stage turn bicycle box provides a dedicated space and visible way for bicycles to make a turn across traffic,such as turn left from a right-side bicycle lane. Bicyclists are able to make this turn without having to merge into traffic lanes. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector Description: Bicycle boxes are designated areas at the front of a traffic lane at a signalized intersection that provide bicyclists with a dedicated waiting space and visible way to get ahead of vehicles when a traffic signal turns from red to green. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector Description: A protected intersection provides physically separated crossings and designated waiting areas for bicyclists at each intersection approach, using a combination of tools.This increases the level of comfort for bicyclists by increasing visibility and sightlines to turning vehicles and reducing the time and distances bicyclists are exposed to conflict. Places to Use: Commercial Corridor, Regional Connector 4-13 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Policies and Procedures Zoning and Development The Arsenal Overlay Development District The Town of Watertown has been proactive Pleasant Street Corridor District(PSCD), in planning for the future through efforts ' Regional • -• Use District(RMUD) such as its Complete Streets Plan, Parking incorporatebestpractice • ensuring Management Plan, Design Guidelines, and pedestrian and bicycle connections Comprehensive Plan.As a result, changes to prioritized • " development process, zoning and regulations have been including, but • '• to: for implemented overtime that support reduced/shared vehicular parking, publicly multimodal transportation and site design accessible bicycle and pedestrian paths that facilitate walking and biking provide direct connectionsto existing•increased density, • commuter bicycle facilities such as secure bicycle parking, • • lockers . The Watertown Zoning Ordinance currently includes standards for pedestrian and bicycle connectivity in multiple zoning districts and overlays, as well as through requirements for site plan review and parking provisions. Town-wide the Ordinance establishes standards for bicycle parking relative to the number of automobile parking spaces provided.An example of an enhanced connection achieved through the Ordinance is the path provided between the Riverbend on the Charles Apartments and the Charles River Path,which also includes bike parking.The Town should continue to apply developer incentives as found in Sections 5.12, 5.16, and 5.18 of the Ordinance wherever possible to promote north-south connectivity that could be facilitated from the Pleasant Street and Arsenal Street corridors.Applying these incentives also helps implement pedestrian connectivity between residential neighborhoods and commercial destinations, as well as between key development areas and the surrounding street network and recreational areas with off-road paths such as the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway, and Charles River Path (see Appendix C for information on requirements in each zone). Sidewalk . Implementation As noted in Section 2.2, Existing Networks,the Town's DPW While the tools available oversees roadway related Capital Projects and Planning and through - Ordinance ' maintains a Pavement Management database to track streets in Development '" lines need of upgrades and maintenance. Proper maintenance helps already exist in Watertown, protect the investment of public funds in infrastructure, participants in the Bicycle an• including bicycle and pedestrian facilities.The Town of Pedestrian Plan process may Watertown's Complete Streets Plan is a potential opportunity to not •- aware of prioritize new construction, maintenance and reconstruction of an opportunity . highlight and streets that contribute to the bicycle and pedestrian network.A promote the c regular review of the routine Pavement Management plan is an achievedare through opportunity to utilize an existing program to identify instances public-private partnerships. where bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure may be implemented as part of routine maintenance. 4-14 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals The "connectivity" issue noted in the infrastructure section is supported in the Town's existing curb and sidewalk ordinance that supports creation of new sidewalks. However, DPW reports that the ordinance requires new sidewalks be concrete,which can be costly and labor intensive to construct. In addition,there are some locations in Watertown that have bituminous (asphalt) sidewalks,which provides a safe,vertical separation between pedestrians and vehicles. The general interpretation of the ordinance is that repair of bituminous sidewalks should include reconstruction in concrete when the sidewalk to be repaired is longer than one property frontage.This may unintentionally create a gap when a bituminous sidewalk is in poor condition but cost considerations prevent it from being replaced with concrete. As a result, repair of bituminous sidewalks is not completed at the same frequency as repair of concrete sidewalks. Some flexibility in interpretation of the ordinance to allow for short-term repairs could assist in enhancing connectivity until a roadway is scheduled for full reconstruction with concrete sidewalks. Further complicating the implementation of new sidewalks is that there is no dedicated funding mechanism to allow for new sidewalks, other than as part of a capital intensive full roadway reconstruction project. Snow and Vegetati ninti-nance Routine maintenance in terms of snow clearance and tree trimming for bicycle and pedestrian areas are concerns when considering a bicycle and pedestrian network.The Town's DPW oversees snow removal according to the Town's Snow and Ice Removal Program. Publishing a snow clearance schedule to inform residents of which routes receive prioritized snow clearance can help aid in communication.The Town currently has a snow and ice removal ordinances for sidewalks in commercial areas. Communities that have adopted snow clearance policies which cover residential areas include Newton, Cambridge, and Somerville, Belmont and Arlington (see Appendix C for more information).The City of Cambridge developed guidelines for maintenance of separated bicycle lanes specifically.19 MassDOT's May 2019 resource guides Municipal Resource Guide for Bikeability20 and Municipal Resource Guide for Walkability21 provide additional guidance on maintenance and repair and snow and ice clearance. Concerns and Programs In addition to the goal of physical safety improvements to support bicycling and walking, vehicular speeding was noted as a safety concern.The legal definition of speeding is set in Massachusetts General Law (MGL), and posted speed limit signs must comply with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)guidance. When no speed limited is posted,the maximum allowed speed is the "prima facie" speed.Watertown's prima facie speed