New corridor links pedestrians to public transportation

An 84-mile corridor from Aspen to Parachute now integrates public transportation with cyclists and pedestrians.

The Regional Bicycle, Pedestrian & Transit Access Plan — which was crafted by Roaring Fork Transportation Authority and Garfield, Pitkin and Eagle counties — recently was completed.

“An example of an integrated system is enabling a bus rider to exit a bus, get on a bicycle at the station, ride down the Rio Grande Trail to one of the towns and follow wayfinding signs to downtown amenities,” said Jason White, RFTA project manager.

RFTA was awarded a federal grant in 2014 to conduct the plan. Garfield, Pitkin and Eagle counties provided matching funds.

High-priority projects for the region included the Lower Valley Trail in Garfield County, the Crystal Valley Trail in Pitkin County and a new bicycle-pedestrian bridge over the Roaring Fork River linking Crown Mountain Park to the Rio Grande Trail in Eagle County.

To access the entire plan, visit http://www.rfta.com.