Explanation
1. BACKGROUND
The purpose of this legislation is to continue the development of policy, rules, and regulations pertaining to bicycling. This legislation furthers the consideration of an evolving understanding of complete streets, the importance of alternate means of transportation, the promotion of better community health, and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. This legislation further establishes and clarifies requirements for bikeways and sidewalks, including traffic laws intended to make Columbus roadways safer for all users, particularly pedestrians and bicyclists.
In addition, this legislation updates city code in order to harmonize city traffic ordinances with the changes made to Title 45 of the Ohio Revised Code as a result of the passage of House Bill 349 which went into effect on April 20, 2012; House Bill 51 which went into effect on July 1, 2013; House Bill 59 which went into effect on July 1, 2013; Senate Bill 194 which went will go into effect on June 2, 2014; and House Bill 145 which is expected to go into effect later in 2014. This legislation also promotes parking in the City of Columbus by correcting conflicting language in the Parking Code, removes antiquated language from the Traffic Code, and adds gender inclusive language in portions of the Traffic Code.
This legislation is expected to result in safer roadways and more bicycle facilities to be completed in the City of Columbus.
On December 6, 1993, Columbus City Council adopted the Columbus Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance 2515-93.) The plan as adopted provides specific recommendations for adequate pedestrian facilities for all existing, expanded, and new developments regardless of the type of use, intensity, or zoning classification. The plan also recommends that the Department of Public Service develop a bikeways plan for the City of Columbus.
On November 29, 2007, Columbus City Council member Maryellen O'Shaughnessy held a public meeting where the De...
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