is 30 miles per hour. MGL provides cities and towns the ability to set a speed limit of 25 miles per hour in accordance with MassDOT Procedures for Speed Zoning and in "thickly settled' or business districts if the community chooses to do S0.12 However, regardless of the legal speed, people may feel vehicles are"speeding" due to the character and condition of a roadway.Vehicular speeds are related to driver behavior influenced by the physical aspects of a street and its surroundings. Speeds tend to be faster on wide,flat,straight streets. Roadside elements such as on-street parking,street trees, and buildings close to the street can also contribute to lower vehicular speeds by decreasing driver comfort. Slower speeds occur when streets are narrower both physically and visually. Encouraging lower vehicular speeds is best achieved through street design, rather than relying on signs and enforcement.The addition of 19 https://www.cambridRema.gov/news/—/media/AOA305C766F94E5EA860038A81471227.ashx 20 httos://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2019/06/13/2019 Municipal Resource Guide for Bikeabilitv.pdf 21 https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2019/06/13/2019 Municipal Resources Guide-Walkabilitv 0.0f. 22 https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/07/30/Speed Limit and Advisory Signs.pdf 4-15 i Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals dedicated bicycle lanes and sidewalks can help physically and visually "narrow" a street to encourage lower speeds. Vision Zero HIT BY A VEHICLE HIT BYAVEHICLE HIT BYAVEHICLE TRAVELING AT: TRAVELING AT: TRAVELING AT: In order to raise awareness of safety in specific neighborhoods and promote a culture of 20 30 40 reduced vehicular speeds,some communities MPH MPH MPH have developed a "Vision Zero" Plan. Vision Zero" acknowledges that many factors } SauINIOpL.urW�vrw. sexd tOPrdewiw+aniw Oary t.w NlGpdeuruasswm contribute to safe mobility--including roadway design, speeds, behaviors,technology,and Image source:Seattle Department of Transportation policies--and sets clear goals to achieve the Figure 19:Vehicle Speed Related to Crash Severity shared goal of zero fatalities and severe injuries." 23 As Figure 19 shows,safety is directly of roads or intersections by an independent, related vehicle speed,which impacts crash multidisciplinary team and is required for 25% severity. Designating Vision Zero areas within design plans at HSIP eligible locations.An HSIP Watertown may help achieve the shared goal of cluster is where the total number of"equivalent reducing vehicular speeds while providing safer property damage only" crashes are within the bicycling and walking networks in key areas top 5% in the region.24 Improvements on the such as near schools and the Main Street southside of Watertown Square will be funded corridor.These areas may also benefit from through HSIP, and Mt. Auburn Street additional consideration as to how to assess improvements were implemented following the trade-offs of how to utilize the curb-to-curb completion of an RSA to identify deficiencies. area of a particular street, considering the curbside uses of on-street parking, bus stops, Safe Routes to School and bicycle lanes. Watertown participates in the Safe Routes to MassDOT Highway Safety Improvement School program,which funds educational Program(HSIP) programs that promote a culture of walking and biking in younger generations, install bicycle MassDOT identified three bicycle and racks, and fund pedestrian and bicycle pedestrian crash clusters in Watertown from infrastructure and access surrounding schools. 2007-2016. Pedestrian crash clusters were Watertown schools that will be renovated in identified at Watertown Square and Coolidge the next five years, including the Hosmer, Square and a bicycle crash cluster was identified Lowell, and Cunniff elementary schools and on Main Street from Chestnut Street to Galen Watertown High School provide opportunities Street(see Figure 4 on page 2-6).The MassDOT to incorporate a culture of walking and biking. Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) There is an opportunity to more closely align funding can be used for the Road Safety Audit the Town's on-going Pavement Management (RSA) Program,which involves a safety review Plan and sidewalk improvement program with zs https://visionzeronetwork.org/about/what-is-vision-zero/ 24 https://www.mass.gov/service-details/highway-safety-improvement-program 4-16 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals the locations of schools, assisted/senior living 4.4 Goals facilities, and public parks, playgrounds and open spaces. In order to bring the plan's vision to reality,the following goals,shown in Table 5,were established for the Plan. A goal represents an 4.3 Vision Statement aspiration for where the community hopes to be in the future. Each goal has associated The formative issues and opportunities provide measures of effectiveness in order to provide the basis for a vision statement and goals to additional clarity of the goal's intention.These shape the recommendations in this Plan.The measures are metrics that can be used to Vision Statement for Bicycling and Walking was evaluate progress towards the achievement of a formulated as a result of the public engagement goal.This provides a way to measure the extent process and working with the Steering to which a goal is met as the plan's Committee and Bicycle and Pedestrian recommendations are implemented. Committee, explained in Chapter 3. Vision • • and Walking The Town of Watertown supports a bicycle and pedestrian network that is safe and accessible for all users, and expands transportation choice through a combination of inclusive, interconnected bicycle and pedestrian facilities, as well as policies and programs that promote a culture of walking and biking. The Town will strive to have dedicated funding for implementation and personnel for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, which will result in a more multimodal environment that supports vibrant public spaces, healthy lifestyles, M • the Town'sgoals forchange. 4-17 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Table 5:Goals and Measures of Effectiveness for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Bicycle & Pedestrian Measures of N� Plan •' Goal: Safety Develop a safe network for all user types • Bicycle level of traffic stress(BLTS)of 3 or less on major corridors How to Implement:Safety . Increase the number of ADA compliant crossings& Improvements pedestrian signals �� • Reduce the number of bicycle and pedestrian crashes • Increase Safe Routes to School participation and funding Goal: Connectivity Expand regional connectivity by improving gateway • Bike level of traffic stress reduced on regional routes corridors to neighboring communities • Number of improved connections to regional shared use paths How to Implement:Regional . Wayfinding signage on designated regional routes �� Connections,North-South Connections Develop a connected network,focused on resident • Number of improved connections to transit facilities, and worker mobility such as new sidewalks, bike lanes,curb cuts • Number of bike signals/protected intersections How to Implement:Regional . Reduce the number of network gaps in residential and Connections,Missing Links,North- commercial areas 7. South Connections Goal: Increase mode choice for walking and biking in . Increase in the percent of non-vehicular trips Watertown, especially for shorter, local trips . Increase the number of bike racks and other bicycle parking facilities How to Implement:Missing Links, • Number of completed Complete Streets Projects Safety Improvements,North-South Connections Change the car-oriented culture to a more . Decrease average car ownership per household multimodal culture • Decrease drive-alone mode share • Increase participation in the Watertown Transportation How to Implement:Activity Nodes, Management Association(TMA) =_ Site Connectivity . Number of recommendations implemented from the Parking Management Plan 4-18 Watertown Chapter 4 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Issues & Opportunities to Shape Community Vision & Goals Goal: • Enhance the town's vibrancy,both in public spaces • Track the number of parking spaces reduced through and through new development zoning regulations • Track the number of new site connections to public land How to Implement:Site Connectivity, created between new/re-development and surrounding ==— Activity Nodes street networks • Number of new streetscape elements in private developments(benches, parklets,public art,greenery) 4-19 ,wom bow 5 . Recommendations The recommendations in this Chapter serve as a recommendations also address related starting point.The Town of Watertown should infrastructure that contribute to comfort and monitor changing conditions to ensure the Plan safety such as wayfinding signage, intersection is responsive to new opportunities that may treatments, and bicycle racks.The character of arise (partnerships,funding, real estate the street and surrounding area will also development, demographic changes, etc.) and influence the design of a treatment. For shifting priorities of the community.The example, bicycle facilities in a predominately recommendations are designed to achieve the residential area serving local trips may be Plan's vision and goals, detailed in Chapter 4. implemented through minimal pavement The Action Plan to implement these markings and signage. Bicycle facilities along recommendations is provided in Chapter 6. major corridors such as Main Street where the goal is to reduce Bicycle Level of Traffic Stress An essential component of the Bicycle and and accommodate longer trips may benefit Pedestrian Plan is identification of Town from signage and aesthetic treatments that are priorities for infrastructure improvements that consistent with the downtown identity and together create a connected bicycle and potential branding of a regional bicycle pedestrian network. A connected network connection. facilitates public access to the places where people live,work, and play in a safe and The recommendations are grouped comfortable way,further enabling them to shift goals . - plan: these trips from cars to more sustainable 1. Safety modes. It takes a combination of infrastructure 2. Connectivity on public streets,within private developments, 3. Culture through recreational areas,and connections to transit to fully develop this network.The 4Vibrancy 5-1 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations 5.1 Infrastructure 5.2 Policy, Program, Maintenance, Recommendations Funding, and Enforcement Recommendations The infrastructure recommendations provided below are represented in the map in Figure 20. Promoting more trips by walking and biking will The map illustrates how, combined with require a combination of recommendations existing and planned facilities, each will that address not only the infrastructure on the contribute to bicycle and pedestrian networks streets, sidewalks, and paths, but behavioral that connect within town and to neighboring elements such as law enforcement and public communities.The numbers in the table below opinion regarding walking and biking. are not a ranking of priorities, but rather a label to correspond to the location on the map. While policies are generally implemented by the Town of Watertown, coordination within Town Several of the recommendations refer to the Departments is essential for successful need to improve the existing bicycle level of outcomes. Some of the policy, program and traffic stress (a measure of stress felt by enforcement recommendations will involve bicyclists due to vehicular traffic,speed, and collaboration and cooperation with non-Town other conflicts) in order to provide a entities such as adjacent municipalities, comfortable network.The existing bicycle level MassDOT, and DCR, as well as private of traffic stress for all roads in Watertown is organizations and other partners. shown in Chapter 2, Figure 7,where a further description of the levels is also provided. The policy recommendations were informed by Recommendations for the pedestrian network data on travel patterns, bicycle and pedestrian were informed through engagement and crash locations, existing policies, practices and activities with the Steering Committee, Bicycle projects, and community concerns. and Pedestrian Committee, and the community. Subcategories provide a framework for The recommendations are also meant to understanding how the recommendations fit incorporate elements of the design toolbox, into the Town's overall processes and priorities. detailed in Section 4.2,to implement infrastructure that accommodates people of all ages and abilities. 5-2 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations • . l: Safety Infrastructure Recommendations-Safety . • # Recommendation 14 Evaluate options to improve safety at Common Street north of Orchard Street,including measures to mitigate limited sight distances including advance warning signs,such as a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon(RRFB)at Common Street at Bellevue or Grenville Road;and additional traffic calming devices to reduce vehicle speeds.Sight distance requirements may be reduced with the proposed roundabout at Orchard Street that will slow traffic speeds. 8 Coordinate with MassDOT to complete the planned safety improvements for Watertown Street between California Street and the Town/City Line with Newton. Ensure the project prioritizes pedestrian safety measures identified in the Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. Reducing the vehicular travel lane width on Watertown Street should also be considered as a means to provide bicycle facilities and improve safety. 12 Implement intersection/signal design improvements at Summer Street at Church Street intersection to improve pedestrian safety.This has also been identified by the public as a school walking route and location where additional traffic enforcement may be needed. 5 Work with the Town of Belmont to improve crosswalks and bicycle conditions on Belmont Street, currently identified as a level of traffic stress 4. See Policy Recommendation for working with public schools to develop active transportation plans. 10 Improve safety and connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians on Galen Street,into Watertown Square.This will improve access to commercial destinations in Watertown Square,connect Watertown Yard to Watertown Square,both major bus hubs,and provide a link to Charles River Path. Galen Street currently provides no bicycle facilities,and has a high level of stress(5)due to traffic speeds,traffic volumes,and on-street parking. A separated bicycle facility is recommended for this corridor between Watertown Square and at least Morse Street. A low stress connection on the lower volume Morse Street provides connections to Watertown Street(see recommendation#8). Fifth Avenue provides a low volume,low stress network to facilitate a north-south connector on the southside of Watertown. Extension of a separated bicycle facility on Galen Street between Morse Street and the Town/City Line with Newton should be coordinated with the City of Newton to provide additional regional connectivity. 21 Work with DCR to improve bicycle access to Charles River Path from Grove Street at Greenough Boulevard,currently rated as a level of traffic stress 4 out of 5.Also see Policy Recommendations for working with DCR on maintenance,signage,and funding. 13 Evaluate feasibility of providing bicycle facilities on Orchard Street to reduce level of stress,currently a level 4,with consideration to existing residential parking and curb extensions.This may require the removal of on-street parking for on-street bike lanes and/or obtaining easements when properties are redeveloped to provide a separated facility. See Policy Recommendation for funding to integrate facilities into the Town's Capital Improvement Program. 3 Provide a bicycle facility for the entire length of Main Street to reduce bicycle level of traffic stress, which currently ranges from a level 3 to a level 5.A separated or protected bicycle lane is preferred. This may require the removal of on-street parking for on-street bike lanes or to provide a separated facility.Coordination with MassDOT for the segment of Main Street from Bacon Street west to the Town Line with Waltham is needed. 1 5-3 i Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations 17 Integrate the planned improved pedestrian and bicycle facilities on Mt Auburn Street and Cambridge- Watertown Greenway with the intersection improvements of Belmont Street and Mt Auburn Street in Cambridge. Review signals and turn lanes and evaluate potential to widen sidewalks and add curb extensions, at the intersections of Arlington Street, Nichols Avenue,Coolidge Hill Road,Crawford Street, and the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway. Work with City of Cambridge and 705 Mt.Auburn Street to implement access points to Greenway extension and implement wayfinding. Policy Recommendations-Safety ■ Recommendation Enforcement Work with the Police Department to promote safety for bicyclists and pedestrians. Request data on A enforcement. Develop a Vision Zero policy and action plan with the goal of eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries and increasing safety, health, and mobility for all. Target specific areas in Watertown where B strategies to meet this goal include encouraging lower speed limits,traffic calming, intersection safety improvements,and enforcement particularly in areas of high crash incidents as reported through the MassDOT Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). Maintenance -------------- Promote the availability of the Town's on-line work order request system for maintenance of bicycle and C pedestrian infrastructure. Consider expanding capability for an online community platform such as "SeeClickFix"to supplement the DPW webpage and promote broader awareness to the community. Programs Review and improve crash reporting to better identify factors contributing to serious and fatal bicycle and D pedestrian crashes. Information on pre-crash maneuvers and crash conditions can help Watertown identify countermeasures for specific types of crashes. Work with Watertown Police Department/Traffic Division and School Department Safe Routes to Scholls programs to promote biking and walking by students and staff. Promote awareness and educational programs, including education for drivers,to emphasize the importance of sharing the roadway,abiding by traffic laws,and rules of the road for bicyclists and pedestrians. E Safety programs can incorporate schools where they are tied to walk or bike to school days through the Safe Routes to School Program for elementary schools, or tied to incentives to walk or bike to school instead of driving for high school students. 5-4 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Conduct an ADA audit of key corridors in town,working with Council on Aging,Commission on Disabilities, Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, and the Perkins School for the Blind. Develop prioritization plan for F pedestrian improvements such as curbs and curb ramps,crosswalks, and accessible pedestrian signals, especially in relation to schools,senior facilities, and bus stops.Currently identified priority locations are shown in Infrastructure Recommendations#4 and#18 under Connectivity. Funding - G Address bicycle and pedestrian crash clusters25 by applying for MassDOT Highway Safety Improvement Program(HSIP)assistance to evaluate safety conditions at identified locations and fund improvements. Goal: Connectivity Infrastructure Recommendations-Connectivity Recommendation 1 Highlight and continue to prioritize pedestrian connectivity to commercial and recreational destinations,at key development areas in town, particularly along Pleasant Street to the west,and Arsenal Street to the east.Also see Policy Recommendations related to the Town's Zoning Ordinance. 18 Implement an accessible pedestrian route between Mt.Auburn Street and Watertown-Cambridge Greenway. Engineering study of the route shown on the map is required to determine feasibility.See Policy Recommendations for conducting an ADA audit of key corridors,funding to integrate facilities into the Town's Capital Improvement Program, and working with public schools to develop active transportation plans. 7 Improve physical access and wayfinding signage for links between Charles River Greenway and Howe Park;and on Bridge Street between Pleasant Street and California Street. Coordination with DCR and the City of Newton is necessary. 11 Implement the missing links of the Watertown Community Path: a. Arsenal Street to Mount Auburn Street via TaylorStreet b. Mount Auburn Street to Watertown Linear Park via parking lots c. Watertown Linear Park to Watertown Community Path segment on Howard Street 2 Provide alternative east-west bike route to the Charles River Path in western half of Watertown. Pleasant Street and Waltham Street as it feeds into Pleasant Street,are potential routes with a current bicycle level of traffic stress 3. Potential removal of on-street parking for on-street bike lanes and/or obtaining easements when properties are redeveloped to provide a separated facility would allow for bike lanes to reduce bicycle level of stress along this key corridor. 4 Improve pedestrian connections in west Watertown in order to create an accessible pedestrian route connecting local destinations(schools,senior/assisted living housing),to Main Street(bus connections)and Charles River Path.See Policy Recommendations for conducting an ADA audit of key corridors,funding to integrate facilities into the Town's Capital Improvement Program,and working with public schools to develop active transportation plans. zs An HSIP cluster is where the total number of"equivalent property damage only'crashes are within the top S%in the region.https://www.mass.gov/service-details/highway-safety-improvement-program 5-5 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations 16 Reduce level of bicycle stress on Walnut Street(currently Level 3),to provide connection between Mt Auburn Street and Arsenal Street,and Cambridge/Watertown Greenway.See Policy Recommendation for funding to integrate facilities into the Town's Capital Improvement Program. 6 Implement north-south connections in Watertown,building on planned sidewalk reconstruction and existing raised intersections,to improve access across Town between Belmont Street and Charles River Path, Main Street, Mount Auburn Street,and Arsenal Street. Priority locations include Waverley Avenue connecting Main Street to Belmont Street,Wilson Avenue/George Street connecting through Victory Field to Marion Road,to Church Street and Spring Street to Mount Auburn Street(which would require a contra-flow lane on Palfrey Street).Additional north-south connections include School Street,Templeton Parkway and Grove Street.See Policy Recommendations related to funding and maintenance for implementing new bicycle facilities, funding through the Town's Capital Improvement Program,and working with public schools to develop active transportation plans. Policy Recommendations-Connectivity Recommendation Maintenance A Integrate maintenance of on-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities into routine street maintenance. Identify opportunities where bicycle facilities may be implemented as part of routine maintenance. B Develop maintenance procedures,responsible party,and tracking for off-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities. C Provide routine snow clearance in key destinations working with residents and neighborhood groups, business groups,and the MBTA to D Coordinate with DCR on better maintenance of Charles River Path and associated connections.See Infrastructure Recommendations#7(Connectivity),19(Vibrancy),and 21(Safety). Programs Advocate to DCR to improve the condition of the Charles River Path and advocate for Little Greenough E improvements.This includes providing signage to minimize conflict between pedestrians and cyclists, integration with the Town's wayfinding program,and snow removal in winter months. Policy Develop guidelines for evaluating the trade-offs of implementing dedicated bicycle facilities on roadways with F constrained rights-of-way. Use the MassDOT and NACTO resources referenced in the Toolbox section as guides for best practices.Ongoing maintenance of bicycle lanes such as snow clearance,street sweeping,and other maintenance issues should be included. G Prioritize neighborhood sidewalk improvements that create continuous connections,and address the following: — Existing sidewalks that are currently ranked as"poor"or"fair"in Figure 18 — Located within a 0.25 mile of a public school,assisted/senior housing,or recreational areas and i commercial areas — Provide a connected network to other pedestrian facilities 5-6 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE G PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Goal: Culture Infrastructure Recommendations—Culture See policy recommendations below. Policy Recommendations-Culture Recommendation Enforcement Work with groups including the Watertown Transportation Management Association (TMA), MassBike,and A Watertown Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee to promote bicycling town-wide.Special events and programs may include working with employers or grocery stores to provide free breakfast to bike commuters during Bike Week or providing bike valet during Town-wide events." Evaluate and communicate progress on this Plan on an annual basis. Provide information on number and B severity of crashes involving bicycling or walking; linear feet of upgraded sidewalks and bike lanes;and town- wide active mode share.Create a Working Group to develop metrics to evaluate success. Programs Develop active transportation plans for Watertown schools to promote walking, biking,transit, and other forms of micro-mobility for school travels. Incorporate more bike racks at all schools,and continue to survey to understand travel behavior of students,employees,and parents and identify impediments to walking and biking.Work with the Watertown School District should seek to reinvigorate the Safe Routes to Schools C Program and promote"the six E's"of equity,education,encouragement, evaluation,enforcement and engineering. Priority corridors adjacent to schools are depicted in the Infrastructure Recommendations map,#4 (Connectivity),5(Safety),6(Connectivity),and 18(Connectivity). Work with employers to highlight and publicize successes of the Watertown Transportation Demand Management(TDM) Program in reducing vehicle trips and supporting walking and biking.Additionally,data D generated as part of TDM reporting can be used to understand which TDM measures can be correlated to the most mode shift to walking and biking and reduction in vehicular trips to inform future planning(see Appendix C for information). Work with community and neighborhood groups and other Town programs like Live Well Watertown to host shared events to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety and promote safe neighborhood streets for children. E These could take place in neighborhoods or on recreational space that connects to the Community Path or Watertown-Cambridge Greenway and may include free bike inspections by local bike shops, a skills course, safety workshop for children,and town-wide mapping routes. Work with Bluebike to identify new locations for Bluebike stations in compliance with siting requirements F Explore strategies for future Bluebike expansion,including business sponsorship and additional grants. Additional funding can help secure expansion into western Watertown along Pleasant Street to encourage east-west biking through town and to the Watertown Middle School so that the program is accessible to residents of northwest Watertown. 26 htttDs://www.massbike-OrR/bike valet 5-7 I Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations G Expand communication with the community when bicycle and pedestrian enhancements are achieved by highlighting in the local news,social media channels, and annual Town reports. Develop policy for new micromobility options in Watertown,such as a-bikes and e-scooters.The policy should address where and how micromobility devices can operate. It is recommended to prohibit them on sidewalks H to maintain safety for pedestrians and to cap speeds at 15 mph. If a shared micromobility service operates in Watertown in the future,it is recommended to require that the devices be parked on sidewalks in a way that preserve pedestrian accessibility(see Appendix D for more information). In keeping with recommendations from the 2019 Parking Management Plan for Watertown Square and Coolidge Square,reduce or eliminate parking requirements in commercial areas and allow developers to pay fees in lieu of parking and create a Parking Benefit District to fund commercial district improvements. I Through creation of a Parking Benefit District,parking revenue could be invested in multi-modal infrastructure such as bike racks,improved pedestrian lighting, new walking paths and wayfinding signs to connect parking lots with stores and recreational areas. — This is applicable to Infrastructure Recommendation#9(Vibrancy),Watertown Square. Establish snow clearance and other maintenance procedures for bicycle and sidewalk facilities. Review current snow clearance operations and develop procedures that facilitate winter bike access on primary roads and paths.Some facilities may need to be maintained under separate agreements with private partners for snow clearing.Consult MassDOT's May 2019 resource guides Municipal Resource Guide for Bikeability2;Municipal Resource Guide for Walkability28 and 2015 MassDOT Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design.Guide.29 j Consider publicizing a snow clearance schedule to inform residents of which routes receive prioritized snow clearance. The policy should address snow clearance on Town-owned property,working with the MBTA to provide snow removal at bus stops,and expanding snow removal requirements to residential property owners to maintain sidewalk accessibility in winter months. Highlight accomplishments relating to improving bicycle and pedestrian connectivity and amenities as a result of the Transportation Demand Management(TDM)program,zoning requirements,design guide,site planning K requirements,and parking policies.This will spread community awareness of the Town's efforts and help foster a community culture supportive of walking and biking. Evaluate Parking Requirements(Article VI)of the Watertown Zoning Ordinance to ensure parking regulations are sized right to be consistent with Town goals,to promote alternative modes of transportation,and reduce L drive alone trips. For example,the Zoning Ordinance should provide additional incentives for shared parking among existing businesses in older areas such as Watertown Square and Coolidge Square(see Appendix C for information). Funding Include maintenance and expansion of walking and biking infrastructure in Town's Capital Improvement Program and roadway maintenance funding,particularly for improvements to local roads such as those M identified in Infrastructure Recommendations,Use this Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan to review proposed and relevant town capital projects to identify opportunities to implement the Infrastructure recommendations of this Plan. I 27 https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2019/06/13/2019 Municipal Resource Guide for Bikeabilitv.pdf 28 https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2019/06/13/2019 Municipal Resources Guide-Walkabilitv O.pdf 29 httr)s://www.mass.gov/lists/separated-bike-lane-planning-design-guide 5-8 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Continue to pursue funding for eligible projects through local and state sources including the Complete Streets Program,Chapter 90 funds,development mitigation,Housing Choice Infrastructure grants, MassWorks Infrastructure Program grants,and MAPC technical assistance grants. N For example,the portion of the Watertown Community Path through Watertown Square parallel to Main Street through parking lots could be funded through the Complete Streets Program(Infrastructure Recommendation#11B). MassDOT's Complete Streets funding program accepts Tier 3(construction) project applications twice a year for up to 5 projects and no more than$400,000. Pursue grants to fund connections between streets and off-road paths such as the Charles River Path and 0 Watertown-Cambridge Greenway. MAPC has developed the Trail Implementation Toolkit to empower local planners to expand walking and biking networks.30 Goal: brancy Infrastructure Recommendations-Vibrancy , • # Recommendation 19 Promote new access points to Charles River Path from Arsenal Street through private development projects in easternmost section where it is currently rated as a level of traffic stress 5,the most stressful condition,through wayfinding signage and public education.Also see Policy Recommendations for working with DCR on maintenance and signage on paths. 15 Implement the reconstruction of School Street from Walnut Street/Dexter Avenue to Arsenal Street, designed as part of Athenahealth's mitigation. Highlight this project as part of publicity in Recommendation A. 20 Improve sidewalk and pedestrian crossing infrastructure on Church Street between Summer Street and Main Street. Improving pedestrian conditions will encourage a"park once and walk"environment between the municipal parking lots along Winter Street and businesses on Main Street.This is also a recommendation of the 2019 Watertown Parking Management Plan,which documents that residents are interested in parking off-street and walking to their destinations on Main Street. 9 Improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities in Watertown Square to provide connectivity between major corridors including Main Street,North Beacon Street,Arsenal Street, Mt Auburn Street,Galen Street, Pleasant Street and the Charles River Path.Watertown Square is an important local and regional connection and currently lacks bicycle facilities.Separated bicycle facilities are recommended to reduce bicycle level of traffic stress and provide connections to the off-street paths that exist around Watertown Square(see also Recommendation#11).Watertown Square is a priority location for Bluebikes stations and other future micro-mobility options.See Policy Recommendation related to policies for micromobility, bike parking,and the 2019 Parking Management Plan. 30 htti)s://www.maiDc.org/resource-library/trail-implementation-toolkit/ 5-9 Watertown Chapter 5 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Recommendations Policy Recommendations-Vibrancy Recommendation Programs tContinue to promote site connectivity and bicycle parking on new development sites. Increase wayfinding signage to spread community awareness of bicycle and pedestrian connections and bicycle parking locations. A Improve communication with the community when these enhancements are achieved through local news or social media channels. Create a branded wayfinding program and signed bike routes to facilitate walking and biking in Watertown. Signage may include distances and/or travel time to key destinations for both modes,and in commercial areas B can build on the recommendations for wayfinding signage in the Parking Management Plan. More frequent signage would be expected in areas such as Watertown Square and Coolidge Square,and on routes that serve as connections to off-road regional paths,for example,connecting between Charles River Path and Watertown Square. Policy through site Ian review,consideration of bicycle and pedestrian movement within Continue to encourage, p y sites and in relation to adjacent streets by requiring access points to public streets and community facilities for non-motorized modes. Ensure connectivity between new development and redevelopment projects and existing neighborhoods,e.g. large development sites(see Appendix C for information).Use this Bicycle and C Pedestrian Plan to identify opportunities where private development can assist in implementation of infrastructure improvements. Priority locations are shown in Infrastructure Recommendations#1 Review the Watertown Zoning Ordinance and 2015 Watertown Design Guide to streamline requirements for bicycle and pedestrian access,reduce parking requirements,and encourage mode shift to active modes, D including transit and micro-mobility." Priority locations for bicycle and pedestrian access are included in the Infrastructure Recommendations#1. Build on bicycle parking requirements in the Watertown Zoning Ordinance by developing a Bicycle Parking Guide32 and provisions for public bicycle parking at key destinations. Priority locations for enhanced public bicycle parking,such as large scale covered parking include express MBTA bus stops(coordinate with MBTA), Watertown Yard and Galen Street(see infrastructure recommendations#9(Vibrancy)and#10(Safety)) Watertown Square,Coolidge Square,and at access points to off-road paths. Explore the potential for public- E private partnerships(including maintenance agreements)to allow for private organizations to provide public bicycle parking when feasible.The Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals(APBP)Bicycle Parking Guidelines provides guidance on best practices. Priority locations are#9(vibrancy)and#10(Safety)Infrastructure Recommendations in Watertown Square and on Galen Street,especially in relation to the Watertown Bus Yard. 31 Elements of these individual zones,including provisions for shared parking,reduced parking,unbundled parking, pedestrian and bicycle access and linkages,enhanced bicycle parking and on-site facilities such as showers,incentives for increased density,and public realm enhancements should be considered,along with additional measures that promote active travel 32 City of Cambridge Bicycle Parking Guide https://www.cambrideema.Rov/- /media/Files/CDD/Transportation/Bike/Bicvcle Parking Guide 20130926 2017PictureEdits.odf, it 5-10 N C n. m D 3 � _� ? 3r E ;€�11 1 ----------C BEE°��3 Ifug HU HIMj g£ Ott§ rill Ha 9 S Mij gifflE gaff t pp flgygg a;� §ga. . .Et All! ib Ir Al �_tF�y4Fe4 pF� 83ee�'�nn�gly� � E r _ zszgg - P $g �.� ¢`g gimill fib mom(/� �\ C•i I: „r�(I di ji 5OC � ( 3L �y NMI agfi8e'q- z m - 3 N E \ c _ w E ° E - n a s d 3 E cEE Eww z v c u LL Y -5' d ` t n - n p 8 3m n % a - _ .2 - c m 9f 8EE 01 E 6 . Action Plan This chapter presents an Action Plan to assist in the implementation of the detailed recommendations provided in the prior chapter.The Actions mirror the structure of the recommendations, grouping each by the applicable goal of the Plan to aid in the strategic development of bicycling and walking in Watertown. Within each goal heading,the recommendations are sorted by timeframe from on-going to long-term.The order of magnitude cost of each item is the secondary sort category. I 6-1 Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Goal: Safety Measures of Effectiveness • Reduce Bike Level of Stress on major corridors • Provide ADA compliant crossings • Reduce bicycle and pedestrian crashes • Support Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Evaluate options to improve safety at Common Street north of Orchard Street,such as a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB)at Common Street Short-term at Bellevue or Grenville Road. Coordinate with MassDOT to complete the planned safety improvements for Watertown Street between California Street and the Town/City Line with Short-term QQ Newton. Work with the Town of Belmont to improve crosswalks and bicycle conditions Medium-term QQ on Belmont Street,currently identified as a level of traffic stress 4. Improve safety and connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians into and through Watertown Square. Focus on primary pedestrian and bicycle desire Medium-term QQ lines such as Church Street and Green Street. Integrate the planned improved pedestrian and bicycle facilities on Mt Auburn Street and Cambridge-Watertown Greenway with the intersection Medium-term QQ Q improvements of Belmont Street and Mt Auburn Street in Cambridge. Implement intersection/signal design improvements at Summer Street at ©© Church Street intersection to improve pedestrian safety. Long-term Work with DCR to improve bicycle access to Charles River Path from Grove Street at Greenough Boulevard,currently rated as a level of traffic stress 4. Long-term Q0 Evaluate feasibility of providing bicycle facilities on Orchard Street to reduce ©© level of stress,currently a level 4. Long-term Provide a bicycle facility for the entire length of Main Street to reduce bicycle level of traffic stress,which currently ranges from a level 3 to a level 5.A ©© separated or protected bicycle lane is preferred.Coordinate with MassDOT as Long-term needed. 6-2 Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Policies Action Tinneframe Cost Promote the availability of the Town's on-line work order request system for Short-term maintenance of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Work with Watertown Police Department/Traffic Division and School Department,and Safe Routes to School program to Promote biking and Short-term Q walking by students and staff. - _ I Review and improve crash reporting to better identify factors contributing to Short-term Q serious and fatal bicycle and pedestrian crashes. Work with the Police Department to promote safety for bicyclists and Short-term 0pedestrians. Request data on enforcement. Develop a Vision Zero policy and action plan with the goal of eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries and increasing safety,health,and mobility Medium-term Q for all. Conduct an ADA audit of key corridors in town,working with Council on Aging,Commission on Disabilities,Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee,and the Medium-term QQ Perkins School for the Blind. Address bicycle and pedestrian crash clusters33 by applying for MassDOT Highway Safety Improvement Program(HSIP)funding to evaluate safety Medium-term QQ conditions at identified locations and fund improvements. i i 33 An HSIP cluster is where the total number of"equivalent property damage only"crashes are within the top 5%in the region.https://www.mass.gov/service-details/highway-safety-improvement-program i 6-3 I I I Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Goal: Connectivity Measures of Effectiveness • Reduce Bike Level of Stress on regional routes o Improved connectivity to regional shared use paths o Wayfi6ding signs o Connected network • Improve connections to transit • Improve intersections through bike signals and protected intersection design • Reduce network gaps Infrastructure Action Timeframe Prioritize pedestrian connectivity between neighborhoods and destinations 0 On going such as schools,commercial areas,recreational areas,and bus stops. Develop a prioritized list of neighborhood sidewalk improvements and Q� implement in coordination with Complete Streets Prioritization Plan. On going Implement an accessible pedestrian route between Mt.Auburn Street and Watertown-Cambridge Greenway,with consideration to locations of Short-term 0 assisted/senior housing,schools and areas of dense commercial development. Improve physical access and wayfinding signage between Charles River Short-term QQ Greenway and Howe Park. Improve physical access and wayfinding signage on Bridge Street between Short-term QQ Pleasant Street and California Street. Implement the missing links of the Watertown Community Path: • Arsenal Street to Mount Auburn Street via Taylor Street QQ • Mount Auburn Street to Watertown Linear Park via parking lots Short-term to • Watertown Linear Park to Watertown Community Path segment on ©© Howard Street Provide alternative east-west bike route to the Charles River Path in western Medium term 0 0 half of Watertown. 6-4 Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Improve pedestrian conditions in west Watertown in order to create an accessible pedestrian route between schools and senior/assisted living Medium-term 00 housing and Main Street(bus connections)and Charles River Path. Reduce level of bicycle stress on Walnut Street(currently Level 3),to provide connection between Mt Auburn Street and Arsenal Street,and Medium-term QQ Cambridge/Watertown Greenway. Implement north-south connections in Watertown,building on planned sidewalk reconstruction and existing raised intersections,to improve access �Q Q across Town between Belmont Street and Charles River Path, Main Street, Long-term Mount Auburn Street, and Arsenal Street. Policies Action Timeframe cost Integrate maintenance of on-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities into routine street maintenance. Maintain and update amenities like bike racks, Short-term Q benches and shelters. Develop maintenance procedures,responsible party,and tracking for off- Short-term Q street bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Work with residents and neighborhood associations,business groups,and Short-term the MBTA to provide routine snow clearance in key destinations Coordinate with DCR on better maintenance of Charles River Path and Short-term Q associated connections. Advocate to DCR to improve the condition of Charles River Path and advocate Short-term Q for Little Greenough improvements. 6-5 Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Goal: Culture Measures of Effectiveness • Reduce reliance on vehicular trips • Increase bicycle accommodations • Implement Complete Streets projects • Increase awareness of transportation options Infrastructure See action items in the policies section. Policies Action • Enforcement Work with groups including the Watertown Transportation Management Association(TMA), MassBike,and Watertown Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee On-going 0 to promote bicycling town-wide. Evaluate and communicate progress on this Plan on an annual basis.Create a On-going 0 Working Group to develop metrics to measure success. Programs Highlight and publicize successes of the Watertown Transportation Demand On-going 0 Management(TDM). Work with community and neighborhood groups to host town-wide events to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety and promote safe neighborhood streets On-going for children. Develop active transportation plans for Watertown schools. On-going 000 Short to Identify additional locations for Bluebike stations and promote the program. Long-term to 000 •• 16 Develop policy for new micromobility options in Watertown,such as e-bikes and Short-term e-scooters. Implement recommendations from the 2019 Parking Management Plan for 0 Watertown Square and Coolidge Square to reduce or eliminate parking Short to to requirements in zoning and create a Parking Benefit District to invest in multi- Long-term ©©0 modal infrastructure. 6-6 ` Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Establish snow clearance and other maintenance procedures for bicycle and Medium-term QQ sidewalk facilities. Funding Include walking and biking infrastructure in Town's Capital Improvement Ongoing 0 Program and roadway maintenance funding. Continue to pursue funding for eligible projects through local and state sources. Medium-term 00 Pursue grants to fund connections between streets and off-road paths. Medium-term Ql� 6-7 Watertown Chapter 6 BICYCLE&PEDESTRIAN PLAN Action Plan Goal: Vibrancy Measures of Effectiveness • Reduce reliance on parking for travel • Promote access to public land through private development • Incorporate streetscape improvements into private development Infrastructure Promote new access points to Charles River Path from Arsenal Street Short-term through private development projects. Implement the reconstruction of School Street from Walnut ©© Short-term Street/Dexter Avenue to Arsenal Street. Improve sidewalk and pedestrian crossing infrastructure on Church ©© Medium-term Street between Summer Street and Main Street. Improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities in Watertown Square and QQ� Coolidge Square,such as bike racks and benches. Long-term Policies Programs Continue to promote site connectivity and bicycle parking on new Short-term 0 development sites. Identify connections with wayfinding signs. Create a branded wayfinding program and signed bike routes to facilitate ©� walking and biking in Watertown. Short-term Use the site plan review process to promote bicycle and pedestrian 0 On-going movement within a site and in relation to adjacent streets. Perform a comprehensive review of the Watertown Zoning Ordinance and 2015 Watertown Design Guide to coordinate and streamline requirements for improving bicycle and pedestrian access, reducing Medium-term QQ parking requirements, and encouraging mode shift to active modes, including transit and micro-mobility. Build on bicycle parking requirements in the Watertown Zoning Ordinance by developing a Bicycle Parking Guide and provisions for public Medium-term 00 bicycle parking at key destinations. 6-8